Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal: the Philly Cheesesteak Skillet! This incredibly easy and satisfying dish captures all the beloved, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, but without the bread. It’s a perfect solution for those seeking a delicious, hearty meal that’s naturally low in carbohydrates and keto-friendly, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of dietary preferences. Imagine tender, seasoned ground beef mingling with perfectly sautéed bell peppers and onions, all smothered under a blanket of gooey, melted cheese. This one-pan wonder delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, transforming a beloved sandwich into a comforting, skillet-friendly supper.
A Delectable & Convenient Philly Cheesesteak Skillet Experience
There’s something uniquely satisfying about a Philly Cheesesteak. The combination of thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, sautéed peppers, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. However, sometimes we’re looking for a lighter option, or perhaps just a quicker way to enjoy these iconic flavors. That’s where our Philly Cheesesteak Skillet shines. This recipe perfectly recreates the essence of the sandwich in a skillet format, offering a delightful alternative that is both incredibly easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful. It’s designed to be a lifesaver on busy weeknights, going from pantry to plate in just about 30 minutes. Forget the takeout; you can have this restaurant-quality meal on your table faster than delivery!
The beauty of this skillet meal lies in its simplicity and versatility. By swapping the traditional hoagie roll for a medley of vibrant vegetables, we enhance the nutritional value while keeping the dish inherently low-carb. The ground beef provides a robust, meaty base, while a trio of bell peppers (green, red, and yellow) adds natural sweetness, a slight crunch, and a burst of color. The secret ingredient, a touch of Worcestershire sauce, deepens the savory profile, creating a truly authentic cheesesteak experience. Whether you’re adhering to a specific diet or simply seeking a fresh, exciting dinner idea, this Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is a guaranteed family favorite that everyone will adore.
“This was delicious and easy! A must try. I didn’t change anything in the recipe.
– Brenda”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! If you’re a chicken enthusiast or simply looking for a leaner alternative, ground chicken or even thinly sliced chicken breast works wonderfully in this recipe. The key is to ensure it’s cooked through and seasoned well to absorb those delicious Philly cheesesteak flavors. You can achieve a fantastic Chicken Philly Skillet with just a few adjustments, perhaps sautéing the chicken until golden brown before adding the vegetables.
Do I have to use tri-colored peppers?
Not at all! While the tri-colored peppers (green, red, and yellow) add a beautiful visual appeal and a slightly varied sweetness to the dish, feel free to use any combination you prefer. Many people enjoy the classic green bell pepper flavor, but if you find it too strong, milder yellow and red peppers are excellent choices. You could even incorporate other vegetables like sliced mushrooms or jalapeños for an extra kick and depth of flavor, making this dish truly your own.
What cheese is best for this recipe?
For an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, provolone or mozzarella cheese are our top recommendations. Provolone offers a sharper, more distinct flavor that melts beautifully, while mozzarella provides a milder taste and that classic stretchy, gooey texture. However, don’t limit yourself! Experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar for a bolder taste, or creamy Gouda for a nutty undertone. A blend of cheeses can also create a fantastic complex flavor and melt. The goal is a rich, melted cheese layer that ties all the ingredients together.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! This recipe is incredibly adaptable, and doubling it is a breeze if you have a larger family or are hosting guests. Just ensure you use a sufficiently large skillet to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of sautéing. If your skillet isn’t large enough, you might consider cooking the ground beef in batches and then combining everything in a bigger pot or roasting pan before adding the cheese to melt.
Is the Worcestershire sauce necessary?
While not strictly “necessary” for the dish to be tasty, the Worcestershire sauce plays a significant role in enhancing the overall flavor. It adds a wonderful umami depth and a subtle tangy sweetness that truly elevates the savory beef and vegetables. We highly recommend including it for the best possible flavor profile. If you don’t have any on hand or prefer to omit it, the dish will still be delicious, but you might notice a slight difference in the richness of the flavor. A splash of soy sauce or even a tiny amount of beef bouillon dissolved in water could be an alternative for some of that savory depth.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is simple, making this an excellent meal prep option! Allow the skillet to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a heavy-duty ziptop bag. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, though the skillet method helps maintain the texture of the vegetables and beef, and ensures the cheese re-melts beautifully.
Essential Ingredients for Your Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
Crafting this flavorful Philly Cheesesteak Skillet requires a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. The quality of each component contributes to the overall deliciousness, so choose fresh produce and good quality beef and cheese for the best results. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef: We use 1 ½ pounds of ground beef, which provides a hearty base for the skillet. You can choose a leaner blend (like 90/10) if you prefer less grease, or an 80/20 for richer flavor, just be sure to drain any excess fat thoroughly.
- Butter: A tablespoon of salted butter is essential for sautéing the vegetables, adding a rich, golden hue and a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Yellow Onion: One medium yellow onion, sliced, caramelizes beautifully and provides a foundational sweetness and savory aroma.
- Bell Peppers: One green bell pepper, ½ red bell pepper, and ½ yellow bell pepper, all sliced, offer a vibrant mix of colors and varying degrees of sweetness, mimicking the classic Philly sandwich filling.
- Beef Broth: ¼ cup of beef broth adds moisture and helps create a savory sauce, ensuring the dish isn’t dry.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce is a flavor powerhouse, providing essential umami and a slight tang that deepens the savory notes of the beef.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon of garlic powder infuses the dish with aromatic garlic flavor without the need for mincing fresh cloves.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon of onion powder complements the fresh onion, adding another layer of sweet, savory onion flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, these basic seasonings are crucial for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese: 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (provolone or mozzarella are recommended) creates the iconic melted, gooey topping that makes a cheesesteak truly special.
- Minced Parsley (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle of fresh minced parsley adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Skillet: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this satisfying Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal every time:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef.
Begin by cooking 1 ½ pounds of ground beef in a large, sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. As it cooks, break it apart with a spoon until it’s beautifully browned and crumbled. Season it lightly with salt and pepper during this process to build flavor from the start. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet thoroughly. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy final dish. Transfer the cooked beef to a separate bowl and set it aside for a moment.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions.
Return the skillet to medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of salted butter. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the sliced medium yellow onion to the pan. Sauté the onions for 1-2 minutes until they begin to soften and become translucent. This initial sauté allows the onions to release their natural sweetness and develop a richer flavor before the peppers are introduced.
Step 3: Add the Bell Peppers.
Now, add the sliced bell peppers – 1 green bell pepper, ½ red bell pepper, and ½ yellow bell pepper – to the skillet with the onions. Continue to sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp, which typically takes another 2-4 minutes. You want them softened but still with a slight bite, adding a pleasant texture contrast to the dish.
Step 4: Soften Vegetables.
Step 5: Combine with Beef and Seasonings.
Return the browned ground beef to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Add ¼ cup of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly coated with the rich seasonings and broth. This step infuses all the elements with a cohesive, savory flavor.
Step 6: Simmer to Reduce Liquid.
Allow the mixture to simmer on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. During this time, the liquid from the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce will reduce, concentrating the flavors and creating a rich, luscious sauce that coats the beef and vegetables perfectly. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese.
Generously top the meat and vegetable mixture with 1 ½ cups of shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a wonderfully gooey, irresistible layer. The steam trapped by the lid will help the cheese melt quickly and evenly, creating that signature cheesesteak topping.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve.
Once the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with 2 tablespoons of fresh minced parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and a touch of fresh herbaceousness. Serve your delicious Philly Cheesesteak Skillet immediately and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Meal
This Philly Cheesesteak Skillet isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a game-changer for your meal rotation. Here’s why it’s destined to become a household favorite:
- Effortlessly Quick: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20, you can have a wholesome, homemade meal on the table in under half an hour. Perfect for hectic weeknights!
- Low Carb & Keto-Friendly: By omitting the traditional bun, this dish naturally fits into low-carb and keto diets without sacrificing any of the classic flavors.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender-crisp bell peppers and onions, and gooey melted cheese creates a rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying taste experience.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means less cleanup for you! Who doesn’t love fewer dishes?
- Family-Friendly: This hearty meal appeals to almost everyone, even picky eaters. It’s a comforting dish that brings people to the table.
- Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap proteins, add different veggies, or vary the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
While the Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side can enhance your dining experience. Here are a few ideas:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet.
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans roasted with a little garlic and olive oil make an excellent, healthy side.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve the skillet over a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice, which will absorb all the delicious juices.
- Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy mashed cauliflower can provide a comforting, carb-conscious alternative to mashed potatoes.
- Crusty Bread (if not low-carb): If you’re not concerned about carbs, a warm, crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and cheese.
- Pickle Spears: A tangy pickle offers a nice palate cleanser between bites.
Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
Achieving a truly exceptional Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is all about technique and a few key considerations. Keep these tips in mind to elevate your dish:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the beef or sautéing the vegetables, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of proper browning and caramelization, which are crucial for flavor development.
- Drain Excess Grease: After cooking the ground beef, make sure to thoroughly drain any excess fat. This prevents the final dish from being overly greasy and allows the other flavors to shine.
- Slice Vegetables Evenly: Uniformly sliced onions and bell peppers ensure they cook at the same rate and have a consistent texture in every bite. Aim for thin, even slices.
- Quality Cheese Matters: Choose good quality provolone or mozzarella (or your preferred blend) that melts well. Freshly shredded cheese often melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, which can contain anti-caking agents.
- Simmer for Flavor: Don’t rush the simmering step after adding the broth and Worcestershire. Allowing the liquid to reduce concentrates the flavors and creates a richer sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end. Different beef broths and Worcestershire sauces can vary in sodium content, so season to your preference.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is how easily it can be customized to suit your taste or what you have available. Get creative with these variations:
- Protein Swap: Instead of ground beef, use ground chicken, ground turkey, or thinly sliced steak (like ribeye or sirloin) for a more traditional cheesesteak feel. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Add More Veggies: Sliced mushrooms, finely chopped spinach, or even a handful of thinly sliced zucchini can be added alongside the bell peppers and onions for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other seasonings, or sauté some sliced jalapeños with the bell peppers.
- Cheese Blends: Experiment with different cheese combinations. A mix of provolone and cheddar, or a blend that includes a smoky cheese like smoked Gouda, can add exciting dimensions.
- Creamy Twist: For a richer, creamier skillet, stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream before melting the shredded cheese.
- Make it Loaded: Top with cooked bacon bits or green onions after melting the cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
WANT MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES?
- Philly Cheesesteak Cups
- Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini
- Chicken Philly Sandwiches
- Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread
- Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
- Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole
- Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
- Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring
- Chicken Philly Casserole
- BBQ Chicken Potato Skillet
- Skillet Lasagna
- French Dip Sliders
- Italian Tortellini Skillet Dinner
Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
Super easy and tasty, this Philly Cheesesteak Skillet has all the fun flavors of the sandwich but without the bun!
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Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 Tablespoon salted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- ½ red bell pepper, sliced
- ½ yellow bell pepper, sliced
- ¼ cup beef broth
- 1 Tablespoon worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 2 Tablespoons minced parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook 1 ½ pounds ground beef over medium high heat (season with a little salt and pepper to taste) until brown and crumbled. Drain any excess grease and set beef aside.
- Add 1 Tablespoon salted butter to the pan then add 1 medium yellow onion, sliced. Saute over medium heat for 1-2 minutes then add 1 green bell pepper, sliced, ½ red bell pepper, sliced, ½ yellow bell pepper, sliced. Continue to saute until vegetables are softened, about another 2-4 minutes.
- Return the ground beef to the pan along with 1/4 cup beef broth, 1 Tablespoon worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder and salt and pepper, to taste. Stir until combined and simmer on medium heat until liquid is reduced, about 2-3 minutes.
- Top the meat and vegetable mixture with 1 ½ cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese – cover and allow to melt. Once melted remove from heat and garnish with 2 Tablespoons minced parsley (optional). Serve immediately.
Notes
- This can easily be doubled.
- You can swap out chicken or even steak for the ground beef.
- Use any color peppers you like, we like to use tri colored.
- This will store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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