Philly Cheesesteak Casserole: A Weight Watchers Low-Point Delight

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a comforting dish that captures the essence of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich in a hearty, satisfying casserole form. This version has been thoughtfully adapted to fit within the Weight Watchers framework, allowing you to indulge in this savory favorite without compromising your healthy eating goals. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe, including ingredients, preparation instructions, nutritional information, and tips for success.

Ingredients

To create a delicious and low-point Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional, but adds great flavor)
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup reduced-fat provolone cheese, shredded (or any cheese of your choice)

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Additional cheese for topping

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Casserole dish (about 9×13 inches)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Oven mitts

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Below is the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

  • Calories: 270
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Weight Watchers SmartPoints: 7 points per serving

(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

  1. Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by collecting all your ingredients and kitchen tools. This organization will streamline the cooking process and help ensure that you don’t miss any steps.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial for ensuring even cooking and achieving the best texture for your casserole.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

  1. Add Onions and Peppers: To the skillet, add 1 diced onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 1 diced red bell pepper. If using, add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms as well. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 5: Incorporate Seasonings

  1. Add Seasonings: Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Adjust salt to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Mix in Cauliflower Rice

  1. Add Cauliflower Rice: Stir in 2 cups of cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen). This adds volume to the casserole without significantly increasing the calorie count. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.

Step 7: Prepare the Casserole Dish

  1. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish.

Step 8: Add Beef Broth

  1. Add Broth: Pour 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth over the mixture. This will help keep the casserole moist and flavorful as it bakes.

Step 9: Add Cheese

  1. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of reduced-fat provolone cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. You can adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference, keeping in mind the impact on points.

Step 10: Bake the Casserole

  1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

  1. Let Cool: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.

Step 12: Garnish (Optional)

  1. Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Choose Lean Meat: Opting for lean ground beef or turkey can significantly reduce the fat content of this dish. Ground chicken is another great alternative.
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or even broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
  • Meal Prep: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Leftover Ideas: Any leftovers can be repurposed as a filling for wraps or served over a salad for a quick and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

This Weight Watchers-friendly Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of a cheesesteak sandwich in a healthier format. With only 7 SmartPoints per serving, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish that fits seamlessly into your weight loss journey.

The combination of lean protein, colorful vegetables, and gooey cheese creates a comforting casserole that the whole family will love. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy your flavorful, low-point Philly Cheesesteak Casserole!