These Easy Philly Cheesesteak Bowls are a fun twist on the classic sandwich. You get all the tasty flavors like beef, peppers, onions, and gooey cheese, all in a bowl!
I love how quick and simple these bowls are to make. Perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting but don’t want to fuss around too much. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye for the rich flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute chicken or turkey. You can even use plant-based beef for a vegetarian twist!
Bell Peppers: Green and yellow peppers add sweetness and color to the dish. If you prefer, red or orange peppers would work just as well. For a spicier kick, consider adding some jalapeños or banana peppers.
Onion: Use yellow onions for a slightly sweet flavor. If you like a bit more zing, you can switch to red onions. Sweet onions (like Vidalia) are also a great choice. They melt beautifully into the dish!
Cheese: Provolone is traditional, but you could use mozzarella or even Cheez Whiz for that classic Philly taste. If you want to keep it dairy-free, try using a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Rice or Cauliflower Rice: I personally love using cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, but regular rice works perfectly too. Quinoa or brown rice can add a nice texture and flavor if you’re interested!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Beef for Tenderness?
Getting the beef just right is key to delicious cheesesteak bowls. Here’s how to make sure your meat stays tender:
- Use thin slices of beef; it cooks quickly and evenly. Freezing the meat for about 30 minutes can make slicing easier.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the beef. It helps to sear the meat, locking in juices.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan. If necessary, cook the beef in batches to get that lovely browning.
- Cook quickly over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. This will ensure the beef is not overcooked and stays juicy!
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly cooked beef in your Philly cheesesteak bowls every time!
Easy Philly Cheesesteak Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Veggies:
- 1 lb (450g) thinly sliced beef sirloin or ribeye
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For the Cheese and Base:
- 4 slices provolone cheese or 1 cup shredded provolone
- 2 cups cooked rice or cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option)
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, totalling around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced green and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Sauté them until they’re softened and a bit caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the veggies from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Cook the Garlic and Beef:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Now, add the thinly sliced beef to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if desired. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take around 4-6 minutes.
3. Combine Everything:
Once the beef is ready, return the sautéed bell peppers and onion to the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together to combine and let it heat through for another minute or two.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Lower the heat to low and place the slices of provolone cheese over the beef and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt, which will take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, spoon the cheesesteak mixture over bowls of cooked rice or cauliflower rice. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for extra flavor and a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Bowls!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Philly Cheesesteak Bowls
Can I Use Frozen Beef?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but make sure it’s fully thawed before slicing and cooking. The best way to thaw it is overnight in the refrigerator or by using the defrost function on your microwave. This helps maintain tenderness and makes slicing easier!
What If I Don’t Have Provolone Cheese?
No worries! If you don’t have provolone, you can substitute it with mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese for a gooey finish. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the dish, especially Cheez Whiz for a classic Philly touch!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for some heat, add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers to the skillet while sautéing the bell peppers. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes or hot sauce over the assembled bowl for an extra kick.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and veggie mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to serve. Keep in mind that the cheese is best melted fresh, so add that during reheating.
With these tips, you’re set for a delicious and easy cooking experience! Enjoy your meal!
