This Philly Cheese Beef Skillet is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its delightful combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and melty provolone cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a hearty meal to impress guests, this skillet recipe is versatile and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this cheesy and flavorful dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with different vegetables or cheeses to suit your taste.
- Low Carb & Keto-Friendly: Enjoy a delicious meal without compromising your diet goals.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools for making the Philly Cheese Beef Skillet. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of your ingredients.
- Spatula: Helps in mixing and flipping ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.

Ingredients
To make this delicious Philly Cheese Beef Skillet, you will need the following 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: Cook the Ground Beef
- Season the ground beef with salt and pepper.
- Brown it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Slice the onion and green pepper.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet with beef drippings.
- Fry the onion and peppers until browned (about 4 minutes).
- Set aside with cooked ground beef.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Preheat your oven on broil.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter, minced garlic, and basil; let brown for 1 minute.
- Add tomato sauce, heavy cream, and garlic powder; stir until combined.
- Let simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
- Return cooked ground beef to the skillet; stir until well coated.
- Mix in sautéed peppers and onions until combined.
- Cover with provolone slices; place in oven on broil for 3-4 minutes or until cheese melts to desired consistency.
Enjoy your delightful Philly Cheese Beef Skillet!
How to Serve Philly Cheese Beef Skillet
Serving Philly Cheese Beef Skillet is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various tastes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Serve with Fresh Salad
- A crisp side salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the skillet. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Accompany with Cauliflower Rice
- For a low-carb option, serve the skillet over cauliflower rice. It absorbs the flavors beautifully and adds extra texture.
Pair with Zucchini Noodles
- Zucchini noodles are another excellent choice for a gluten-free twist. They add a lovely crunch and soak up the savory sauce wonderfully.
Top with Avocado Slices
- Slices of creamy avocado can enhance the dish. Their mild flavor complements the beef and cheese perfectly.
Serve in Lettuce Wraps
- For a fun and interactive meal, serve the mixture in large lettuce leaves. Guests can customize their wraps with additional toppings.
Add Pickled Jalapeños
- If you enjoy some heat, consider adding pickled jalapeños on top. They provide an extra kick that pairs well with the cheesy beef.
How to Perfect Philly Cheese Beef Skillet
Perfecting your Philly Cheese Beef Skillet can elevate it from good to great. Here are some helpful tips for achieving culinary excellence.
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for better flavor and texture. It helps keep the dish hearty without excessive grease.
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Freshly chopped onions and peppers will enhance the dish’s taste and provide a nice crunch.
- Experiment with Cheese: While provolone is classic, try mixing in mozzarella or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak garlic powder or add spices like paprika for additional depth.
- Let it Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer longer if time permits; this melds the flavors together beautifully.
- Garnish Creatively: Consider topping your skillet with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheese Beef Skillet
To complement your Philly Cheese Beef Skillet, choose side dishes that balance its richness while enhancing your meal experience.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower infused with garlic offers a comforting low-carb alternative.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the savory beef.
- Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds bring crunch and freshness to your table.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Flavorful stuffed bell peppers can serve as a hearty side, packed with grains or veggies.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar balances out the richness of the skillet nicely.
- Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy baked sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory beef perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, making it an excellent counterpoint to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness, enhancing your overall meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and the final taste of your Philly Cheese Beef Skillet. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season with salt and pepper before cooking for a more robust taste.
- Overcooking vegetables: If you cook the onions and peppers too long, they may become mushy. Aim for a nice brown color while keeping them tender-crisp.
- Using low-quality cheese: Subpar cheese can affect the dish’s creaminess and flavor. Opt for high-quality provolone cheese for the best melt and taste.
- Neglecting to preheat the broiler: Not preheating can result in uneven melting of the cheese. Always broil once your oven is fully preheated to achieve that perfect gooey top.
- Rushing the simmering process: Skipping or shortening the simmer time can prevent flavors from developing. Letting the sauce simmer allows everything to meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Philly Cheese Beef Skillet
- Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Philly Cheese Beef Skillet
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Philly Cheese Beef Skillet:
What ingredients do I need for Philly Cheese Beef Skillet?
You will need ground beef, butter, heavy cream, low carb tomato sauce, garlic powder, fresh basil, green pepper, white onion, provolone cheese, salt, and pepper.
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors or textures.
Is Philly Cheese Beef Skillet gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free ingredients like low carb tomato sauce and check labels on all products used.
How do I customize my Philly Cheese Beef Skillet?
Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients. You could also try different cheeses based on your preference!
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheese Beef Skillet is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize it with different vegetables or cheeses according to your preferences. Give it a try—your family will love this delicious twist on classic comfort food!
Philly Cheese Beef Skillet
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Philly Cheese Beef Skillet, a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. With a rich blend of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and melty provolone cheese, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. It takes under 30 minutes to prepare, making it an excellent option for both family dinners and entertaining guests. Customize your skillet with your favorite veggies or sprinkle in different cheeses to create a meal that suits everyone’s tastes. Enjoy this comforting and hearty dish while keeping it low carb and keto-friendly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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 White Onion
- 6 Slices Provolone Cheese
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Season ground beef with salt and pepper. Brown it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Slice onion and green pepper. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter with beef drippings and sauté onions and peppers until browned (about 4 minutes). Set aside with cooked beef.
- Preheat oven on broil. In the skillet, add remaining butter, minced garlic, and basil; brown for 1 minute. Stir in tomato sauce, heavy cream, and garlic powder; simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Return cooked beef to the skillet, mix in sautéed vegetables until combined. Cover with provolone slices and broil for about 3-4 minutes until cheese melts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of the skillet (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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