High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Delight

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you craving a cheesy, hearty meal that fits your protein goals? Let me introduce you to the High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Casserole Delight. This dish combines lean meats, fresh veggies, and creamy goodness in one simple bake. It’s a tasty way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, but with a healthy twist. Ready to dive into a cooking adventure? Let’s get started on this delicious recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. High in Protein: This casserole is packed with protein-rich ingredients like lean ground beef or chicken and Greek yogurt, making it a satisfying meal for anyone looking to boost their protein intake.
  2. Comfort Food Twist: Combining the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the convenience of a casserole creates a hearty dish that delivers both nostalgia and comfort in every bite.
  3. Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly and easily, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With just one skillet and a baking dish, cleanup is a breeze!
  4. Versatile Ingredients: You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the protein, making it a flexible dish that can cater to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 lb lean ground beef or chicken

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 1 green bell pepper, diced

– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup low-fat cream cheese

– 1 cup Greek yogurt

– 2 cups cooked quinoa

– 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

This high-protein Philly cheesesteak casserole uses simple ingredients to pack a flavorful punch. I love starting with lean ground beef or chicken because it keeps the dish healthy and tasty. Diced onion and green bell pepper add sweetness and crunch.

Sliced mushrooms bring an earthy flavor, while minced garlic gives it a nice kick. Low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt make the dish creamy without adding too many calories. I use cooked quinoa for a protein boost and a lovely texture.

Shredded provolone cheese finishes this dish beautifully. It melts to create a gooey, comforting layer. I also add Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavors, along with salt and pepper for seasoning. A drizzle of olive oil helps to sauté the veggies perfectly.

To bring it all together, I garnish with fresh parsley. It adds a pop of color and freshness. Each ingredient plays a role in making this casserole both tasty and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Use olive oil or cooking spray to keep it non-stick.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them soft and fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for another 3 minutes. The mushrooms should release their juices and become tender.

Cook the Protein

Now, add the lean ground beef or chicken to the skillet. Cook the meat until it turns brown, breaking it into small pieces. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Season the mixture with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Taste it to ensure the flavors are just right.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, low-fat cream cheese, and Greek yogurt. Blend until it forms a smooth mixture. Then, add the sautéed meat and vegetable mix to the bowl. Stir gently until everything is well combined.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it evenly for uniform baking. Top with shredded provolone cheese. Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Casserole

To ensure even cooking, spread the mixture in the baking dish evenly. This helps the heat reach all areas. Stir the casserole halfway through baking for best results. For cheese melting, use shredded provolone. Shredded cheese melts faster and gives a nice texture. Sprinkle it on top just before baking for that perfect golden finish.

Healthier Substitutions

You can try alternative proteins like turkey or plant-based options. Ground turkey lowers fat while packing protein. To add fresh vegetables, consider spinach or zucchini. These options boost flavor and nutrition. They also add color, making your dish more appealing.

Presentation Tips

Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a rustic feel. It enhances the homey vibe of the meal. You can also add garnishes like chopped parsley for a fresh touch. If you want some spice, drizzle sriracha or hot sauce on individual plates. This adds fun and excitement to each serving!

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or chicken to keep the casserole healthier without sacrificing flavor.
  2. Cook Quinoa Properly: Ensure the quinoa is fully cooked and fluffed before mixing it into the casserole for the best texture.
  3. Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
  4. Let it Rest: After baking, allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version of this casserole, you can use plant-based protein. Options like lentils or tempeh work well. You can also add more vegetables. Try zucchini, spinach, or even eggplant for added flavor and nutrition. These swaps keep the dish hearty and satisfying without meat.

Spicy Twist

If you like things hot, add jalapeños or hot sauce. Just chop jalapeños and mix them into the meat and veggie mix. You can also drizzle hot sauce on top before serving. This addition gives the dish a nice kick and makes it extra flavorful.

Low-Carb Version

To make a low-carb version, you can substitute quinoa with cauliflower rice. This keeps the dish light and cuts down on carbs. Also, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives. There are many great options on the market that melt well. These changes make the casserole friendly for those watching their carb intake.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftover high-protein Philly cheesesteak casserole, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. Wrapped tightly, it can stay good for about 2 to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to enjoy the casserole again, use the oven for reheating. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s hot throughout. This method helps keep the cheese melty and the texture nice. You can also use the microwave, but it may change the texture. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it even. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses. Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda work well too. Each cheese adds a unique flavor. If you want a sharper taste, try sharp cheddar. For a creamier texture, mozzarella is perfect. Always choose a cheese that melts well to get that tasty, gooey texture.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, swap cooked quinoa for gluten-free grains. You can use brown rice or gluten-free pasta. Also, check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options, so read the label. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal.

What can I serve with a Philly Cheesesteak Casserole?

You can serve this casserole with many sides. A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch. Steamed vegetables are great for extra nutrients. You could also try garlic bread for a tasty pairing. For a fun twist, serve with potato chips or fries on the side. Enjoy experimenting with these options!

This blog post covered a flavorful Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. We listed the essential ingredients, shared easy step-by-step instructions, and offered tips for making the best dish. You can even try variations, like vegetarian or spicy options. Remember, proper storage keeps leftovers tasty. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides for a full meal. With these ideas, you’ll impress everyone at the table and enjoy a hearty, healthy mea

- 1 lb lean ground beef or chicken - 1 medium onion, diced - 1 green bell pepper, diced - 1 cup mushrooms, sliced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup low-fat cream cheese - 1 cup Greek yogurt - 2 cups cooked quinoa - 1 cup shredded provolone cheese - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish This high-protein Philly cheesesteak casserole uses simple ingredients to pack a flavorful punch. I love starting with lean ground beef or chicken because it keeps the dish healthy and tasty. Diced onion and green bell pepper add sweetness and crunch. Sliced mushrooms bring an earthy flavor, while minced garlic gives it a nice kick. Low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt make the dish creamy without adding too many calories. I use cooked quinoa for a protein boost and a lovely texture. Shredded provolone cheese finishes this dish beautifully. It melts to create a gooey, comforting layer. I also add Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavors, along with salt and pepper for seasoning. A drizzle of olive oil helps to sauté the veggies perfectly. To bring it all together, I garnish with fresh parsley. It adds a pop of color and freshness. Each ingredient plays a role in making this casserole both tasty and satisfying. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Use olive oil or cooking spray to keep it non-stick. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them soft and fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for another 3 minutes. The mushrooms should release their juices and become tender. Now, add the lean ground beef or chicken to the skillet. Cook the meat until it turns brown, breaking it into small pieces. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Season the mixture with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Taste it to ensure the flavors are just right. In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, low-fat cream cheese, and Greek yogurt. Blend until it forms a smooth mixture. Then, add the sautéed meat and vegetable mix to the bowl. Stir gently until everything is well combined. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it evenly for uniform baking. Top with shredded provolone cheese. Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. To ensure even cooking, spread the mixture in the baking dish evenly. This helps the heat reach all areas. Stir the casserole halfway through baking for best results. For cheese melting, use shredded provolone. Shredded cheese melts faster and gives a nice texture. Sprinkle it on top just before baking for that perfect golden finish. You can try alternative proteins like turkey or plant-based options. Ground turkey lowers fat while packing protein. To add fresh vegetables, consider spinach or zucchini. These options boost flavor and nutrition. They also add color, making your dish more appealing. Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a rustic feel. It enhances the homey vibe of the meal. You can also add garnishes like chopped parsley for a fresh touch. If you want some spice, drizzle sriracha or hot sauce on individual plates. This adds fun and excitement to each serving! Pro Tips Choose the Right Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or chicken to keep the casserole healthier without sacrificing flavor. Cook Quinoa Properly: Ensure the quinoa is fully cooked and fluffed before mixing it into the casserole for the best texture. Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Let it Rest: After baking, allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. {{image_4}} For a vegetarian version of this casserole, you can use plant-based protein. Options like lentils or tempeh work well. You can also add more vegetables. Try zucchini, spinach, or even eggplant for added flavor and nutrition. These swaps keep the dish hearty and satisfying without meat. If you like things hot, add jalapeños or hot sauce. Just chop jalapeños and mix them into the meat and veggie mix. You can also drizzle hot sauce on top before serving. This addition gives the dish a nice kick and makes it extra flavorful. To make a low-carb version, you can substitute quinoa with cauliflower rice. This keeps the dish light and cuts down on carbs. Also, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives. There are many great options on the market that melt well. These changes make the casserole friendly for those watching their carb intake. To store leftover high-protein Philly cheesesteak casserole, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. Wrapped tightly, it can stay good for about 2 to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy the casserole again, use the oven for reheating. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it's hot throughout. This method helps keep the cheese melty and the texture nice. You can also use the microwave, but it may change the texture. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it even. Enjoy your delicious leftovers! Yes, you can use other cheeses. Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda work well too. Each cheese adds a unique flavor. If you want a sharper taste, try sharp cheddar. For a creamier texture, mozzarella is perfect. Always choose a cheese that melts well to get that tasty, gooey texture. To make this casserole gluten-free, swap cooked quinoa for gluten-free grains. You can use brown rice or gluten-free pasta. Also, check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options, so read the label. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal. You can serve this casserole with many sides. A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch. Steamed vegetables are great for extra nutrients. You could also try garlic bread for a tasty pairing. For a fun twist, serve with potato chips or fries on the side. Enjoy experimenting with these options! This blog post covered a flavorful Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. We listed the essential ingredients, shared easy step-by-step instructions, and offered tips for making the best dish. You can even try variations, like vegetarian or spicy options. Remember, proper storage keeps leftovers tasty. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides for a full meal. With these ideas, you’ll impress everyone at the table and enjoy a hearty, healthy meal.

High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

A hearty and nutritious casserole packed with protein from lean meat, quinoa, and cheese.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef or chicken
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-fat cream cheese
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  • In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
  • Next, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 3 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their juices and become tender.
  • Incorporate the ground beef or chicken into the skillet. Cook the meat until it is thoroughly browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season the mixture with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, low-fat cream cheese, and Greek yogurt. Blend these ingredients until they form a smooth and creamy mixture.
  • Add the sautéed meat and vegetable medley to the bowl with the quinoa mixture. Stir gently until all components are well incorporated and evenly combined.
  • Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking. Top the casserole generously with shredded provolone cheese for a delicious cheesy finish.
  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
  • Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a rustic touch. For those who appreciate a bit of spice, drizzle a touch of sriracha or hot sauce over individual portions before serving. Enjoy!
Keyword casserole, cheesesteak, high-protein

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?