High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls are the ultimate comfort food that brings together savory steak, delicious cheese, and vibrant vegetables over a bed of garlicky parmesan rice. These bowls are not only filling but also packed with protein, making them perfect for a hearty dinner or meal prep for the week. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Each bite is filled with robust flavors from the marinated steak and creamy cheese sauce.
- High Protein Content: With 67g of protein per serving, this recipe keeps you fueled and satisfied.
- Easy to Prepare: Quick prep and cook times make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the veggies or adjust spices to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well, making them ideal for reheating throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create these High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Rice cooker (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or frying pan: Essential for searing the steak and sautéing vegetables evenly.
- Sharp knife: Makes slicing meat and vegetables easy and safe.
- Mixing bowl: Great for marinating steak and mixing ingredients without 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 Marinade
- 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 Cooking the Vegetables
- 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 Garlic Parmesan Rice
- 50g minced garlic
- 520g uncooked basmati rice (approx. 1200g cooked)
- 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, cook for another 3 minutes, then remove 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, stirring occasionally until they develop a rich brown crust.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Reduce heat to low. Return cooked vegetables to steak; then add cheese slices, milk, and shredded cheddar. Stir everything together slowly until cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Spoon 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 versatile and can be served in several delightful ways. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, you can customize them to suit your taste and occasion.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and enhances flavor.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Add a Crunch
- Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips on the side for an added crunch.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy spice, pickled jalapeños bring heat and tanginess.
Pair with a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bowls.
- Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette balances out the hearty rice bowls.
Serve with Dipping Sauces
- Chipotle Mayo: This creamy sauce adds a smoky kick and pairs well with the savory steak.
- Garlic Aioli: A smooth garlic aioli enhances the overall experience with its rich flavor.
How to Perfect High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
To ensure your High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind.
- Bold Marination: Allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Proper Veggie Cooking: Sauté vegetables just until they soften to maintain some crunch and vibrant color.
- Rice Consistency: Use freshly cooked basmati rice for fluffiness. Avoid overcooking it to keep it light.
- Watch Cheese Melting: Stir cheese slowly into the mixture at low heat to achieve a creamy consistency without clumping.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings during cooking by tasting. This ensures balanced flavors throughout.
Best Side Dishes for High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
Complementing your High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls with delicious sides makes for a satisfying meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds buttery richness, perfect for dipping into cheesy sauces.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer additional nutrients and flavors to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and freshness, balancing the hearty bowls well.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet fries add a delicious contrast in flavor while boosting nutrition.
- Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, cucumber salad is an excellent way to cool down spicy dishes.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice complement the flavors nicely and make it filling.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness; it’s easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying savory bowls, making it a sweet finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls, be wary of these common mistakes.
- Bold seasoning: Under-seasoning your beef or vegetables can lead to bland bowls. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and spices; they are crucial for depth of flavor.
- Bold cooking temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature can prevent the steak from searing properly. Use medium-high heat for that perfect crust.
- Bold rice preparation: Using undercooked rice can ruin the texture. Ensure your basmati rice is fully cooked and fluffy before adding it to the dish.
- Bold cheese choice: Using full-fat cheese may result in a greasy sauce. Opt for reduced-fat options to keep it creamy without excess fat.
- Bold ingredient prep: Not slicing vegetables thinly can lead to uneven cooking. Thin slices ensure that your veggies caramelize nicely and blend well with the steak.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Separate portions into smaller containers for easy thawing.
Reheating High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls.
What type of meat is best for High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls?
Top sirloin is ideal due to its tenderness and flavor. You can also use flank steak or other lean cuts.
Can I make High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the beef with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I serve with High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls?
These bowls are complete on their own! However, you could pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables if desired.
Can I prepare High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Meal prep them by cooking all components ahead of time and storing separately until ready to assemble and serve.
Final Thoughts
These High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls are not only satisfying but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite veggies or cheeses, making them perfect for any weeknight dinner or meal prep session. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors!
High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls are a delicious twist on a classic favorite, combining tender beef, melted cheese, and vibrant vegetables over a bed of savory garlic parmesan rice. This dish is not only filling but also brimming with 67g of protein per serving, making it a fantastic choice for hearty dinners or meal prep. Whether hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these bowls deliver comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite veggies, this recipe ensures you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2000g raw top sirloin beef (shaved thin)
- 40g light butter
- 400g white onion (thinly sliced)
- 200g green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 200g red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 16 reduced-fat cheese slices
- 500g 1% milk
- 120g grated parmesan
- 520g uncooked basmati rice
- 3 tsp salt
- 3 tsp black pepper
- 4 tsp garlic powder
- 4 tsp onion powder
- 140g substitute for Worcestershire sauce
- 6 tsp olive oil (optional)
- 50g minced garlic
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Marinate the sliced beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, substitute for Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat; sauté onions and bell peppers until softened.
- Prepare garlic parmesan rice by cooking garlic in the same pan, then mixing it with cooked rice, chili flakes (if desired), parmesan, and parsley.
- Sear marinated beef in the skillet until browned, about 4-6 minutes.
- Reduce heat; return veggies to the pan and add cheese slices and milk; stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
- Serve the cheesy mixture over garlic parmesan rice.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 550g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 67g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: For added flavor, let the steak marinate longer if possible. Consider adding mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
