Philly cheesesteaks are an iconic American sandwich known for their juicy, thinly sliced steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and melty cheese all tucked inside a soft hoagie roll. But what if you could enjoy all those bold flavors without the carbs and mess of a sandwich? Enter Philly Cheesesteak Bowls — a delicious, low-carb, and easy-to-make meal that captures all the essence of the classic cheesesteak in a bowl!
Whether you’re cutting back on bread, looking for a keto-friendly dinner, or just craving a hearty and satisfying meal, these bowls deliver tender steak, vibrant veggies, and creamy cheese in every bite. Plus, they’re great for meal prep and customizable to suit your tastes.
Why You’ll Love Philly Cheesesteak Bowls
- Low-carb & keto-friendly: Skip the bread but keep all the flavor.
- Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Meal prep friendly: Make ahead and reheat for hassle-free lunches or dinners.
- Loaded with veggies: Peppers and onions add color, crunch, and nutrition.
- Protein-packed: Perfect for muscle fuel and sustained energy.
- Customizable: Add mushrooms, different cheeses, or your favorite sauces.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak (you can also use thinly sliced beef strips)
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese (or cheese slices)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Steak
- If not pre-sliced, slice your steak thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- Season the steak with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned but still tender.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil or butter.
- Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic.
- Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are soft and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Combine and Melt Cheese
- Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Stir everything together and reduce heat to low.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the steak and veggie mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes.
4. Assemble Your Cheesesteak Bowls
- Divide the steak, vegetable, and cheese mixture into serving bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for extra veggies and texture.
- Add a side of pickles or hot peppers for tang and heat.
- Drizzle with a bit of mayo, mustard, or your favorite steak sauce to boost flavor.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
Variations to Try
- Mushroom lovers: Add sliced mushrooms with the peppers and onions.
- Spicy kick: Toss in sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Different cheeses: Try provolone, cheddar, or American cheese for variety.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based meat substitutes and vegan cheese.
- Extra crunch: Top with crushed pork rinds or toasted nuts for texture.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 400–500 kcal
- Protein: 35–40g
- Carbohydrates: 8–12g
- Fat: 25–30g
- Fiber: 2–3g
This makes Philly cheesesteak bowls an excellent option for low-carb and high-protein diets.
Why Choose Bowls Over Sandwiches?
Bowls offer a flexible, low-carb alternative that keeps all the delicious flavor of the classic Philly cheesesteak without the added carbs from bread. They’re easier to customize, quicker to assemble, and ideal for meal prep. Plus, serving your meal in a bowl encourages mindful eating and portion control.
Final Thoughts
If you crave the savory, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak but want a lighter, more customizable meal, Philly Cheesesteak Bowls are the way to go. Quick to prepare, full of bold flavors, and perfect for any diet, these bowls bring the best of Philly right to your kitchen table — no hoagie roll required!
Try making them for dinner tonight or prep a batch for easy meals all week long. You won’t be disappointed.