Why Make This High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls are the ultimate comfort food that bridges traditional flavors with healthy eating. This dish packs a powerful protein punch, thanks to the tender sirloin and cheese, while also keeping it surprisingly light with the addition of rice and vibrant veggies. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, this dish will satisfy your cravings. Plus, the delicious aroma of sizzling beef and caramelized onions will fill your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist!
How to Make High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
Creating these High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls is as fun as it is satisfying. Start with marinating the sirloin to infuse it with flavors. The next step involves cooking the basmati rice, where you can add garlic and parmesan for extra flavor. Once you’ve made the rice, sauté the onions and bell peppers until they’re perfectly caramelized. Finally, sear the marinated steak and build your bowls by layering the garlic parmesan rice with vegetables, sliced steak, and a rich cheese sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also allows for creative touches, making it a perfect fit for your family or special gatherings.
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 sliced sirloin with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and optional olive oil. Massage the seasonings into the meat for maximum flavor, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best results, marinate overnight.
Cook the Rice: Prepare the basmati rice according to the package directions. In your largest skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Fold in the cooked rice, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan cheese. Fluff the mixture with a fork and keep it warm.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are golden and slightly charred. Transfer them to a bowl and set 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 more than once to ensure a good sear. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing it against the grain.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, warm the milk over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar until it’s melted and smooth. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheese slices one at a time until the sauce is velvety and creamy.
Assemble Your Bowls: Start with a generous scoop of garlic parmesan rice at the base of each bowl. Top with caramelized veggies and sliced steak, then finish with a lavish drizzle of the creamy cheese sauce.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fats: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Sodium: Varies based on added salt and cheese
How to Serve High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
Serve these bowls warm, garnished with extra parsley for a pop of color. They are perfect as a filling lunch or dinner and make for a great centerpiece at a family gathering or game day. Pair them with a light salad or steamed veggies to balance out the meal.
How to Store High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet, adding a splash of milk if the cheese sauce thickens.
Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
- For even more flavor, consider adding sliced mushrooms or jalapeños to the sautéed veggies.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut steak strips and frozen vegetable blends to speed up prep.
- Letting the steak rest before cutting ensures it’s tender, as it allows the juices to redistribute.
Delicious Variations
- Chicken Version: Substitute the sirloin for thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs for a lighter twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Use grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu instead of meat and keep the cheese sauce to maintain that creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of rice?
Absolutely! While basmati rice adds a nice flavor profile, jasmine rice or even cauliflower rice can be good alternatives for a lower-carb option.
2. How can I make the dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure that the cheese is also gluten-free.
3. Can I freeze these rice bowls for later use?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled bowls, but it’s best to keep the cheese sauce separate. They can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months.
Conclusion
These High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls deliver a delectable combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at your table. They’re not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with protein to fuel your day. Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and variations. We’d love to hear how your bowls turn out, so drop a comment below or share your culinary creations! Enjoy cooking!
High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Rice Bowls
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine sliced sirloin with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and optional olive oil. Massage the seasonings into the meat for maximum flavor, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best results, marinate overnight.
- Prepare the basmati rice according to the package directions. In your largest skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Fold in the cooked rice, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan cheese. Fluff the mixture with a fork and keep it warm.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are golden and slightly charred. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside.
- 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 more than once to ensure a good sear.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing it against the grain.
- In a saucepan, warm the milk over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar until it’s melted and smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheese slices one at a time until the sauce is velvety and creamy.
- Start with a generous scoop of garlic parmesan rice at the base of each bowl. Top with caramelized veggies and sliced steak, then finish with a lavish drizzle of the creamy cheese sauce.