Philly cheesesteak is a classic American favorite known for its tender slices of steak, melted cheese, and sautéed peppers and onions. We’ve taken this iconic sandwich and transformed it into a hearty, low-carb Philly cheesesteak bowl that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
This recipe keeps all the bold flavors you love without the bread, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy comfort food while sticking to their healthy eating goals. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Philly cheesesteak bowl delivers rich taste and simple ingredients in every bite.
Ingredients
To craft an authentic Philly Cheesesteak Bowl that bursts with flavor while staying low-carb, we carefully select ingredients that capture the essence of this classic sandwich. Below are the essential components divided into categories for clarity.
Meat and Cheese
Our bowl relies on premium protein and creamy cheese to maintain the traditional Philly cheesesteak taste:
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak (or sirloin for leaner option)
- 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking the steak)
Vegetables
The sautéed vegetables add sweetness and texture, crucial for an authentic experience:
- 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
Enhance the natural flavors of the steak and veggies with these simple yet powerful seasonings and sauces:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp | To season steak and vegetables |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ½ tsp | Adds balanced heat |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp | Deepens umami flavor |
| Hot sauce (optional) | 1 tsp | Adds a spicy kick |
We recommend using high-quality ingredients to ensure each bite of our Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is rich, juicy, and satisfying.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Philly Cheesesteak Bowl perfectly, we need the right equipment that ensures efficient cooking and helps us achieve the authentic flavors and textures this dish is known for. Here’s what we’ll use:
- Large Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: Ideal for searing the thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak quickly and evenly, locking in the juices and flavor.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing the steak thinly and dicing the vegetables into consistent sizes, promoting even cooking.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the sautéed peppers, onions, and steak without scratching the pan’s surface.
- Measuring Spoons: To add precise amounts of kosher salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and optional hot sauce.
- Cheese Grater or Slicer: If using block provolone cheese, we grate or slice it thinly to melt perfectly over the steak mixture.
- Serving Bowls: To assemble the cheesesteak bowl, allowing us to layer and serve the dish beautifully and conveniently.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet/Cast-Iron | Searing steak and sautéing vegetables |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Thinly slicing steak and vegetables |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stirring and mixing ingredients |
| Measuring Spoons | Adding precise seasonings |
| Cheese Grater/Slicer | Preparing provolone cheese for melting |
| Serving Bowls | Presenting and serving the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl |
Pro Tip: Using a cast-iron skillet gives the steak a beautiful sear, adding to the authentic flavor of the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl.
With these tools at hand, we’re fully equipped to cook our dish efficiently and enjoy every delicious bite.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our Philly Cheesesteak Bowl, proper prep is essential to achieve that perfect blend of flavors and textures. Let’s break down the key steps to get our ingredients ready.
Preparing the Meat
For an authentic Philly Cheesesteak Bowl, the meat must be thinly sliced and properly seasoned to lock in juiciness and flavor.
- Choose the right cut: Use ribeye or sirloin, trimmed of excess fat.
- Freeze for easier slicing: Place the steak in the freezer for 20–30 minutes until firm but not frozen solid. This will make thin slicing easier.
- Slice thinly against the grain: Use a sharp knife to slice the meat about 1/8 inch thick.
- Season well: Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the slices.
- Marinate briefly (optional): Toss the sliced steak with 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder to boost flavor.
| Step | Detail | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cut selection | Ribeye or sirloin | Marbled cuts enhance juiciness |
| Slicing | Thin slices, ~1/8 inch thickness | Freeze for 20–30 minutes |
| Seasoning | Kosher salt, black pepper, Worcestershire | Season right before cooking |
Chopping the Vegetables
The vegetables bring the classic Philly Cheesesteak flavor with their sweetness and crunch. Preparing them properly is key.
- Select fresh produce: Choose firm green bell peppers and yellow onions.
- Slice uniformly: Cut the bell peppers into thin strips about 1/4 inch wide for even sautéing.
- Onion prep: Peel and slice the onions into equally thin strips.
- Mince garlic: Finely chop 2 cloves of garlic for a fragrant base.
- Keep items separate: Set peppers, onions, and garlic aside in individual bowls.
| Vegetable | Preparation | Size/Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| Green Bell Pepper | Deseeded and sliced into strips | ~1/4 inch wide strips |
| Yellow Onion | Peeled and sliced | Thin strips, similar size to peppers |
| Garlic | Peeled and finely minced | Minced finely |
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create a perfect Philly Cheesesteak Bowl. Each process ensures that the tender steak, sautéed vegetables, and melty provolone cheese blend flawlessly for an authentic and satisfying bowl.
Cooking the Meat
- Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until it’s scorching hot.
- Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
- Spread the thinly sliced ribeye steak evenly in the pan without overcrowding. This will help achieve a nice sear.
- Season the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper once it hits the skillet.
- Cook the steak for about 2 minutes per side, stirring occasionally to develop a deep, caramelized crust while keeping the slices tender.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce over the meat for that signature umami depth.
- Remove the cooked steak from the pan and set aside, reserving the flavorful steak drippings in the skillet.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same skillet with the reserved steak drippings, add 1 tablespoon olive oil to boost flavor.
- Toss in the sliced yellow onions and green bell peppers. Stir frequently.
- Season the vegetables lightly with kosher salt to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Sauté over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until the onions turn translucent and the peppers soften but retain some crunch.
- Mince 1 clove of garlic and add it to the skillet in the final 1 minute to avoid burning and maximize aroma.
- Stir everything together, creating a fragrant base that will complement the steak perfectly.
Combining Ingredients
- Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir gently to combine evenly.
- Reduce heat to low and layer 4 ounces of provolone cheese over the steak and veggies.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and let the cheese melt for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Optional: Add a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Once the cheese is melted and everything is hot, spoon the mixture into serving bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for color and freshness.
| Step | Ingredient/Process | Time/Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat skillet | Medium-high heat | 3-4 minutes |
| Cook steak | Ribeye slices + seasoning | 2 minutes per side |
| Sauté vegetables | Onion, bell peppers, salt | 5-7 minutes medium heat |
| Add garlic | Minced, in last minute | 1 minute |
| Melt cheese | Provolone cheese | 2-3 minutes low heat |
Assembly and Serving
Now that we have cooked the steak to perfection and sautéed the vegetables to tender sweetness, it is time to assemble our Philly Cheesesteak Bowl and serve it in a way that highlights its rich flavor and texture. This final step brings together all the components for a satisfying low-carb meal.
Assembling the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl
Start by evenly distributing the sautéed steak across the bottom of each bowl. Layer the tender slices so that every bite delivers that classic Philly cheesesteak richness. Next, add the vibrant sautéed bell peppers and onions on top of the steak, allowing their sweetness and slight char to contrast the meat’s savory notes.
Sprinkle the sliced or shredded provolone cheese liberally over the hot ingredients. Cover the bowl with a lid or foil and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes. This melts the provolone into a gooey blanket that perfectly melds the flavors.
Optional garnish such as freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a burst of color and a mild, fresh bite to complement the rich bowl.
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Layer Steak | Distribute cooked steak evenly in bowl | Maintain medium-thin slices |
| 2. Add Vegetables | Spoon sautéed peppers and onions on top | Warm from pan, no excess liquid |
| 3. Cheese Melt | Sprinkle provolone cheese generously | Cover to melt 2 minutes |
| 4. Garnish Optional | Add parsley or green onions | Finely chopped, fresh |
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl immediately while warm to enjoy the melted cheese and juicy steak at their best. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad of arugula or mixed greens drizzled with olive oil and lemon for a fresh contrast.
For added texture, consider serving with low-carb pickles or spicy pepperoncini on the side to mimic the classic cheesesteak’s tangy accompaniments. A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes enhances the bold flavor further.
This hearty bowl works beautifully for both cozy weeknight dinners and meal prepping. To keep leftovers fresh, store components separately and reheat gently before assembling, preserving that melty cheese texture and juicy steak flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Philly Cheesesteak Bowl Recipe anytime, proper make-ahead and storage techniques are essential. Here’s how we ensure freshness and flavor remain intact for busy days or meal prepping.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Cook the Steak and Vegetables Separately
Cook the thinly sliced steak and sauté the peppers and onions separately. This prevents overcooking and helps maintain the ideal texture for each component.
- Cool Before Storing
Allow both steak and vegetables to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This prevents condensation, which can cause sogginess and reduce flavor quality.
- Assemble When Ready to Serve
Hold off on adding the provolone cheese until serving time to preserve its meltiness and texture.
Storage Instructions
We recommend storing the components in airtight containers and following the guidelines below:
| Component | Storage Container | Refrigerator Time | Freezer Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked Steak | Airtight container | Up to 4 days | Up to 2 months | Slice thin before storing |
| Sautéed Vegetables | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Up to 1 month | Keep dry to avoid sogginess |
| Provolone Cheese | Original wrapping/plastic wrap | Up to 1 week | Up to 6 months | Add fresh upon serving |
Reheating Guidelines
- Stovetop Reheat
Gently warm steak and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to prevent dryness.
- Microwave Reheat
Place components in microwave-safe dishes, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring midway.
- Final Assembly
After reheating, combine steak and vegetables, sprinkle with provolone cheese, cover, and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
Pro Tip: To revive the crispness of sautéed vegetables when reheating, toss them briefly in a hot skillet rather than microwaving.
Meal Prep Ideas
Prepping the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl in advance saves time and keeps our weeknight dinners stress-free. Store components separately and build bowls fresh each day. This approach retains the signature flavors and satisfying textures of the original recipe.
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we guarantee our Philly Cheesesteak Bowl stays delicious and ready to enjoy whenever hunger strikes.
Conclusion
This Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is a perfect way to enjoy all the bold flavors of the classic sandwich without the carbs. It’s versatile enough for quick weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
By focusing on quality ingredients and simple techniques, we’ve created a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re new to low-carb eating or just looking for a tasty twist on a favorite, this recipe delivers every time.
Give it a try and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that fits seamlessly into a healthier lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Philly Cheesesteak Bowl low-carb?
This recipe skips the traditional sandwich bread, focusing on steak, cheese, and sautéed vegetables, which reduces carbs significantly while keeping the classic flavors.
What type of meat is best for this recipe?
Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak works best due to their tenderness and rich flavor, making the bowl juicy and satisfying.
Do I need a cast-iron skillet to make this dish?
A cast-iron skillet is recommended for better searing and enhanced flavor, but a large heavy skillet can also work.
Can I prepare the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl in advance?
Yes, cook the steak and vegetables separately, refrigerate them cooled, and add cheese only before serving to keep the flavors fresh.
How should I store leftovers?
Store steak and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer shelf life.
What sides go well with this bowl?
Serving with a simple side salad or low-carb pickles complements the dish by adding freshness and texture.
Can I add hot sauce or other seasonings?
Yes, Worcestershire sauce and optional hot sauce enhance the flavor, and seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper is essential.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely. Cook and store components separately, then assemble and melt cheese just before eating for convenient, healthy meals.