Why Make This High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
If you’re craving a hearty, filling meal that keeps your protein levels high and your taste buds happy, these High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls are a must-try! This delightful dish combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the heartiness of basmati rice, creating a satisfying one-bowl meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The juicy marinated sirloin, sweet caramelized onions and peppers, and a creamy cheese sauce will have everyone at the table coming back for seconds. Plus, packed with protein and savory goodness, this recipe will fuel your day.
How to Make High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
Making these rice bowls is simpler than it sounds! Start by marinating your sirloin to infuse it with flavor, then cook the rice while you sauté the vegetables. The key to a delicious cheesesteak is in the searing of the steak; this not only locks in the juices but also gives it that lovely caramelized crust. Finally, whip up a quick cheese sauce for that creamy finish, and layer everything beautifully in bowls.
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 Beef: In a large bowl, combine the sliced sirloin with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil. Massage the seasonings into every piece of meat, ensuring even coverage. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, an overnight marination is ideal.
Cook the Rice: Prepare your basmati rice according to package directions. It’s light and fluffy, making it a perfect base for your bowl.
Sauté the Garlic Rice: In your largest skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, allowing them to sizzle for about a minute until aromatic. Fold in the cooked rice, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan, fluffing everything with a fork. Keep it warm.
Caramelize the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and slightly charred. Transfer this delicious mix to a bowl and set it aside.
Sear the Steak: Heat the skillet over high heat and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Working in batches to avoid crowding, sear the marinated steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Avoid flipping too often to achieve that perfect crust. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing it against the grain.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the milk. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Remove from heat, then stir in the cheese slices one at a time until you achieve a velvety, creamy texture.
Build Your Bowls: Start with a generous scoop of the garlic parmesan rice, layer on the caramelized vegetables and sliced steak, then finish with a generous drizzle of the cheese sauce. Each bite will be a perfect blend of textures and flavors!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls (based on 6 servings) provides approximately:
- Calories: 720
- Protein: 56g
- Fats: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
How to Serve High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
These rice bowls are versatile! Serve them as a filling lunch, a hearty dinner, or a satisfying meal prep option for the week. Pair them with a crisp side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced plate. For a fun twist, consider adding some pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick.
How to Store High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’d like to freeze, separate the components (rice, steak, veggies) into individual containers; they can freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce and quality beef make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Searing the steak in batches ensures each piece cooks evenly and achieves a beautiful brown crust.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with different cheese types or veggies. Mushrooms and hot peppers can also add tasty variations.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for seitan or mushrooms for a meat-free version that still carries that Philly cheesesteak vibe.
- Grain Swap: Change up the basmati rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Whole Grain: Use brown rice instead of basmati for an extra nutritional boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! Flank steak or ribeye are great alternatives that will also deliver rich flavor.What if I’m short on time?
You can skip marinating for at least 30 minutes, but allowing it to marinate overnight is best for flavor. Instead, consider using pre-cooked rice to save time!Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives and use almond or oat milk for the sauce to cater to dietary needs.
Conclusion
These High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls combine comfort food and nutrition in the best way possible. With juicy steak, colorful veggies, and a dreamy cheese sauce, this dish offers so much flavor and satisfaction. It’s perfect for any occasion, and the leftovers make for a delicious weekdays meal. So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy and delicious it is! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family; they’ll be thrilled to dig into this tantalizing bowl of goodness!
High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced sirloin with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil. Massage the seasonings into every piece of meat, ensuring even coverage. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
- Prepare your basmati rice according to package directions.
- In your largest skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, allowing them to sizzle for about a minute until aromatic. Fold in the cooked rice, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan, fluffing everything with a fork. Keep it warm.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and slightly charred. Transfer this mix to a bowl and set aside.
- Heat the skillet over high heat and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Working in batches, sear the marinated steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Avoid flipping too often to achieve that crust. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing it against the grain.
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the milk. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Remove from heat, then stir in the cheese slices until you achieve a creamy texture.
- Start with a scoop of garlic parmesan rice, layer on the caramelized vegetables and sliced steak, then finish with a generous drizzle of cheese sauce.