Philly Cheesesteak Bowls – Easy Low-Carb Dinner Idea | low-carb Philly Cheesesteak Bowl
I fell in love with Philly Cheesesteak Bowls the first time I wanted all the savory goodness of a classic cheesesteak without the bread-heavy aftermath. Growing up near Philly, I remember the sizzle of thinly sliced steak and caramelized onions drifting from local sandwich shops. These bowls capture that nostalgia — the tender steak, sweet peppers, and melted cheese — but served over cauliflower rice or mashed potatoes for a lighter, low-carb weeknight dinner. They’re warm, comforting, and practical, and they remind me of long evenings spent chatting at the kitchen counter after a busy day.
Who is this recipe for?
- This recipe is great for busy parents, low-carb and keto eaters, meal-preppers, and anyone who wants the flavor of a Philly cheesesteak without the bun.
- Core ingredients overview: This recipe combines 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak (thinly sliced), 1 small onion (sliced), 1 green bell pepper (sliced), 1 red bell pepper (sliced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp salt (to taste), 1 tsp black pepper (to taste), 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese, chopped parsley (for garnish), and your choice of cauliflower rice, mashed potatoes, or white rice for serving. The result is a savory, quick, and customizable bowl-style dinner.
Tools & Ingredients
Tools
- Large skillet or frying pan — for searing steak and cooking vegetables.
- Tongs or spatula — for turning and stirring ingredients.
- Cutting board — for slicing steak and vegetables.
- Chef’s knife — for quick, consistent slicing.
- Grater (if shredding cheese yourself) — for fresh shredded cheese.
- Bowls for serving — to assemble your cheesesteak bowls.
- Measuring spoons — for accurate seasoning.
Ingredients (with benefits)
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced — flavorful and quick-cooking for tender bites.
- 1 small onion, sliced — adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced — bright flavor and vitamin C.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced — adds color, sweetness, and antioxidants.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced — boosts flavor and supports immunity.
- 1 tbsp olive oil — healthy fat for cooking and flavor.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce — adds umami and complexity.
- 1 tsp salt (to taste) — enhances and balances flavors.
- 1 tsp black pepper (to taste) — adds a warm, peppery kick.
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese — melty, creamy finish that ties the dish together.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish) — fresh herbal brightness and visual appeal.
- Cauliflower rice, mashed potatoes, or white rice (for serving) — your choice of base: cauliflower rice for low-carb, mashed potatoes for comfort, or white rice for a classic bowl.
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Please slice the steak thinly against the grain, slice the onion and bell peppers, and mince the garlic so everything cooks evenly.
- Heat the skillet: Warm 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook the steak: Add the sliced steak to the skillet along with 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp salt (or to taste), and 1 tsp black pepper (or to taste). Sear for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned but still tender. Remove the steak and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the veggies: In the same pan, add the sliced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring, until the vegetables are soft and beginning to caramelize.
- Combine steak and veggies: Return the cooked steak to the skillet and stir to combine and warm through for another 1 minute. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide your choice of cauliflower rice, mashed potatoes, or white rice into serving bowls. Top each portion with the cooked steak and sautéed veggies.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle about 1/4 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella over each bowl and allow the heat from the ingredients to melt it naturally. If you prefer a slightly crisped top, place the bowls under a broiler for 1–2 minutes — watch carefully so the cheese doesn’t burn.
- Garnish and serve: Finish with chopped parsley for freshness and serve immediately. Enjoy!

FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: You can freeze the cooked steak and vegetables in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop. If using cauliflower rice, freeze it separately to maintain texture.
Q: What can I use instead of ribeye or sirloin?
A: Flank steak, skirt steak, or even thinly sliced chicken breast or pork loin work well as substitutes. Choose cuts that are thinly sliced for quick cooking.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Yes — serve the cheesesteak over cauliflower rice or extra vegetables to keep it low-carb and keto-friendly. Skip mashed potatoes and white rice.
Q: How can I make this vegetarian?
A: Substitute the steak with sliced portobello mushrooms, seitan strips, or marinated tempeh and cook until browned. Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire (use vegan Worcestershire) for umami.
Tips & Tricks
- Slice the steak thinly and against the grain to keep each bite tender — a partially frozen steak slices more cleanly.
- Let the pan stay hot for the initial sear, but don’t overcrowd the skillet; working in batches avoids steaming and helps brown the meat and vegetables.
- If you like more caramelization, cook the onions and peppers a few minutes longer over medium heat before adding the garlic.
- For meal prep, store components separately (base, steak + veggies, cheese) and assemble or reheat only what you need to prevent sogginess.
Conclusion
If you enjoyed this bowl-style twist on a classic, you might like these other low-carb and meal-prep takes on the Philly cheesesteak: Low Carb Philly Cheese steak Bowl – EasyHealth Living, Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak (Philly Cheesesteak in a Bowl) – The Little Pine, Philly Cheesesteak Bowls – Sailor Bailey, Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Bowls – Delightfully Low Carb, and Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep Bowls – Oh Snap Macros. These links offer helpful variations, tips for keto adaptations, and meal-prep ideas to keep your weeknights delicious and simple.
Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Bowls and consider sharing the recipe with friends who love big flavor and low-carb dinners. Always add
tag after Directions.

