Cheesy Beef & Pepper Bake

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Cheesy Beef & Pepper Bake – Full Recipe Profile

Introduction

If a recipe earns a spot in your weekly rotation, you know it’s something special. This Cheesy Beef & Pepper Bake delivers all the satisfying flavors of a Philly cheesesteak—tender ground beef, caramelized onions, sweet bell peppers, and gooey provolone—but with a low-carb, high-protein twist. Quick, comforting, and deeply flavorful, it’s the perfect one-pan wonder for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep.

Origin and Cultural Significance

This dish draws its inspiration from the Philly cheesesteak, a beloved American classic created in Philadelphia in the early 20th century. Traditionally served in hoagie rolls with thinly sliced beef and melted cheese, the cheesesteak has become a symbol of East Coast comfort food.
The Cheesy Beef & Pepper Bake transforms that iconic flavor into a casserole-style dish, removing the bread while keeping every bit of savory, cheesy satisfaction—ideal for keto, gluten-free, or modern low-carb lifestyles.

Ingredients & Quantities

For the Beef & Pepper Base

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the Cheesy Layer

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 6–8 slices provolone cheese
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened

Optional Additions

  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (for heat)
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan
  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
  • Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative

Tips for Success

  • Slice vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
  • Brown the beef well—this adds caramelized flavor and prevents a watery casserole.
  • Drain excess fat after browning to keep the texture rich, not greasy.
  • Use provolone on top for that classic cheesesteak melt.
  • Let it rest 5 minutes after baking so it sets for clean slices.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onions and bell peppers; cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
  3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
  4. Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until fully browned.
  5. Season: Add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
  6. Blend in cream cheese: Stir in the cream cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Assemble: Transfer mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella, then lay provolone slices on top.
  8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Rest & serve: Let it sit 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish if desired.

Description

This casserole is rich, savory, and deeply comforting. Tender ground beef mingles with sweet peppers and onions, all bound together with a velvety cream-cheese base. The top layer of mozzarella and provolone melts into a golden, bubbling blanket of cheesy goodness. Every bite brings warm, homestyle flavors reminiscent of a classic cheesesteak—without the bread weighing you down.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, 6 servings)

  • Calories: 340
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Net Carbs: 5 g
  • Fat: 23 g
  • Sugar: 3 g

(Nutrition varies with ingredient brands and optional additions.)

Conclusion

The Cheesy Beef & Pepper Bake brings together classic American comfort flavors and modern dietary needs, offering a dish that feels indulgent but fits into low-carb, high-protein, or keto-style eating. It’s simple, satisfying, and versatile for families and solo meals alike.

Recommendation

Serve with:

  • A fresh green salad
  • Roasted broccoli
  • Cauliflower rice
  • Low-carb garlic bread

For meal prep, divide into containers—it reheats beautifully and keeps its creamy texture.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Healthy eating doesn’t have to sacrifice comfort. This dish proves you can enjoy melty cheese, hearty beef, and rich flavor while still nourishing your body. By focusing on whole ingredients, balanced fats, and high-quality proteins, you create a meal that feels like comfort food yet supports your health goals.

Savor every bite—mindfully, joyfully, and guilt-free.

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