oven baked philly cheese steak sliders low calorie version

Introduction: Guilt-Free Philly Cheesesteak Sliders? Yes, Please!

Craving a Philly Cheesesteak but watching your waistline? You’re not alone! This recipe reimagines the classic comfort food into Oven Baked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders, packing all the flavor without the calorie overload. We’re talking juicy steak, melty cheese, and soft slider buns, all baked to golden perfection and guilt-free enjoyment. Prepare to indulge in a lower-calorie version of a beloved favorite that’s perfect for parties, game days, or a satisfying weeknight meal.

Making Healthy Choices Without Sacrificing Flavor

Lean Steak Selection is Key

The foundation of any great Philly Cheesesteak is, of course, the steak. To keep the calories down, opt for a lean cut like:

• Sirloin: A naturally lean and flavorful choice.
• Flank Steak: Another lean option that slices beautifully.
• Eye of Round: Very lean, but can become tough if overcooked, so be mindful of cooking time.

Trim off any excess visible fat before slicing to further reduce the calorie count.

Lightening Up the Cheese

Cheese is essential, but traditional choices like provolone can be calorie-dense. Consider these lighter alternatives:

• Part-Skim Mozzarella: Offers good meltability with fewer calories than full-fat versions.
• Provolone Light: Many brands offer a reduced-fat provolone that still delivers the classic taste.
• Laughing Cow Light Wedges: Surprisingly delicious and creamy, these can be spread thinly for a cheesy flavor boost.

Bread-Wise Decisions

The slider buns contribute significantly to the overall calorie count. Here’s how to make smarter choices:

• Whole Wheat Slider Buns: Provide more fiber and nutrients than white buns.
• Mini Buns: Choose smaller buns to automatically reduce portion size.
• Lettuce Wraps (optional): For a truly low-carb option, ditch the buns altogether and wrap the filling in crisp lettuce leaves.

Vegetable Power-Up

Don’t skimp on the veggies! Adding more onions and peppers not only enhances the flavor but also adds valuable nutrients and fiber.

• Onions: Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Choose your favorite colors (green, red, yellow, orange) for added nutrients and visual appeal.
• Mushrooms (optional): Sautéed mushrooms provide an earthy and savory element.

Smart Cooking Techniques

1. Baking vs. Frying: Baking the sliders eliminates the need for excessive oil.
2. Non-Stick Cookware: Use a non-stick skillet or baking sheet to minimize oil needed during cooking.
3. Lean Ground Beef Option: While traditionally steak, lean ground beef (93% or higher) can be substituted to make it even more budget friendly and easy to measure calorie intake.

Oven Baked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean sirloin steak, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
• 8-12 slider buns
• 4-6 ounces part-skim mozzarella or light provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced steak. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked steak with the sautéed onions and peppers.
6. Slice the slider buns in half. Place the bottom halves on a baking sheet.
7. Spoon the steak and vegetable mixture onto the bottom buns.
8. Top with cheese slices or shredded cheese.
9. Place the top halves of the slider buns on top.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the buns are lightly toasted.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy your low-calorie Oven Baked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders!

Conclusion: Indulge Smartly

With a few simple swaps and smart cooking techniques, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of a Philly Cheesesteak without the guilt. These Oven Baked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are a crowd-pleasing, healthier alternative that’s sure to become a new family favorite. So go ahead, satisfy your cravings and enjoy every bite of this lighter, flavorful twist on a classic!