High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Why Make This High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls bring together the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and the wholesome goodness of a rice bowl, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. With tender, marinated sirloin beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and creamy cheese sauce, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you fueled throughout the day. Ideal for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, these bowls are simple to prepare, sure to please both kids and adults alike, and customizable to fit your taste preferences.

How to Make High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Creating these tasty rice bowls involves a few key steps, including marinating the beef, cooking the rice, and preparing the vibrant vegetables. With a little planning and the right ingredients, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time. The method includes searing the beef to achieve a perfect crust while keeping it tender inside, sautéing the veggies to enhance their natural sweetness, and crafting a creamy cheese sauce that ties everything together. Follow along for a delicious journey to your new favorite meal!

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:

Start by marinating your sliced sirloin in a large bowl with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil. Ensure all the pieces of meat are well-coated and let it sit covered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For optimal flavor, longer marination overnight is ideal.
While the beef marinates, cook your basmati rice according to package directions.

In your largest skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of light butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Fold in the cooked rice, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan. Fluff the mixture with a fork and keep warm.
In the same skillet, melt an additional 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and bell peppers, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are golden and slightly charred. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside.
Now, heat the skillet over high heat and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, sear the marinated steak for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring it gets a good browning. Remember not to flip the steak more than once! After searing, let the steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

For the cheese sauce, warm the milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in the shredded low-fat cheddar until melted and smooth, and then stir in the reduced-fat cheese slices one at a time until the sauce becomes velvety and creamy.
To build your bowls, start with a generous scoop of garlic parmesan rice, layer with the caramelized onions and bell peppers, top with slices of steak, and finish with a luscious drizzle of the cheese sauce.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (assuming 8 servings):

Calories: 590
Protein: 46g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 900mg

How to Serve High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

These rice bowls are perfect for lunch or dinner and can also be served at casual gatherings. Pair them with a light salad or your favorite veggie dish for an added nutritional boost. Consider topping with extra parsley for a pop of color, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat, or a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick!

How to Store High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Leftover bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the rice bowl in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring gently to avoid drying out. If you find the cheese sauce has thickened, you can add a splash of milk while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls

Ensure the marinated meat is as thinly sliced as possible for optimal tenderness.
Don’t rush the cooking time for the vegetables; allow them to caramelize for the best flavor.
If you have leftover steak, it can be adds to sandwiches or salads for a different meal.

Substitute the Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce for a different flavor twist.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the top sirloin for firm tofu or tempeh, marinating them the same way.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or incorporate spicy pepper jack cheese into the cheese sauce.

Different Grains: Try using quinoa or brown rice instead of basmati for a nuttier flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute top sirloin with flank steak or even chicken for a different flavor profile.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cheese sauce?
Yes! Use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast mixed with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Just ensure to use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and check any cheese brands for gluten-free labels.

Conclusion

High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls bring delicious flavors and wholesome ingredients together in a delightful way. With its protein-packed beef, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce, it’s a dish that’s satisfying and nourishing. Don’t wait—give this recipe a try and delight your taste buds! Share your experiences and variations with friends and family in the comments below; we love hearing from fellow cooking enthusiasts!