Introduction
Craving a Philly cheesesteak but trying to cut carbs or avoid gluten? You’re in luck! This recipe delivers all the savory goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak with mushrooms and onions, but served without the traditional bread. It’s a fantastic option for keto, low-carb, and gluten-free diets, or simply a lighter way to enjoy this iconic sandwich. We’ll guide you through creating a delicious and satisfying breadless Philly cheesesteak packed with flavor.
The Breadless Philly Cheesesteak Experience
Choosing the Right Steak
The foundation of any great cheesesteak is the steak. For a tender and flavorful result, we recommend using:
- Ribeye: The classic choice! It’s well-marbled and full of flavor.
- Sirloin: A leaner option that still provides good flavor.
- Thinly Sliced Beef: Often found pre-sliced at the grocery store, making prep easier. Make sure it’s of good quality.
Pro Tip: Partially freezing the steak for about 30 minutes before slicing makes it much easier to achieve thin, even slices.
Sautéing the Mushrooms and Onions
The combination of caramelized onions and sautéed mushrooms adds depth and complexity to the cheesesteak. Here’s how to get it right:
- Slice the Onions: Thinly slice yellow or white onions.
- Slice the Mushrooms: Use your favorite mushrooms! Cremini, button, or portobello all work well.
- Sauté: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season: Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
Cooking the Steak
Cooking the steak quickly and efficiently is key to maintaining its tenderness:
- High Heat: Use a cast iron skillet or a large frying pan over high heat.
- Small Batches: Cook the steak in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and result in tough meat.
- Sear Quickly: Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Don’t overcook!
- Chop: Use a spatula to chop the steak into smaller pieces while it’s cooking.
- Combine: Add the sautéed onions and mushrooms to the skillet with the steak.
Choosing the Cheese
The cheese is crucial for that authentic Philly cheesesteak experience. Here are some popular options:
- Provolone: A classic choice with a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
- American Cheese: Melts beautifully and provides a creamy texture.
- Cheese Whiz: A controversial but beloved option for some!
- Mozzarella: Another great melting cheese.
Melting the Cheese: Top the steak, onions, and mushrooms mixture with your chosen cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two to allow the cheese to melt completely.
Serving Suggestions (Breadless)
Now for the best part: enjoying your breadless Philly cheesesteak! Here are some serving ideas:
- In a Bowl: Serve it as a flavorful and satisfying bowl meal.
- Over Salad: Top a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for a lighter option.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with the cheesesteak mixture and bake for a delicious and healthy meal.
- Egg Scramble: Mix it into a breakfast egg scramble.
Variations and Add-Ins
Want to customize your breadless Philly cheesesteak? Try these additions:
- Peppers: Add green bell peppers or hot cherry peppers for extra flavor and spice.
- Garlic: Add minced garlic to the onions and mushrooms while sautéing.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like paprika, oregano, or red pepper flakes.
- Sauces: Drizzle with your favorite sauces like hot sauce, sriracha mayo, or a creamy garlic sauce.
Conclusion
This breadless Philly cheesesteak with mushrooms and onions provides a delicious and guilt-free way to enjoy a classic comfort food. By focusing on high-quality ingredients and proper cooking techniques, you can create a satisfying and flavorful meal that fits your dietary needs. So go ahead, indulge in the taste of Philly without the bread!
