healthy philly cheese steak recipe low carb with caramelized onions

Introduction

Craving a classic Philly cheesesteak but watching your carb intake? You’re in luck! This recipe delivers all the deliciousness you expect, with a keto-friendly twist. We’re talking tender steak, gooey cheese, and the sweet, savory depth of caramelized onions, all nestled in a low-carb friendly setting. Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that will satisfy your cheesesteak desires.

The Healthy Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Steak: 1 pound thinly sliced steak (ribeye or sirloin work best)
• Onions: 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• Cheese: 4-6 slices provolone, white American, or mozzarella cheese
• Low-Carb Bread or Wraps: Your preferred keto-friendly bread or lettuce wraps
• Oil/Fat: 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder (to taste)
• Optional: Bell peppers (sliced), mushrooms (sliced), hot sauce

How to Caramelize Onions (The Right Way)

The key to a great Philly cheesesteak is perfectly caramelized onions. Here’s how to achieve that rich, sweet flavor:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-45 minutes, or until the onions are deeply golden brown and very soft. Patience is key! Don’t rush the process. Lower the heat if they start to burn.
4. If the onions start to stick, add a tablespoon of water to deglaze the pan.

Cooking the Steak

Now it’s time to cook the steak to juicy perfection:

1. Season the thinly sliced steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Heat a separate skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add a tablespoon of oil to the hot skillet.
4. Cook the steak in batches, stirring and breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s cooked through. This usually takes just a few minutes.
5. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Assembling Your Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak

Putting it all together is the final, and most exciting, step:

1. If using bell peppers and/or mushrooms, sauté them in the same skillet after cooking the steak.
2. Return the steak to the skillet with the caramelized onions and any sautéed vegetables.
3. Top the steak mixture with the cheese slices.
4. Cover the skillet with a lid or place it under the broiler for a minute or two, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Spoon the cheesesteak mixture into your low-carb bread, wraps, or lettuce wraps.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy! Add a dash of hot sauce if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Cheese Choice: Provolone is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with white American, mozzarella, or even a cheddar blend.
• Meat Prep: Partially freezing the steak before slicing makes it easier to cut thinly.
• Additions: Consider adding sauteed mushrooms, jalapenos, or your favorite low-carb toppings.
• Bread Alternatives: Lettuce wraps offer the lowest carb option. Look for keto-friendly breads or wraps at your local grocery store or online.
• Meal Prep: The caramelized onions and steak can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This healthy, low-carb Philly cheesesteak recipe proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to stay on track with your dietary goals. With tender steak, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that will leave you feeling good. So go ahead, indulge in this classic comfort food, guilt-free!