Description
Whip up a comforting and delicious Philly Cheesesteak Bowl in just 30 minutes! This hearty dish combines seasoned ground beef, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a creamy cheese sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for busy nights, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor, satisfying everyone at the table.
Ingredients
1 lb Lean Ground Beef: The hearty base of your bowl. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
2 tbsp Butter: Adds richness to sautéed veggies and cheese sauce.
1 Red Onion: Sweet and slightly sharp, perfect for sautéing.
1 Green Bell Pepper: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
1 Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and tender when sautéed.
3 cups Cooked White Rice: A comforting base for your beef and veggies.
1 tsp Salt: Seasoning to bring out the natural flavors.
1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Enhances the richness of the dish.
1 tbsp All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce for that velvety texture.
2 cloves Garlic: Minced, for a fragrant and savory touch.
1 cup Half-and-Half: Makes for a creamy cheese sauce.
1 cup Shredded White Cheddar Cheese: The key to that gooey, melty cheese sauce.
1/2 tsp Ground Mustard: Adds a subtle tang to the cheese sauce.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: For seasoning the sauce and adjusting flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat using a slotted spoon, then transfer the beef to a bowl.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tbsp butter. Toss in the red onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and lightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Whisk in 1 tbsp all-purpose flour and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Gradually add 1 cup half-and-half, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Once smooth, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 tsp ground mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Assemble the Philly Cheesesteak Bowls
In a large bowl, layer the warm cooked rice as the base. Top with the seasoned ground beef and sautéed vegetables. Drizzle generously with the creamy cheese sauce. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Tips for Success:
Prep ingredients beforehand to make the cooking process even faster.
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more half-and-half to reach your desired consistency.
Adjust seasonings to your family’s preferences, adding more mustard or garlic for an extra flavor kick.
Let the beef brown well before draining for a rich, caramelized flavor.
Equipment Needed:
Large Skillet: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables.
Medium Saucepan: To make the creamy cheese sauce.
Spatula: For stirring the ground beef and vegetables.
Whisk: To blend the cheese sauce smoothly.
Large Mixing Bowl: To assemble the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl.
Variations:
Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for lentils, mushrooms, or meatless crumbles.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef or cheese sauce.
Different Cheeses: Mix up the cheese sauce with mozzarella, Gouda, or even pepper jack for extra flavor.
Low-Carb: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a crisp side salad for a fresh contrast to the rich bowl.
Pair with a cold beverage like iced tea or a sparkling lemon water.
For extra crunch, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top.
FAQs about Philly Cheesesteak Bowl:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken will work perfectly as leaner alternatives.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef, sautéed veggies, and cheese sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat when ready to assemble.
Is the cheese sauce hard to make?
Not at all! The cheese sauce is easy and comes together in just a few minutes. It’s simply whisking flour, butter, and half-and-half, then adding cheese.
What can I serve with the Philly Cheesesteak Bowl?
Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or crispy roasted potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and it’s ready for anyone on a gluten-free diet.
