Philly Cheesesteak Bowl Recipe

If you’re craving the classic flavors of Philadelphia’s famous sandwich but want something a bit more comforting and bowl-friendly, this Philly Cheesesteak Bowl is an absolute home run. Picture tender, well-seasoned ground beef mingling with sautéed bell peppers and onions, all resting on a bed of fluffy rice and smothered in a rich, homemade white cheddar cheese sauce. This dish captures the essence of a Philly cheesesteak without the bread, making it perfect for anyone looking to indulge in familiar flavors with a fresh twist. Get ready for a bowl that’s warm, satisfying, and utterly delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Philly Cheesesteak Bowl relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that strike the perfect balance between rich, savory, and fresh. Each component adds its own magic to the texture, flavor, and overall appeal of the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that delivers juicy, savory flavor and protein.
• Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate the beef and veggies perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon butter (or plant-based butter): Adds richness and helps soften the peppers and onions.
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: For subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch.
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds bright color and a fresh, slightly bitter note.
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Balances out the green pepper with sweetness and vibrancy.
• 4 cups cooked rice: The comfy, fluffy base that holds all the flavors together.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Used in the cheese sauce to create a smooth roux.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce for that creamy indulgence.
• 1-2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Adds warmth and an irresistible punch to the cheese sauce.
• 1 1/2 cups half-&-half or dairy-free creamer*: The creamy liquid that makes the sauce dreamy and smooth.
• 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded: The star ingredient that brings that classic Philly cheesesteak vibe.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard: Adds a subtle tang that enhances the depth of the cheese sauce.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances flavors within the sauce and throughout the dish.
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick in the background of the cheese sauce.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Bowl

Step 1: Cook Ground Beef

Start by heating a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Season generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper as it cooks to build flavor right from the start. Keep moving the meat around until it’s fully browned and deliciously fragrant. Then, scoop it out with a slotted spoon into a bowl, leaving the grease behind for the veggies.

Step 2: Cook the Veggies

Using the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced red onion and both bell peppers. Let them sauté, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes or until slightly softened but still vibrant with a bit of crunch. These sautéed veggies bring that essential Philly cheesesteak color, texture, and a hint of natural sweetness to the bowl. Set them aside once done.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

This creamy cheese sauce is where the bowl truly shines. In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and minced garlic, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in the half-&-half or your chosen dairy-free creamer, whisking without pause to avoid lumps. Once it thickens, remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded white cheddar, ground mustard, salt, and pepper until silky and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl

Divide the cooked rice evenly among your serving bowls. Spoon the seasoned ground beef and sautéed peppers and onions over the top. Finally, drizzle the luscious cheese sauce generously so every bite has that savory, melty goodness. Dig in immediately and savor every comforting, flavorful spoonful!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Bowl

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that lifts the rich flavors of your Philly Cheesesteak Bowl. If you like a little heat, a few red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce make wonderful garnishes too. A light dusting of extra shredded white cheddar never hurts either!

Side Dishes

This bowl is filling enough to stand alone, but if you’re looking to round things out, a simple crisp green salad or some roasted garlic broccoli pairs beautifully. The freshness and crunch of veggies contrast delightfully with the creamy, meaty bowl. For a heartier meal, consider crispy roasted potatoes or garlic breadsticks to soak up any leftover cheese sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this Philly Cheesesteak Bowl at a casual gathering, consider laying everything out buffet style with bowls of rice, beef, sautéed vegetables, and cheese sauce for guests to build their own bowls. For an elegant touch, garnish individual bowls with microgreens or edible flowers. You can even use mini cast iron skillets for a charming presentation that keeps the bowl warm and inviting at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Bowl keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To avoid soggy rice, keep the cheese sauce separate if possible and add it back when reheating. The veggies and beef hold their flavor and texture well when stored properly.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked beef and sautéed vegetables separately in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. The rice and cheese sauce are better fresh but can be frozen with careful reheating. When freezing, label everything clearly for quick meal assembly later.

Reheating

Reheat the components gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the cheese sauce thickens too much, whisk in a splash of milk or creamer to return it to its glorious, pourable state. Combining everything in a warm skillet helps meld the flavors and keeps your Philly Cheesesteak Bowl tasting just like fresh.

FAQs

Can I use sliced steak instead of ground beef for the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin works wonderfully and brings you closer to the traditional Philly cheesesteak feel, though ground beef creates an easier, quicker version with all the essential flavors.

Is it possible to make the cheese sauce dairy-free?

Yes, simply swap the half-&-half with a creamy dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut creamer, and use a vegan cheddar-style cheese. Just make sure it melts well to keep that luscious texture.

What kind of rice is best for this dish?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works beautifully for fluffy, well-separated grains. Brown rice adds more chew and fiber but will change the texture of the bowl slightly.

Can I add other veggies to the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl?

Definitely! Mushrooms, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes can be great additions and customize the bowl to your preference while adding more nutrients and flavor complexity.

How spicy is the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl?

This recipe is mild by default, letting the savory, cheesy flavors shine. You can easily add chili flakes, hot sauce, or spicy mustard if you prefer a kick of heat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and satisfying about a Philly Cheesesteak Bowl, with its perfect harmony of juicy beef, vibrant veggies, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese sauce. It’s an easy, no-fuss meal that feels special any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make it a new family favorite or personalized go-to dinner. Once you have a bowl in hand, I’m pretty sure it’ll become just as beloved in your kitchen as it is in mine!

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