Philly Cheese Beef Skillet

This Philly Cheese Beef Skillet is a delightful twist on the classic cheesesteak, combining the rich flavors of ground beef and melted cheese in a quick and easy dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this meal brings comfort food to your table in under 30 minutes. Its unique blend of ingredients makes it a family favorite, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and gooey provolone cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it on its own or with a side salad for a complete meal that fits various occasions.
• Keto-Friendly: With low carbohydrates and high protein, this recipe aligns perfectly with keto diets.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this skillet meal won’t break the bank.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: This is crucial for browning the beef evenly and sautéing the vegetables to perfection.
• Spatula: Use this tool for easy flipping and mixing of ingredients without damaging them.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps you chop vegetables quickly and safely.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.

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Ingredients

For the Beef Skillet

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 2 Tbsp Butter
• 2 Tbsp Heavy Cream
• 1 Tbsp Low Carb Tomato Sauce
• 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 Tbsp Fresh Basil
• 1 Green Pepper
• 1/2 a White Onion
• 6 Slices Provolone Cheese
• Salt & Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Philly Cheese Beef Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by seasoning the ground beef with salt and pepper. Heat the large skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned beef. Cook until browned. Once fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Slice the onion and green pepper while the beef cools. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet with the leftover drippings. Add sliced onion and green pepper to the pan. Fry until they are nicely browned (about 4 minutes). Set aside with the cooked beef.

Step 3: Create Sauce Mixture

Preheat your oven on broil for later use. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic and basil. Allow it to brown for about 1 minute. Then stir in tomato sauce, heavy cream, and garlic powder. Let it simmer for 1 – 2 minutes until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir until all beef is coated in the sauce mixture. Add back in your sautéed peppers and onions, mixing everything together nicely.

Step 5: Melt Cheese

Cover your mixture with provolone slices evenly across the top. Place in your preheated oven on broil for about 3 – 4 minutes or until cheese reaches your desired meltiness.

Enjoy this delightful Philly Cheese Beef Skillet as a quick dinner option that brings comfort food into your home!

How to Serve Philly Cheese Beef Skillet

This Philly Cheese Beef Skillet is versatile and can be served in various ways to please your family. You can elevate your meal with different sides or toppings to create a delightful dining experience.

With Fresh Veggies

• Sliced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a juicy crunch that complements the beef.
• Crispy Lettuce: A bed of crispy lettuce can serve as a base, adding freshness and texture.

On Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative provides a great base that soaks up the flavors of the beef skillet while keeping the dish gluten-free.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the beef mixture for a fun and healthy twist on traditional sandwiches.

With Avocado Slices

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings richness to the dish and balances the savory flavors of the skillet.

How to Perfect Philly Cheese Beef Skillet

To make your Philly Cheese Beef Skillet even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ground Beef: Choose ground beef with a good fat content (about 80/20) for moisture and flavor.
• Add More Veggies: Enhance nutrition by including mushrooms or zucchini; they cook quickly and add depth to the dish.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese varieties like mozzarella or cheddar for unique flavor profiles.
• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning; adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
• Broil for Perfect Melt: Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling; it can melt quickly, achieving that perfect gooey texture.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheese Beef Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Philly Cheese Beef Skillet enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that pairs well with beef.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutritional value without overpowering the main dish.
3. Zucchini Noodles: These provide a fun, low-carb substitute for pasta while adding flavor and texture.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for a delightful, crunchy side.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with cucumbers, carrots, and a light vinaigrette complements the hearty skillet perfectly.
6. Cheesy Cauliflower Bake: This rich side is indulgent yet keto-friendly, matching well with the savory flavors of the skillet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Philly Cheese Beef Skillet, it’s easy to make some common errors that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not seasoning enough: Failing to season the beef properly can lead to a bland dish. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking and taste as you go.

• Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook the onions and peppers too long, they can become mushy. Aim for a crisp-tender texture by sautéing them just until browned.

• Skipping the broil step: Broiling is key to achieving that melty cheese topping. Don’t skip this step; it adds a wonderful finish to your Philly Cheese Beef Skillet.

• Using low-quality cheese: The type of cheese you use can greatly affect the taste. Opt for good-quality provolone for the best melt and flavor.

• Not letting it simmer: Skipping the simmering step can cause flavors not to meld together properly. Allowing it to simmer enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Philly Cheese Beef Skillet

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Philly Cheese Beef Skillet

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil, reheating for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe containers on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed through (about 2-3 minutes).

• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking (about 5-7 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Philly Cheese Beef Skillet:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work well in this recipe while keeping it leaner.

What can I serve with Philly Cheese Beef Skillet?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or low-carb bread options for scooping.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

How do I customize my Philly Cheese Beef Skillet?

Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also try different cheese varieties for unique flavors!

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe is not inherently spicy; however, you can add jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer some heat!

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The total time from prep to plate is about 20 minutes, making it a quick meal option!

Final Thoughts

The Philly Cheese Beef Skillet is a delightful blend of flavors that combines ease with deliciousness. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give it a try today—you won’t be disappointed!