Introduction
Craving that delicious Philly cheesesteak flavor but want to stick to your meal prep goals? Look no further! This article provides a detailed guide on creating a mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak sandwich with peppers, perfectly prepped for a week of healthy and satisfying lunches or dinners. Say goodbye to unhealthy takeout and hello to a customizable, protein-packed meal you can look forward to all week long. We’ll cover everything from ingredient selection to storage tips, ensuring your cheesesteaks stay fresh and flavorful.
Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep: The Ultimate Guide
Selecting Your Ingredients
The key to a great Philly cheesesteak starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Steak: Opt for thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin. Pre-sliced steak from your butcher will save you time, or you can thinly slice it yourself. Look for steak that is labeled as “shaved” or “thinly sliced for cheesesteaks”.
- Peppers: Bell peppers are a classic choice. Use a mix of colors (green, red, yellow, orange) for added flavor and visual appeal. Poblano peppers also add a nice kick.
- Onions: Yellow or white onions are ideal. Caramelizing them adds depth of flavor.
- Cheese: Provolone is the traditional choice. However, white American cheese or even Cheez Whiz are popular alternatives.
- Bread: Hoagie rolls or Italian rolls are the go-to options. Choose rolls that are sturdy enough to hold the filling without getting soggy.
- Oil: Use a high-heat oil like avocado oil or canola oil for cooking.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are essential.
Prepping Your Ingredients
- Slice the Peppers and Onions: Cut the peppers and onions into thin strips. Uniform size ensures even cooking.
- Cook the Steak: Heat oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the steak in batches, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions and Peppers: In the same skillet, add a little more oil and cook the peppers and onions until softened and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Cheesesteak Filling: Combine the cooked steak, peppers, and onions in the skillet. Mix well.
Assembling Your Meal Prep
Now for the fun part – putting it all together!
- Option 1: Fully Assembled (Eat Sooner): For meal preps you plan to eat within 2-3 days, you can fully assemble the sandwiches. Portion the cheesesteak filling into the hoagie rolls, top with cheese, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. These may get a little soggy, so consume them early.
- Option 2: Deconstructed (Best for Longevity): For longer-lasting meal preps (up to 5 days), keep the components separate. Portion the cheesesteak filling into individual containers. Store the hoagie rolls separately in a bread bag or airtight container. Pack cheese slices in a separate bag or container. This keeps the bread from getting soggy.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage and reheating are crucial for maintaining flavor and freshness.
- Storage: Store your meal prep containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating (Fully Assembled): Wrap the sandwich in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, but the bread may become softer.
- Reheating (Deconstructed): Reheat the cheesesteak filling in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Warm the hoagie roll in the oven or toaster. Assemble the sandwich with the reheated filling and cheese.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Whiz Option: If you’re a fan of Cheez Whiz, add it to the cheesesteak filling during the last minute of reheating.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheesesteak filling for some extra heat.
- Healthy Swap: Use whole wheat hoagie rolls for a healthier option.
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Overcooked steak will be tough. Cook it quickly over high heat.
Conclusion
With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying Philly cheesesteak sandwiches with peppers all week long! This meal prep idea is a great way to control your portions, save money, and enjoy a classic comfort food without sacrificing your health goals. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or skillet), and get ready to meal prep your way to cheesesteak heaven! Remember to adjust the ingredients and variations to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!
