Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups are everything you love about a traditional cheesesteak, reimagined into a low-carb, high-flavor dish that fits perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle. Instead of bread, thinly sliced steak wraps around a savory filling of sautéed peppers, onions, and melted cheese, creating a satisfying bite that feels indulgent yet balanced. I first tested this recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted something quick but hearty, and it immediately became a favorite. The roll-up format not only looks impressive on the plate but also helps lock in moisture and flavor. These roll-ups are versatile enough to serve as a main dish, party appetizer, or meal-prep option. Best of all, they come together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, proving that keto cooking can be both practical and deeply comforting.
Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups: A Low-Carb Comfort Food Classic
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Diabetic
Description
Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups are a low-carb twist on the classic sandwich, featuring tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted cheese rolled up without bread.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) thinly sliced beef sirloin or ribeye
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: mushrooms, sliced
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and bell peppers (and mushrooms if using) and sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced beef, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until just browned, about 3–4 minutes.
- Return the vegetables to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef.
- Reduce heat to low and lay provolone slices over the mixture. Cover until cheese is melted.
- Spoon portions onto a plate and roll tightly to form roll-ups.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- For easier rolling, use very thinly sliced beef.
- You can substitute provolone with mozzarella or cheddar.
- Great for meal prep and reheats well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Thinly sliced beef steak is the star of this recipe. Cuts such as sirloin or ribeye work best because they remain tender when cooked quickly and roll easily without tearing.
Bell peppers add sweetness and color. Green peppers provide a classic cheesesteak flavor, while red or yellow peppers bring a slightly sweeter note.
Onions contribute depth and savoriness. When sautéed, they soften and develop a mild sweetness that balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
Cheese is essential for that authentic cheesesteak experience. Provolone is traditional, offering a smooth melt and mild flavor, but mozzarella or white American cheese also work beautifully.
Olive oil helps sauté the vegetables and prevents sticking, adding subtle richness without overpowering the dish.
Garlic enhances the overall flavor profile. Cooked briefly, it adds aroma and warmth without becoming sharp.
Salt and black pepper season the filling and steak, ensuring every bite is well balanced and flavorful.
Directions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 6 to 8 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, then remove the mixture from the skillet and set aside.
Lay the steak slices flat on a clean surface and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Place a spoonful of the vegetable mixture in the center of each slice, followed by a portion of cheese.
Carefully roll the steak around the filling, securing it seam-side down. Return the skillet to medium-high heat and place the roll-ups in the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the steak is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
Remove from heat and allow the roll-ups to rest briefly before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can toughen the steak.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is easy to adapt to personal preferences. For extra richness, add sliced mushrooms to the vegetable filling. They bring an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with beef.
If you prefer a spicier version, include sliced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. The heat contrasts nicely with the melted cheese.
Cheese choices can dramatically change the character of the dish. Provolone keeps it classic, while pepper jack adds heat and cheddar brings sharpness. I have even tried a cheese blend for a more complex flavor.
For a dairy-free version, use a keto-friendly dairy-free cheese alternative and increase the seasoning slightly to compensate.
You can also bake the roll-ups instead of pan-frying them. Arrange them in a baking dish and cook in a hot oven until the steak is just done and the cheese is melted.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Protein (g) | 32 |
| Carbs (g) | 6 |
| Fat (g) | 24 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 10 |
| Fiber (g) | 1 |
| Sugar (g) | 3 |
| Sodium (mg) | 620 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Choose the right cut
Tender cuts like ribeye prevent chewiness and roll easily.
Do not overfill
Too much filling makes rolling difficult and causes cheese leakage.
Cook quickly
High heat and short cooking time keep the steak juicy.
Rest before serving
A short rest helps the roll-ups hold their shape.
Season thoughtfully
Balance salt carefully, especially when using salty cheeses.
FAQs
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups a few hours in advance and cook just before serving.
Are these strictly keto-friendly?
Yes, they are low in carbs and suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Can I freeze the roll-ups?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the steak may change.
What is the best cheese for melting?
Provolone and mozzarella melt smoothly and evenly.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, thinly sliced chicken breast works well as an alternative.
How do I keep the roll-ups from unrolling?
Place them seam-side down in the skillet and avoid moving them too early.
Can I add sauces?
A keto-friendly cheese sauce or garlic butter works well.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, they reheat well when warmed gently.
Can I grill them?
Yes, use skewers to secure the roll-ups and grill over medium heat.
What can I serve with them?
They pair well with a simple keto salad or roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups deliver classic comfort food flavor in a low-carb, satisfying form. With tender beef, savory vegetables, and melted cheese, they are proof that keto meals can be both indulgent and practical. This recipe is sure to become a staple for quick dinners and special occasions alike.
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