Delicious Philly Cheesesteak Skillet with Ground Beef: A Savory Keto and Low-Carb Dinner

Introduction to Philly Cheesesteak Skillet with Ground Beef

Looking for a hearty and satisfying dinner that’s both low-carb and flavorful? This Philly Cheesesteak Skillet with Ground Beef is the perfect solution! Packed with savory ground beef, peppers, onions, and plenty of melted cheese, this recipe delivers all the deliciousness of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a healthier, easy-to-make skillet. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for easy weeknight dinners, or simply craving a savory comfort meal, this dish checks all the boxes.

The best part? It’s not only low in carbs but also customizable, making it perfect for various dietary needs like keto, Optavia-approved meals, and bariatric-friendly recipes. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious Philly cheesesteak skillet and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and nutritious!

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Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Skillet with Ground Beef

To make this savory dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. You can easily swap out some of the ingredients for keto-friendly or low-carb options as needed.

• 1 lb ground beef (lean beef works best, but feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef and vegetables)
• 1 large onion, sliced (adds sweetness to balance the savory)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (a classic Philly cheesesteak addition)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional, but adds great texture and flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (for extra aromatic flavor)
• 1/2 cup beef broth (or water, for a lighter option)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (for a bit of herby flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (for seasoning)
• 1 1/2 cups provolone cheese, shredded (you can substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste or cheddar for a sharper flavor)
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream (to make the dish creamy; optional for a richer sauce)
• Salt to taste (adjust based on your dietary needs)

This list features ingredients that are compatible with keto, low-carb, and bariatric-friendly diets. For additional low-carb meal ideas, feel free to check out our Easy Keto Meals with Ground Beef.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Skillet with Ground Beef

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious Philly cheesesteak skillet:

1. Cook the ground beef: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef to the pan. Break up the meat with a spoon or spatula and cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Add the vegetables: Once the beef is browned, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the onions become translucent.
3. Season the mixture: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and ground black pepper. Allow the garlic to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
4. Make it cheesy: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded provolone cheese and heavy cream (if using) to the skillet. Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the mixture is creamy and cohesive.
5. Serve and enjoy: Taste the skillet and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. Serve hot and garnish with extra fresh herbs or more cheese if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with a light salad or cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.

For a lighter and healthier alternative, consider checking out our Savory Keto Meals for more options.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Skillet turns out perfectly, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcooking the beef: Ground beef cooks quickly, so be sure to monitor it while browning. Overcooking can make it tough and dry. Remove it from the heat as soon as it’s browned.
2. Not draining excess fat: If your ground beef is fatty, make sure to drain off the excess fat before adding the vegetables. This will help keep the dish from becoming greasy.
3. Not using enough cheese: Cheese is the star of this dish! Make sure to use enough shredded cheese for that creamy, gooey texture that makes a Philly cheesesteak so special.
4. Skipping the seasoning: While the beef and cheese provide a lot of flavor, the vegetables and seasonings are equally important. Don’t forget the garlic, oregano, and pepper to round out the dish.

Healthy Variations and Swaps

If you’re looking to customize your Philly Cheesesteak Skillet, here are some healthy swaps and variations you can try:

• Low-Carb or Keto: Stick with lean ground beef, use full-fat cheese, and add more low-carb vegetables like spinach or zucchini. Skip the heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version and opt for cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a healthier side.
• Optavia Approved: Ensure that you are using Optavia-approved ingredients, such as leaner ground beef, and limit the use of cheese to stay within your daily nutritional guidelines.
• Bariatric-Friendly: Use lean ground turkey or chicken and skip the heavy cream to make the dish lighter while still keeping it flavorful. Consider reducing the cheese to a smaller amount for a satisfying but healthy meal.

For more inspiration, check out our Healthy Beef Lunch Ideas.

Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

While the Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is already a complete meal on its own, here are some ways you can elevate it:

• Salad: Pair your skillet with a fresh salad, such as a Greek Salad, for added crunch and nutrition.
• Low-Carb Side: Serve with a side of cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables to keep the meal low-carb and filling.
• Buns: For a non-keto option, you could serve the skillet in a low-carb wrap or on a whole-grain bun.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore the sauce’s consistency.

For freezing, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the skillet or microwave.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s a list of kitchen tools you’ll need to make this dish:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Knife and chopping board for slicing vegetables
• Spatula or spoon for stirring
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
• Small bowl for mixing beef broth and seasoning

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Philly Cheesesteak Skillet FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
  Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter version of this dish. You can still enjoy the delicious cheesesteak flavors with less fat.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prep and cook the dish ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a little extra broth to rehydrate the dish.
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
  Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Just store individual portions in airtight containers, and you’ll have a tasty, easy-to-reheat meal ready for the week.

Conclusion

This Philly Cheesesteak Skillet with Ground Beef is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a flavorful, low-carb, and keto-friendly dinner. It’s easy to make, customizable to suit various dietary needs, and packed with savory ingredients that will satisfy your cheesesteak cravings without the carbs.

Try it today and share your results! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more healthy and easy recipes. For other low-carb meal ideas, be sure to explore our Savory Keto Meals and Healthy Beef Recipes.

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