This Philly Cheesesteak Bowl offers a hearty, gluten-free, and customizable twist on the classic sandwich. Instead of a hoagie roll, tender ground beef is sautéed with bell peppers and onions, then topped with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Served over a bed of rice, this dish delivers all the beloved flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak in a convenient bowl format. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences, including dairy-free and low-carb options.
Ingredients
For the Bowl:
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
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Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp butter (or plant-based butter)
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½ red onion, thinly sliced
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1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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4 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
For the Cheese Sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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3 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1–2 tsp minced garlic
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1½ cups half-and-half or dairy-free creamer
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1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
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½ tsp ground mustard
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1 tsp kosher salt
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⅛ tsp ground black pepper
Directions
Cook the Ground Beef:
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
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Season with salt and pepper, then transfer to a bowl and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
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In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
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Add the sliced onions and bell peppers.
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Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
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Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
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In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
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Whisk in the flour and minced garlic, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Slowly add the half-and-half, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ground mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Assemble the Bowl:
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Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls.
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Top with the cooked ground beef and sautéed vegetables.
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Pour the cheese sauce over the top.
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Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or additional toppings as desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
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Calories: 600 kcal
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Protein: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 45g
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Fat: 30g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 800mg
The Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl
The Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is a contemporary twist on the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, a dish that has been a staple of Philadelphia cuisine for over a century. The original Philly cheesesteak was created in the 1930s by Pat and Harry Oliviero, who ran a hot dog stand. It was a simple creation—thinly sliced steak topped with melted cheese and served on a hoagie roll. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating onions, peppers, and other toppings, becoming a beloved comfort food known across the United States.
However, as dietary preferences and lifestyles evolve, many people seek alternatives to the traditional sandwich. Enter the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl: a hearty, gluten-free, and customizable version that offers the same bold flavors as the sandwich but with added flexibility. Served over a bed of rice instead of the classic hoagie roll, this bowl format is ideal for individuals with gluten sensitivities, those looking to control their carbohydrate intake, or anyone simply wanting a more convenient and adaptable meal. It’s a perfect option for meal prepping and can easily be tailored to accommodate various dietary restrictions such as dairy-free, low-carb, or even vegetarian diets.
Why Choose a Philly Cheesesteak Bowl?
The Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is a fantastic alternative for those who love the flavors of the original sandwich but are looking for a more balanced and customizable meal. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbohydrate intake, follow a gluten-free lifestyle, or simply want a different way to enjoy a classic, the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl offers numerous benefits.
1. Healthier Option:
The traditional Philly cheesesteak is typically served on a hoagie roll, which is rich in refined carbs and calories. By replacing the bread with rice, especially cauliflower rice or brown rice, you are swapping out the high-carb content for a healthier, more filling base. This is especially beneficial for those following low-carb, gluten-free, or paleo diets. Additionally, the use of lean ground beef or turkey allows for a healthier protein choice.
2. Customizable for Any Diet:
One of the key benefits of this dish is its versatility. If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer dairy-free options, you can easily substitute the dairy ingredients in the cheese sauce with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk or dairy-free cheese. For those following a low-carb lifestyle, cauliflower rice is a great substitute for white or brown rice, reducing the carbohydrate content while still providing a satisfying texture.
3. Quick and Easy Meal:
Unlike the original Philly cheesesteak sandwich, which requires a hoagie roll and a bit more preparation, the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is straightforward and easy to assemble. It’s a one-pan dish for the beef and veggies, and the cheese sauce comes together quickly. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or meal prep, where time is of the essence.
Why Rice?
The choice to use rice as the base for the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is both practical and strategic. Rice serves as a neutral yet hearty foundation that complements the richness of the cheese sauce and the savory flavors of the ground beef and vegetables. Whether using traditional white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice, the option allows for flexibility based on personal taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
White Rice: This is the classic choice, offering a soft, fluffy texture that absorbs the cheese sauce well. It provides a neutral backdrop that lets the beef, peppers, and onions shine. However, it’s higher in carbohydrates compared to brown rice and cauliflower rice.
Brown Rice: A more nutritious option, brown rice is a whole grain and provides more fiber than white rice. It offers a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture that complements the other ingredients in the bowl. This version is great for anyone looking to boost their fiber intake or add more whole grains to their diet.
Cauliflower Rice: For those seeking a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice is the perfect option. Made from finely chopped cauliflower, it has a texture similar to rice but with significantly fewer carbohydrates. It also provides a healthy serving of vegetables, making it a great option for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
Adapting the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl for Dietary Preferences
The beauty of the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl lies in its adaptability. With just a few simple substitutions, it can be modified to meet various dietary needs. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Gluten-Free:
Traditional hoagie rolls contain gluten, which can be problematic for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. However, by using rice or cauliflower rice as the base, the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is already gluten-free. Ensure that the cheese sauce is also made with gluten-free flour or cornstarch, as some all-purpose flours contain gluten.
2. Dairy-Free:
For individuals who cannot consume dairy or simply prefer to avoid it, the cheese sauce can easily be made dairy-free. Replace the butter with plant-based butter, and swap the shredded cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative. Almond milk or coconut milk can replace the half-and-half for a creamy texture without the dairy.
3. Low-Carb/Keto:
To make this dish keto-friendly or low-carb, opt for cauliflower rice as the base. This significantly reduces the carbohydrate content of the dish while still providing a satisfying texture. Additionally, you can reduce or eliminate the flour in the cheese sauce to keep it low-carb. Be sure to use a full-fat dairy-free or regular cheese to maintain the richness of the sauce without adding excess carbs.
4. Vegetarian/Vegan:
For a vegetarian or vegan version, simply replace the ground beef with plant-based protein, such as crumbled tempeh, tofu, or a vegan meat substitute. Use a dairy-free cheese sauce (as mentioned above) and add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach to add depth of flavor.
The Nutritional Benefits of the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl
When comparing the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl to the traditional sandwich, the bowl offers several nutritional advantages. With the option to choose your base, you can better control the carb content, making it a suitable option for people looking to lower their intake of refined carbs.
The lean protein from the ground beef or turkey provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and satiety. The sautéed bell peppers and onions add not only flavor but also important vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers, in particular, are a rich source of vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin integrity.
The cheese sauce, while indulgent, adds a creamy texture to the dish and provides calcium and other micronutrients. By using alternatives like plant-based cheese or reducing the amount of cheese, you can further tailor the dish to your nutritional needs.
Conclusion: A Versatile, Delicious Meal for Everyone
The Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is a versatile, delicious dish that reimagines the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich in a way that accommodates a wide variety of dietary preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for a healthier version of the beloved sandwich, need a quick weeknight dinner, or want to meal prep for the week, the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl provides a satisfying and customizable solution.
With the ability to choose your base, protein, and cheese sauce ingredients, this dish can easily be made gluten-free, low-carb, dairy-free, or vegan without sacrificing flavor. It’s a great example of how you can enjoy the flavors you love while being mindful of your dietary choices. Whether you’re a Philly native or simply someone looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.