High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Why Make This High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Craving a meal that’s as hearty as it is healthy? Look no further than High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls. This recipe combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the nourishing benefits of basmati rice and colorful vegetables, making it the perfect choice for those who want to indulge without the guilt. Packed with protein from lean top sirloin and loaded with fiber-rich veggies, these rice bowls deliver a balanced meal that’s sure to satisfy. Ideal for dinner or meal prep, this dish is not only yummy but also versatile, ensuring it fits seamlessly into your weekly menu.

How to Make High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Creating your own High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls is a straightforward process that yields glorious results. Start with marinating the sliced sirloin to enhance its natural flavors, then cook the rice perfectly fluffy while sautéing the veggies to a golden perfection. Combine all these elements with a rich and creamy cheese sauce for a dish that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

4.5 lbs raw top sirloin beef (shaved thin)
3 tsp salt
3 tsp black pepper
4 tsp garlic powder
4 tsp onion powder
2/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp olive oil (optional)
6 tbsp light butter (divided for cooking)
2-3 large white onions (thinly sliced)
1 large green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
1 large red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
16 slices reduced-fat cheese slices
2 cups 1% milk
1 3/4 cups low-fat cheddar (shredded)
2 3/4 cups uncooked basmati rice
1/4 cup minced garlic
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 1/4 cups grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

Marinate the Steak: In a large bowl, combine the sliced sirloin with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil (if using). Massage the seasonings into the meat to ensure even distribution. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (overnight is best for flavor).
Cook the Rice: While the steak marinates, cook the basmati rice according to the package directions. This will serve as a fluffy base for your bowl.

Sauté the Garlic and Add Cheese: In your largest skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sizzling for 1 minute until fragrant. Fold in the cooked rice along with the fresh parsley and grated parmesan. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden and slightly charred. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
Sear the Steak: Increase the heat on the skillet to high and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, sear the marinated steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Avoid flipping more than once for the best sear. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, warm the 1% milk over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar until it melts and becomes smooth. Remove from heat, then stir in the cheese slices one at a time, creating a velvety cheese sauce.
Assemble the Bowls: Start with a scoop of the garlic parmesan rice as the base. Top with the caramelized vegetables and sliced steak, finishing with a generous drizzle of cheese sauce. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides approximately:

Calories: 640
Total Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 1050mg
Carbohydrates: 52g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 44g
Calcium: 600mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact measurements and modifications.)

How to Serve High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Serve your High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls hot, ensuring that the cheese sauce is gooey and warm. They make a great centerpiece for weeknight dinners, and if you’re serving guests, consider garnishing with fresh parsley for a splash of color. These bowls can stand alone as a complete meal, or you can pair them with a side salad for some extra freshness.

How to Store High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to the cheese sauce if it gets too thick. Avoid freezing the dish, as the texture of the cheese sauce may not hold up well after thawing.

Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the beef overnight to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
Cook Rice Perfectly: Use a rice cooker or follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy rice.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Searing the steak in batches ensures each piece gets a beautiful brown crust.
Blend the Cheese Smoothly: For the cheese sauce, whisk continuously as you add the cheese slices for a lump-free sauce.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with mushrooms and add more veggies like zucchini or spinach for a vegetarian version.

Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or add extra red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables for a spicy flair.
Quinoa Base: Swap basmati rice with quinoa for a gluten-free option that’s equally nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute top sirloin with ribeye or flank steak for a richer flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking time as different cuts may require adjustments.
Is this dish gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensuring your cheese is gluten-free.

Can I prepare these bowls in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the beef and prep the rice and veggies ahead of time. Assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat for the best flavor.
What if I don’t have basmati rice?
You can use any long-grain rice or even brown rice, but cooking times may vary. Adjust accordingly based on the type you choose.
How can I make it lower in calories?
You could reduce the amount of cheese used, or try using a lighter cheese. Additionally, using less butter and opting for cooking spray can cut down on calories.

What toppings do you recommend?
Consider adding sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and flavor.
Is it okay to use frozen vegetables?
Yes! Frozen bell peppers and onions can be used directly in the recipe; just sauté them until heated through before combining.
How can I enhance the flavor further?
Adding a splash of hot sauce or your favorite seasoning blend can really elevate the flavor profile.

Can I eat this dish cold?
Yes, this bowl can be enjoyed cold, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying as a lunch.
How long do these rice bowls take to make?
The entire process takes about an hour, including marination time, which can overlap with other prep steps to save time.

Conclusion

The High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls are a delicious and fulfilling meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender steak, vibrant veggies, and a creamy cheese sauce, each bite is a delight. Not only do you get a protein-packed dish, but it’s also simple to prepare and filled with flavor. We encourage you to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you! So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a homemade bowl of goodness—it’s time to dig in!