Oh, the Philly cheesesteak – that glorious mess of juicy beef, melty cheese, and caramelized onions that makes your taste buds sing! But here’s the thing: my family’s been on a keto kick lately, and I just couldn’t give up our favorite sandwich. That’s how these keto Philly cheesesteak roll-ups were born. Picture all that amazing flavor wrapped up in gooey provolone instead of bread – pure genius if I do say so myself!
I’ll never forget the first time I served these at our Sunday family dinner. My carb-loving uncle took one skeptical bite… then immediately asked for seconds. Now they’re our go-to when we need something quick, satisfying, and totally low-carb. The best part? You can whip them up faster than it takes to wait in line at a Philly sandwich shop!
- Why You’ll Love These Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
- Ingredients for Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
- How to Make Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
- Tips for Perfect Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
- Variations of Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
- Serving Suggestions for Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
- Storing and Reheating Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
- Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups FAQs
- Nutritional Information
Why You’ll Love These Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
Let me tell you why these roll-ups have become my weeknight superhero:
- Crazy quick – From fridge to table in under 30 minutes (perfect for those “what’s for dinner?!” panic moments)
- Low-carb magic – All the cheesesteak flavor without the bread coma
- Flavor bomb – That sizzling steak, melty cheese, and caramelized veggies? Yes please!
- Totally customizable – Add mushrooms, swap cheeses, or kick up the heat with some jalapeños
- Kid-approved – My picky eaters gobble these up like they’re going out of style
Trust me, once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Ingredients for Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
Okay, let’s talk ingredients – and I mean the good stuff! The secret to these roll-ups is using quality ingredients that pack maximum flavor. Here’s exactly what you’ll need (and why each one matters):
The Meat
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak – Don’t skimp here! Ask your butcher to slice it paper-thin against the grain. This makes all the difference between tough chewy bites and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
The Veggies
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips – I like mine with a bit of crunch still left, so I cut them about 1/4 inch thick.
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced – Yellow onions work great, but sometimes I use sweet Vidalias when I want extra caramelization.
The Cheese (The Star of the Show!)
- 4 slices provolone cheese – The classic Philly choice! Make sure it’s the good melty kind – none of that pre-sliced plastic-y stuff.
The Seasonings
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For that perfect sizzle in the pan.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – My little flavor booster that makes everything better.
- 1 tsp salt – Kosher salt is my go-to for even seasoning.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground if you’ve got it!
See? Nothing fancy or hard to find – just simple, real ingredients that work together like magic. Now let’s get cooking!
How to Make Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
Alright, let’s get down to business! These roll-ups come together so fast you’ll barely have time to set the table. I’ll walk you through each step just like I do when teaching my kids – simple, clear, and with all my little tricks included.
Step 1: Sizzle Those Veggies
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it shimmers (that’s when you know it’s ready!), toss in your sliced peppers and onions. Now here’s my secret – don’t stir them too much! Let them get a nice char in spots, stirring just occasionally. You want them softened but still with some bite – about 5 minutes should do it. That caramelization is where the magic happens!
Step 2: Beef It Up
Push your veggies to one side of the pan and add your thinly sliced ribeye. Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper right over the top. Let it sear for about 30 seconds before stirring – this gives it that beautiful browned crust. Keep cooking until the steak loses its pink color, about 2-3 minutes total. Pro tip: If your pan looks dry, add just a splash more oil. We’re going for juicy, not steamed!
Step 3: Cheese Time!
Lay out your provolone slices on a clean surface – I use a big cutting board. Divide the hot steak and veggie mixture evenly among the cheese slices, piling it right down the center. Work quickly here while everything’s still piping hot – that heat helps the cheese get perfectly melty.
Step 4: Roll It Like You Mean It
Now for the fun part! Starting at one end, tightly roll up each cheese slice around the filling. Don’t be shy – really tuck and roll with confidence. The cheese will stretch and seal as it cools slightly. If some filling escapes, just tuck it back in – these are supposed to be rustic and delicious, not perfect!
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Transfer your roll-ups to plates right away – that ooey-gooey cheese waits for no one! I like to cut them in half on the diagonal to show off all that beautiful filling. Watch out for cheese strings – they’re half the fun but can be sneaky when they’re hot!
See? Told you it was easy! From start to finish, you’re looking at about 15 minutes of active cooking time for a meal that tastes like you spent hours. Now go enjoy your masterpiece – you’ve earned it!
Tips for Perfect Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
After making these roll-ups more times than I can count (seriously, my family requests them weekly!), I’ve picked up some game-changing tricks. These little secrets take them from good to “oh-my-goodness-I-need-another-one” amazing:
Get That Steak Paper-Thin
Here’s the truth – your roll-ups will only be as good as your steak slices. I always ask my butcher to shave the ribeye super thin (about 1/8 inch). If you’re doing it at home, pop the meat in the freezer for 20 minutes first – it firms up just enough to slice like a dream. And always cut against the grain – this breaks up those muscle fibers so every bite stays tender.
Cheese Melting Magic
Provolone can be tricky – too cold and it won’t roll, too hot and it turns into a puddle. My sweet spot? Let the cheese sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before assembling. When you add the piping hot filling, it gets perfectly pliable without becoming a mess. If your kitchen’s cold, you can briefly warm each slice between your palms – just don’t overdo it!
Veggies With Bite
Soggy veggies are the enemy of good roll-ups! I cook my peppers and onions just until they start to soften but still have some crunch. And here’s my secret weapon – after sautéing, I’ll sometimes spread them on a paper towel-lined plate for a minute to absorb excess moisture. It makes all the difference in keeping your roll-ups from getting watery.
The Tight Roll Technique
Watching my roll-ups unravel used to drive me crazy! Now I use this foolproof method: place the filling slightly off-center on the cheese slice. Fold the shorter end over first, tuck it under the filling, then roll away from you while gently pulling back to keep it tight. If the cheese starts to tear (it happens!), just patch it with a little extra from the edges.
Remember – practice makes perfect! My first few attempts were… let’s just say “rustic.” But now I can whip these up with my eyes closed (not that I recommend trying that with a hot skillet!).
Variations of Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can mix it up! Sometimes I get playful in the kitchen and swap ingredients based on what’s in my fridge or just what mood strikes me. Here are my go-to twists that keep this dish exciting:
Mushroom Lover’s Version
Oh boy, if you’re a mushroom fan like me, you’ve gotta try this! I swap out the bell peppers for a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms. Slice them thick so they stay meaty, and let them get nice and golden in the pan – that deep umami flavor pairs perfectly with the steak. Sometimes I’ll even add a splash of Worcestershire sauce (just check the carbs!) for extra richness. My husband claims this version tastes “fancy restaurant good,” and who am I to argue?
Cheese Swap Extravaganza
While provolone is classic, don’t be afraid to play cheese roulette! My kids go nuts when I use pepper jack for a spicy kick. For something more indulgent, try sharp white cheddar – it gets beautifully creamy when melted. And on special occasions? A mix of mozzarella for stretchiness and a little blue cheese crumbled in for punch. Just remember – the cheesier the better in my book!
Spicy Southwest Twist
When I’m craving heat, I ditch the green peppers for poblano or jalapeño slices (seeds removed if you’re not feeling brave). A sprinkle of chili powder and cumin in with the seasonings takes it south of the border. Top with a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices if you’re feeling fancy. This version always disappears fastest at potlucks – consider yourself warned!
The beauty is there’s no wrong way to do it – that’s the joy of cooking! What creative combos will you come up with?
Serving Suggestions for Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
Now that you’ve got these gorgeous roll-ups ready, let’s talk about how to serve them up right! I’ve tried all sorts of pairings over the years, and these are my absolute favorite ways to turn these roll-ups into a complete keto feast:
The Classic Combo
You can’t go wrong with a crisp side salad! I love tossing together baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. The fresh crunch balances out the rich roll-ups perfectly. Sometimes I’ll add some sliced radishes for extra bite – my grandma always said they help cut through the richness of the cheese.
Cauliflower Mash Magic
Oh, this is my comfort food dream! Creamy cauliflower mash makes the ultimate cozy side. I steam the florets until fork-tender, then blend them with butter, a splash of heavy cream, and a generous pinch of salt. Pro tip: Add a clove of roasted garlic for next-level flavor. The velvety texture is just begging to be paired with those juicy roll-ups!
Zoodle Twist
When I want something lighter, zucchini noodles are my go-to. Just quickly sauté them in the same pan after cooking the roll-ups (hello, flavor bonus!). A squeeze of lemon and some fresh parsley brightens everything up. My kids call this their “green spaghetti” dinner – little do they know they’re eating their veggies!
Game Day Platter
For parties, I arrange the roll-ups on a big platter with celery sticks, pepperoni chips, and a bowl of spicy mayo for dipping. It’s always the first thing to disappear! The best part? No one even misses the carbs when you’ve got this much flavor going on.
Remember – there’s no wrong way to enjoy these roll-ups! Sometimes I even eat them straight off the cutting board while standing at the counter (don’t tell my mom). What’s your favorite way to serve them?
Storing and Reheating Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
Okay, let’s be real – these roll-ups are so delicious they rarely last long in my house! But on the off chance you have leftovers (or you’re smart and made extra), here’s exactly how to keep them tasting fresh and fabulous:
The Best Way to Store Leftovers
First rule – let them cool slightly before storing, but don’t wait too long! I like to transfer my roll-ups to an airtight container while they’re still slightly warm. This prevents condensation from making them soggy. Layer them between parchment paper if stacking – nobody wants cheese glued together! They’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Like a Pro
Microwaving is tempting, but trust me – the oven is your friend here! Preheat to 350°F and place roll-ups on a baking sheet. Give them about 5-7 minutes until the cheese gets gooey again. For extra crispness, pop them under the broiler for the last 30 seconds. Watch closely though – they go from perfect to overdone in a flash!
Freezing for Future Cravings
Yes, you can freeze these! Wrap each cooled roll-up individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for about a month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge first, then use the oven method above. The texture changes slightly, but they’re still crazy good – perfect for those “I need dinner NOW” emergencies!
Pro tip: If your reheated roll-ups seem dry, drizzle a tiny bit of beef broth over them before warming. It brings back that juicy goodness without adding carbs. Now you’ve got no excuse not to make a double batch next time!
Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups FAQs
I get asked about these roll-ups all the time – seems like everyone wants to make them their own! Here are the most common questions that pop up, along with my tried-and-true answers:
Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced chicken breast works great if you’re not feeling the beef. I like to pound it to about 1/4 inch thickness before slicing – helps it cook evenly. Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time since chicken needs to reach 165°F. My kids actually prefer the chicken version with some smoked paprika mixed into the seasoning!
What’s the best way to make these ahead?
Here’s my party trick: prep the filling up to a day in advance and store it separately from the cheese. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the filling (a quick minute in the microwave works), assemble, and roll. The cheese stays fresh, and the hot filling makes it perfectly melty. Works like a charm for game day or potlucks!
Any good cheese substitutes for provolone?
Oh, the possibilities! Swiss cheese gives a nice nutty flavor, while mozzarella gives you those Instagram-worthy cheese pulls. For something bolder, try sharp cheddar or even gouda. If you’re dairy-free, I’ve had success with Violife’s plant-based provolone – just be sure to warm it slightly before rolling so it’s pliable.
Why did my cheese tear when rolling?
Been there! Usually means your filling was too hot or the cheese too cold. Let the filling cool for about 3 minutes before assembling, and make sure your cheese is at room temp. If it still gives you trouble, try doubling up the cheese slices – the extra layer makes rolling much easier.
Can I add other veggies to the filling?
Please do! Mushrooms are my favorite addition – they soak up all those delicious meat juices. Zucchini slices, spinach, or even roasted red peppers work great too. Just be sure to sauté any watery veggies first to drive off excess moisture. The more colorful, the better in my book!
Got more questions? Drop them in the comments – I love hearing how you’re making this recipe your own!
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s talk numbers – but don’t worry, these are the good kind! Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (that’s one glorious roll-up). Keep in mind these are estimates since ingredients can vary, but they’ll give you a great ballpark for your macros:
- Calories: 320 – Just enough to satisfy without overdoing it
- Fat: 22g – All that delicious ribeye and cheese goodness
- Protein: 25g – Perfect for keeping you full and energized
- Total Carbs: 6g – Low enough to keep you in ketosis
- Fiber: 1g – From those beautiful veggies
- Net Carbs: 5g – Now that’s what I call keto-friendly!
A quick note from my nutritionist side: these values can change slightly based on your exact ingredients. Using different cheese brands or adding extra veggies will tweak the numbers a bit. But no matter what, you’re looking at a meal that’s packed with flavor while keeping carbs in check. That’s what I call a win-win!
PrintKeto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups: 5-Star Flavor in 15 Minutes
A delicious low-carb twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, these roll-ups are packed with flavor and perfect for a keto-friendly meal.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced bell pepper and onion, sauté until softened.
- Add ribeye steak slices, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until steak is browned.
- Lay out provolone cheese slices and evenly distribute the steak and vegetable mixture on top.
- Roll up tightly and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use thinly sliced steak for best results.
- Add mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of low-carb dipping sauce if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll-up
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg