The Philly cheesesteak bowl is a delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Packed with tender slices of beef, sautéed peppers, onions, and melted cheese, this low-carb option delivers all the iconic flavours without the bread. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
What makes the Philly cheesesteak bowl so appealing is its versatility. You can customize it with your favourite ingredients, adjust the spice level, and even make it vegetarian. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
In this post, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Philly cheesesteak bowl, tips for success, creative variations, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish or a new meal prep idea, this recipe is sure to become a household favourite.
Ingredients You’ll Need for a Philly Cheesesteak Bowl
Key Ingredients:
- Ribeye steak or sirloin steak: Thinly sliced for tender, flavorful bites.
- Bell peppers: Use a mix of green, red, and yellow for a vibrant and sweet flavour.
- Onions: Yellow or white onions caramelize beautifully for a rich, savoury taste.
- Provolone cheese or mozzarella: Melted cheese adds the signature creamy, cheesy finish.
Seasonings:
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savoury flavour.
- Onion powder: Adds depth and complements the sautéed onions.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to bring out the natural flavours of the steak and veggies.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savoury, umami kick that elevates the dish.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Mushrooms: Add an earthy flavour and extra texture.
- Spinach: For a nutrient-packed boost.
- Jalapeños: If you prefer a spicy twist.
- Cauliflower rice: Perfect as a low-carb base to turn the bowl into a complete meal.
Pro Tip
Use high-quality steak and fresh veggies to achieve the best flavour and texture. The proper beef and fresh produce cut will make your Philly cheesesteak bowl taste like a restaurant-quality dish.
How to Make a Philly Cheesesteak Bowl
Sauté the Vegetables
Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for 5–7 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized. Transfer the vegetables to a plate and set them aside.
Cook the Steak
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced steak. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and reaches your desired doneness.
Assemble the Bowl
In a serving bowl, layer the cooked veggies as the base. Top with steak slices and layer with provolone cheese or mozzarella. Place the bowl under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of colour and added flavour. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Philly cheesesteak bowl!
Pro Tip
Use a cast iron skillet to achieve a perfect sear on your steak, giving it that authentic Philly cheesesteak flavour.
Tips for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Bowls
Choosing the Right Steak
For the best Philly cheesesteak bowl, start with a high-quality cut of beef.
- Ribeye steak is the traditional choice because of its rich marbling and tenderness.
- Sirloin steak or flank steak are leaner options that still provide great flavour when cooked properly.
- Tip: Slice the steak thinly across the grain for the most tender bites.
Cooking the Veggies
The vegetables are an essential part of the Philly cheesesteak experience.
- Bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms should be cooked until tender but still slightly crisp to retain their texture.
- Avoid overcooking, as mushy vegetables can make the bowl feel heavy.
- Tip: Season the veggies with a pinch of salt and pepper while cooking to enhance their natural flavours.
Melting the Cheese
The gooey, melty cheese takes this dish to the next level.
- Use the broiler to achieve a perfectly melted, bubbly cheese topping in just a few minutes.
- If you don’t have a broiler, cover your skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly.
- Tip: Provolone is a classic choice, but try other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Pro Tip
Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to ensure the juices evenly redistribute. This keeps the meat tender and flavorful when sliced and served.
Creative Variations for Philly Cheesesteak Bowls
Low-Carb Option
For a keto-friendly version, swap out traditional rice with cauliflower rice.
- It keeps the dish low-carb while still being hearty and satisfying.
- You can also use zucchini noodles or a bed of lettuce for a fresh, light twist.
Spicy Version
Add some heat to your Philly cheesesteak bowl with spicy ingredients.
- Jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or sriracha sauce will give the dish a bold, fiery kick.
- Add chipotle peppers to adobo sauce for a rich, smoky flavour if you prefer a smoky spice.
Cheese Sauce
Replace traditional sliced cheese with a homemade cheese sauce for an indulgent twist.
- Make a quick cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and slowly adding milk and shredded cheese until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the bowl for a creamy, rich finish.
Vegetarian Option
For a meat-free version, swap out the steak with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Portobello mushrooms are a great substitute because of their meaty texture and rich flavour.
- Add extra veggies like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini to make it a hearty vegetarian meal.
Pro Tip
You can customize your bowl by adding your favourite veggies, cheeses, or unique seasonings to match your taste preferences.
FAQs and Storage Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Bowls
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely!
- Mozzarella, cheddar, or American cheese are great options for different flavour profiles.
- Pepper Jack can add a spicy twist if you prefer some heat.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store the steak, veggies, and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Keep the cheese separate for best results to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prep the steak, veggies, and cheese beforehand.
- When ready to eat, reheat and assemble the bowls.
Storage Tips
- Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the flavours and textures, or use a microwave if short on time.
- Store cheese separately and add it when reheating to keep it fresh and melty.
- Freeze cooked steak and veggies for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers for easy meal prep.
Pro Tip
For meal prep, separate all components and assemble the bowl before serving to maintain the best texture and flavour.
Conclusion
Making Philly cheesesteak bowls at home is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of a classic sandwich in a healthier, low-carb option. With tender steak, perfectly cooked veggies, and melty cheese, this meal is versatile and customizable to suit any taste.
Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite seasonings, toppings, or variations to make the dish your own. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving it fresh, these bowls will surely be a hit for any occasion.
We’d love to hear from you! Try the recipe and share your Philly cheesesteak bowl creations, tips, or questions in the comments below. Don’t forget to tag us on social media—we can’t wait to see your delicious meals!
Philly cheesesteak bowls
Ingredients
For the Steak and Vegetables:
- 1 lb ribeye steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Cheese:
- 4-6 slices provolone cheese or mozzarella cheese
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Green onions, chopped
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms (if using).
- Cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
- Transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside.
Cook the Steak:
- In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and stir to coat the steak.
Assemble the Bowl:
- In a serving bowl, layer the cooked vegetables as the base.
- Top with the cooked steak slices.
- Place 1–2 slices of provolone cheese or mozzarella on top.
Melt the Cheese:
- Place the bowl under a broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If a broiler is unavailable, cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Philly cheesesteak bowl!
