This Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is a tasty twist on the classic sandwich, made keto-friendly! You’ll enjoy juicy beef, melty cheese, and colorful peppers all in one pan.
It’s super easy to whip up, and you can eat it right from the skillet. I love to top mine with some hot sauce for a little kick—so good! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ribeye steak or sirloin: Thinly sliced beef is essential for a tender texture. I prefer ribeye for its rich flavor, but sirloin works just fine if you want a leaner option. You could even use chicken or turkey if you want to mix things up!
Pepper: The red bell pepper adds a nice sweetness and color. You could substitute it with green bell peppers for a sharper taste or even zucchini to keep it extra low-carb.
Cheese: I typically use mozzarella because it melts perfectly into stretchy goodness! Provolone is another great choice. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Onion: While optional for a keto diet, onions add flavor and sweetness. If you want to avoid carbs, you could skip them or use shallots, which are milder.
How Do You Get the Steak Just Right?
Cooking the steak correctly is crucial for this dish. Follow these steps to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak. This helps sear the meat quickly.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that nice browning.
- Don’t overcook! Cook just until browned and no pink remains—about 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked steak ready to mix with your veggies and cheese!
Philly Cheesesteak Skillet (Keto)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ribeye steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small onion, thinly sliced (optional for keto)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Philly Cheesesteak Skillet takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need approximately 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Let’s get started! First, heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. We want it hot enough to sear the meat nicely.
2. Cook the Steak:
Now, add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet. Season it with salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Stir frequently as it cooks until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 3-5 minutes. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the sliced red bell pepper, onion (if using), and minced garlic. Sauté these until the veggies are tender, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet and mix it in with the sautéed vegetables until everything is combined well.
5. Add Cheese:
Time for the fun part! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover it with a lid or some foil to help the cheese melt. Let it sit for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once the cheese looks deliciously gooey, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for garnish and serve hot straight from the skillet. Enjoy your tasty, keto-friendly Philly cheesesteak!
This cheesesteak skillet captures all the flavors of the classic dish while keeping things low-carb. Enjoy every cheesy bite! 🧀
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen steak, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. The most effective way is to place it in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, submerge the sealed package in cold water for an hour or two until it’s thawed.
What Can I Use Instead of Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based cheese that melts well. Nutritional yeast is also a great alternative for a cheesy flavor without the calories or dairy!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to enhance the veggie mix. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables may need a bit longer to become tender.
