After a marathon day of juggling work and errands, I found myself staring into the fridge, longing for something homemade that wasn’t another boring takeout meal. That’s when I thought about the comforting, hearty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, but with a twist. What if I could bring all that deliciousness into a quick meal prep bowl?
This Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep is everything you crave—tender ground beef, caramelized peppers and onions, and ooey-gooey cheese, all served over fluffy rice—minus the bread. It’s customizable to fit any dietary needs, whether you’re looking to cut carbs or simply want to switch up the proteins or veggies.
With just a bit of chopping and sautéing, you can create a week’s worth of satisfying meals that taste as good on day one as they do on day four. Trust me, your future self will thank you for making this dish a regular in your meal rotation!
Why Love Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep?
Convenience at Its Finest: Meal prepping this dish means you’ll have hearty servings ready to go, saving you time on busy weekdays.
Bold Flavors: The delicious blend of sautéed veggies, tangy Worcestershire sauce, and melty cheese delivers a taste that rivals any cheesesteak shop.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize the protein or swap in cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, making it perfect for any dietary needs.
Satisfying Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast of tender ground beef, crisp veggies, and creamy cheese over the rice base—every bite is a taste sensation!
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is not just for solo meals; it’s great for family dinners, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full.
Plus, you’ll revel in the joy of knowing you’ve prepared a wholesome meal from scratch—a comforting, guilt-free indulgence!
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep Ingredients
For the Protein
• Lean Ground Beef – The heart of this dish, load it with flavor! You can substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
For the Veggies
• Green Bell Peppers – Adds a sweet crunch that complements the beef perfectly. Feel free to swap for red or yellow peppers for a pop of color!
• Onions – Infuse aromatic goodness into your meal. Shallots are a wonderful alternative for a milder flavor.
• Sliced Mushrooms – Brings umami richness to the bowl; zucchini or carrots can also add a fresh twist.
For the Flavor
• Worcestershire Sauce – A splash of tangy goodness that elevates all the flavors—soy sauce serves as a nice substitute if needed.
• Beef Broth – Keeps the mixture moist and adds depth; vegetable broth works well for a lighter taste.
For the Cheese
• Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or Provolone) – Melty and creamy, it binds everything together; try cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.
For the Base
• Cooked Basmati Rice – The perfect cushion for those hearty toppings. Swap in quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative!
How to Make Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep
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Cook Rice: Follow the package instructions for the basmati rice; this typically takes about 15 minutes. Set it aside once fluffy and cooked to perfection.
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Sauté Veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions, green bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
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Brown Beef: In the same skillet, add the lean ground beef. Cook it over medium-high heat until browned, which takes around 6-8 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a cleaner taste.
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Add Flavor: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth to the skillet with the beef. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes. Return the sautéed veggies to the skillet, mixing everything well to combine those robust flavors.
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Melt Cheese: Sprinkle your shredded cheese over the beef and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cook until the cheese is melted and gooey—about 3-5 minutes.
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Assemble Meal Prep: Divide the cooked rice and the beef-cheesesteak mixture evenly into 8 meal prep containers. This hearty dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for your meal prep!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep?
Looking to create a memorable meal that’ll excite your taste buds? Here are some fantastic pairings that will complement your Philly cheesesteak bowls beautifully!
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Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfect for those who still want that classic cheesesteak experience; the garlic adds a punchy flavor that pairs wonderfully with cheesy beef.
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Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch that balances the hearty cheesesteak. The tanginess brightens up the meal, cutting through the richness of the cheese.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor enhances the dish while adding a slight crispiness. Toss them in olive oil and a pinch of salt for a delightful side.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic comfort food that offers a buttery, smooth contrast to the savory beef. They’re sure to make your meal feel even more indulgent.
For a simple twist, consider a side of roasted sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of your cheesesteak bowls.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink is perfect for cutting through the richness of your meal, adding a zesty twist that quenches your thirst.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, nothing hits the spot quite like warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies. Their sweet richness is the perfect finish to a wholesome meal.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep Variations
Customize your meal prep bowls to suit your taste and dietary needs with these delightful twists!
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish, or try veggie crumbles for a vegetarian alternative.
- Rice Alternatives: For a hearty experience without the carbs, substitute basmati rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or a smoked variant for a layer of richness and depth.
- Veggie Upgrade: Mix in sweet corn, fresh spinach, or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor in every bite.
- Seasoning Boost: Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of complexity to the dish.
- Heat Factor: Kick it up a notch by adding jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy edge to your cheesesteak bowls.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream to create an ultra-rich and decadent sauce.
- Garnish Variety: Finish with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of parsley to add a unique flavor twist.
Every variation brings a new experience to the table, making each meal exciting and fresh!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep
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Drain Fat Well: After browning the ground beef, always drain excess fat to prevent a greasy mixture during reheating, ensuring every bite remains satisfying.
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Opt for Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded; avoid anti-caking agents for a creamier cheese topping that enhances the Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep experience.
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Use Large Skillet: A larger skillet can hold all ingredients comfortably, reducing the risk of overflow and ensuring even cooking, so your flavors meld perfectly.
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Customize Protein Wisely: Feel free to swap proteins—ground turkey or chicken can work just as well, but keep an eye on cooking times to maintain juiciness.
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Perfectly Cooked Rice: Ensuring the rice is cooked properly is crucial; overcooked rice can turn mushy. Follow the package directions closely for the best results.
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep
Fridge: Keep your meal prep bowls stored in airtight containers to maintain freshness for up to 4 days. This will help retain the delicious flavors and textures.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meal prep bowls for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw your Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep overnight in the fridge for the best results before reheating.
Reheating: Microwave each bowl for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Stir halfway for even heating, ensuring you enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep Bowls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can sauté the veggies and brown the ground beef up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store these components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef and veggie mixture in a skillet on medium heat until heated through, sprinkle in the cheese, cover, and allow it to melt—this keeps everything creamy and delicious. Serve it over freshly cooked rice, and you’ll have a satisfying meal with minimal effort at your fingertips!
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for lean ground beef that is 80/20 or 90/10; the latter has less fat and will result in a leaner meal. If you prefer a lighter option, feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken. Check for bright red color without dark spots, which indicate freshness.
How long can I store my Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep bowls in the fridge?
You can enjoy your delicious meal prep bowls for up to 4 days when stored in airtight containers. Make sure to cool them completely before refrigerating to maintain their quality. This ensures you have tasty meals ready to go and minimizes spoilage.
Can I freeze my Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep bowls?
Very! To freeze, wrap each meal prep bowl tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if my mixture is too watery when reheating?
If you find your mixture is watery, it may be due to excess fat from the beef or too much broth added. Make sure to drain the beef well after cooking and stick to the given broth measurements. If it’s still a bit soupy, simply simmer it on low heat to reduce the liquid for 5-10 minutes.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, using a gluten-free beef broth will keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy the comforting flavors without worry!
What should I pair with my Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep?
For a colorful touch, top your bowls with fresh chopped parsley or green onions. A side salad or crisp carrot sticks makes an excellent accompaniment, adding crunch and freshness to your hearty meal—it’s the perfect balance!
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep Bowls You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook rice according to package instructions, typically taking about 15 minutes. Set aside once fluffy.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions, green bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until soft.
- In the same skillet, add the lean ground beef and brown over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add sautéed veggies and mix well.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mixture, cover and reduce heat to low. Cook until cheese is melted, 3-5 minutes.
- Divide cooked rice and beef-cheesesteak mixture into 8 meal prep containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.