Let’s face it—Philly Cheesesteaks are iconic. The moment you take a bite, you’re transported to the bustling streets of Philadelphia. The sizzling meat, the ooey-gooey cheese, and those crispy veggies come together in a way that's so satisfying. But for those of us watching our carbs, traditional versions can be a hefty challenge. Tucking that classic deliciousness into a lower-carb recipe, however, is not only possible but downright thrilling.
When I first tried making a keto version, I was dubious. Could it really be as good? Spoiler alert: It definitely is. This recipe is simple yet satisfying, retaining all the flavor without the heavy carb load. Let’s roll up our sleeves and explore the delightful world of Keto Philly Cheesesteak.
So, what exactly is a Keto Philly Cheesesteak? At its core, it’s the same mouthwatering dish that has graced countless deli menus, although we've danced around the carbs. Instead of hoagie rolls, we use low-carb substitutes or simply enjoy it in a bowl. The main components remain: thinly sliced steak, colorful bell peppers, onions, and, of course, melted provolone cheese.
This adaptation keeps you within your ketogenic goals while giving you that savory experience you crave. Transforming this dish doesn’t require gourmet skills—simply switch out some ingredients, and voilà!
You might find many variations online. However, what differentiates my recipe is the balance. I ensure that every bite finds a harmonious relationship between the ingredients. The seasoning is deliberate, the cheese is generously layered, and the technique is straightforward.
Not too much fuss, but also not too little—this recipe strikes that sweet spot. You won’t be adding random low-carb substitutes without considering how they contribute to the overall flavor.
If I could describe the taste of this dish in two words, they would be "satisfying" and "fulfilling." When you take that first bite, the juicy flank steak hits your palate, followed closely by the warmth of sautéed bell peppers and onions. Then comes the melty provolone that stretches and envelops everything like a warm hug.
With optional balsamic vinegar and smoked paprika, you can create layers of flavor that intrigue your taste buds, transforming a simple dish into an exquisite meal. Each ingredient plays its role without overpowering the others, making it a dish that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Start with your flank steak. This cut is perfect for a cheesesteak. Use a sharp knife to slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. If you can, freeze the steak for about 30 minutes first—this makes slicing much easier.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they’re translucent, about 3 minutes. Toss in the sliced green and red bell peppers, cooking until they’re tender, about an additional 5-7 minutes. Finally, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Set this colorful mixture aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Increase the heat to high and add the flank steak. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning—searing for about 2-3 minutes. You want that beef to be browned but still juicy.
Once the steak is cooked, add back the sautéed veggies. Mix them all together in the skillet for a minute or so to ensure the flavors marry.
Now, reduce the heat to low. Layer the provolone cheese slices over the steak and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted.
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, you’re ready to serve! If you wish, drizzle some balsamic vinegar over the top for an extra kick. Enjoy your Keto Philly Cheesesteak hot, perhaps in a bowl or alongside your favorite low-carb sides.
This Keto Philly Cheesesteak recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional information:
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t fret! Store your Keto Philly Cheesesteak in an airtight container. It stays good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in a skillet or the microwave.
If you want to switch things up, here are some options:
A Keto Philly Cheesesteak is a game changer. It brings back the joy of indulging in cheesesteaks without the carb-heavy bread. With plenty of ways to personalize it, the possibilities are endless. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty dinner or a quick lunch, this dish will satisfy your cravings.
So, fire up that skillet and dive into rich flavors, gooey cheese, and savory beef. You won’t just enjoy a meal; you’ll experience a taste of Philadelphia without leaving your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Before diving into the delectable details of the Keto Philly Cheesesteak, let me share a little about what pairs beautifully with this dish. A crispy, fresh garden salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette is an excellent side option.
If you want to keep the meal entirely keto-friendly, you might want to consider a zucchini noodle salad or some sautéed asparagus tossed with a hint of garlic. And for those who enjoy a hint of spice, a side of jalapeño poppers works wonders. Now, let’s jump right into the goodness of the Keto Philly Cheesesteak.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I’m Irene Adkins, a registered dietitian and creator of Delicious Meal Ideas. Growing up in Syracuse, NY, I developed a passion for simple, flavorful cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. Through my blog, I share easy, healthy recipes that bring joy to everyday meals, making home cooking fun and accessible for everyone.