High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

These High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a classic favorite. They combine tender beef, creamy cheese, and flavorful veggies over a bed of garlicky parmesan rice. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, these bowls are packed with protein and sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Comfort: Enjoy the taste of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a healthier bowl format.
• High Protein: Packed with protein from the beef and cheese, making it a great choice for muscle recovery.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare in advance for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just under an hour, perfect for busy evenings.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delightful rice bowls, you will need some essential kitchen tools that will make the cooking process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking and perfect searing of the steak.
• Large mixing bowl: Great for marinating the steak and mixing ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

These bowls are a flavor-packed powerhouse—savory steak, garlicky parmesan rice, melty cheese sauce, and caramelized veggies. Reminds me of those comforting takeout nights… but healthier, and way more satisfying. Perfect for meal prep or a hearty dinner everyone will rave about!

For the Steak:

• 2000g raw top sirloin beef, shaved thin
• 3 tsp salt
• 3 tsp black pepper
• 4 tsp garlic powder
• 4 tsp onion powder
• 140g Worcestershire sauce
• 6 tsp olive oil (optional)

For the Veggies:

• 40g light butter (for cooking)
• 400g white onion, thinly sliced
• 200g green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 200g red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 16 reduced fat cheese slices
• 500g 1% milk
• 200g low fat cheddar
• 20g light butter

For the Rice:

• 50g minced garlic
• 520g uncooked basmati rice (approx. 1200g cooked)

Garnish:

• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 120g grated parmesan

How to Make High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Thinly slice your sirloin and coat it evenly with all the marinade ingredients. Set it aside to soak up the flavor while you work on the rest.

Step 2: Cook the Veggies

Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers, letting them soften for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then cook for another 3 minutes before removing them from the pan.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Rice

In the same pan, melt a bit more butter and quickly cook the garlic until fragrant. Stir in the cooked rice, sprinkle with chili flakes (if using), parmesan, and parsley. Mix until everything is hot, fluffy, and infused with flavor.

Step 4: Sear the Steak

Crank up the heat to medium-high, add butter, and sear the marinated steak strips. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes while stirring occasionally until they develop a rich brown crust.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Reduce heat to low. Return cooked vegetables to steak mixture, then add cheese slices, milk, and shredded cheddar. Stir slowly until cheese melts into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Spoon the cheesy steak mixture over a bed of garlic parmesan rice and dig in while it’s hot.

How to Serve High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

These High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls are not only delicious but also quite versatile. You can serve them in various ways to suit different tastes and occasions.

With Extra Toppings

• Avocado Slices: Adding fresh avocado brings a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For added heat, sprinkle pickled jalapeños on top before serving.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

As a Wrap

• Tortilla Wraps: Spoon the filling into whole wheat tortillas for a tasty wrap option.
• Lettuce Cups: Use large lettuce leaves as a crunchy, low-carb alternative to wraps.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Single-Serve Portions: Divide the rice bowls into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Freezer-Friendly: Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. Reheat when needed!

How to Perfect High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

To make sure your High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Bold Marinade: Ensure the steak is well-marinated for at least 30 minutes before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Quality Cheese: Use high-quality reduced-fat cheese for a creamier sauce without adding too many calories.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to get that perfect sear and browning.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference after cooking.
• Let it Rest: Allow the meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking for better juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Pair your High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls with these delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and nutrition; simply season with lemon juice.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet veggies complement the savory flavors; toss with olive oil and spices before roasting.
3. Cauliflower Mash: A creamy, low-carb alternative that pairs beautifully with rich cheesesteak flavors; blend steamed cauliflower with garlic and olive oil.
4. Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly balances the richness of the bowls.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Seasoned with salt and pepper, grilled asparagus adds a smoky flavor that enhances your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with herb butter makes a sweet side that’s perfect for summer meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls, it’s easy to fall into some common traps. Here are mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the steak can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the meat to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until they are tender while maintaining some crunch for better texture.

• Using Incorrect Cheese: Not choosing the right cheese can impact creaminess. Stick with reduced-fat cheese slices and low-fat cheddar for a healthier yet delicious option.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in dull dishes. Don’t forget to season each layer of your recipe, from the steak to the rice.

• Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients leads to inconsistencies. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy, especially with rice and liquids.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.
• Allow leftovers to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; cover loosely. Heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat; stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls:

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute top sirloin beef with chicken, turkey, or even lamb if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I serve with High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls?

These bowls pair well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition and color on your plate.

Can I meal prep these bowls in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare them ahead of time and store them in individual portions for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Perfect for meal prep or a satisfying dinner, give this recipe a try and experience its comforting flavors!