High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups

How to make protein-rich Philly cheesesteak roll-ups with 28g protein per serving in just 35 minutes

sarah thompson for recipes by clare
By Sarah Thompson
Updated on Fri, 29 Aug 2025 01:00:26 GMT
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These High Protein Philly Cheesesteak roll-ups deliver around 28 grams of protein per serving while capturing all those classic cheesesteak flavors you’re craving. I created this recipe after my teenage son Jake complained that my “healthy” versions never tasted like the real thing.

Last Tuesday evening, I was meal planning with a pound of ribeye, trying to figure out how to make it both protein-rich and actually appealing to my family. My usual high protein chicken bowls were getting eye rolls, and I needed something that felt indulgent but still hit our macro goals. That’s when I remembered those amazing Philly cheesesteaks from our Philadelphia trip last summer – what if I could wrap those flavors in a low-carb tortilla? The first batch disappeared in minutes, with Jake asking “Can you make these again tomorrow?” Success! This one’s definitely staying in our dinner rotation.

Ingredients for High Protein Philly Cheesesteak

I always use ribeye or sirloin for these roll-ups because the natural marbling creates tender results when cooked quickly over high heat. My go-to is asking the deli counter to slice it about ¼ inch thick – this saves prep time and ensures even cooking.

  • 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin beef (¼ inch thick from deli counter)
  • 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced – I get mine from the deli for superior melting
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, chopped (red, green, yellow for authentic Philly flavor)
  • 1 medium sweet onion, chopped – Vidalia onions add natural sweetness that balances the beef
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 low-carb tortillas – Mission Carb Balance works perfectly here
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder – I usually add this for extra depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

I always prep all ingredients first since this recipe moves quickly once you start cooking.

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking for 6-8 minutes until softened and lightly golden. They should be tender but still have slight texture for that authentic Philly bite.

Step 2: Increase heat to medium-high and add the beef. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Cook for 4-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned but still slightly pink inside. Don’t overcook or it becomes tough and chewy.

Step 3: Reduce heat to low and lay provolone cheese slices directly over the hot beef mixture. Cover the pan and let it melt for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and coats everything evenly.

Step 4: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for 2-3 minutes so it’s easier to handle. Spoon about ¾ cup of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving 2 inches on each side. Roll tightly but gently to prevent tearing.

Step 5: Return the skillet to medium heat (no need to add more oil). Place roll-ups seam-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes total, turning every minute to brown all sides until golden and crispy. This seals the seam and creates that perfect crunch.

What to Serve with High Protein Philly Cheesesteak

These protein-rich roll-ups pair beautifully with sides that complement their rich, savory flavors while adding nutritional balance.

Chickpea Beet and Feta Salad: This Mediterranean-inspired salad provides a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich cheese and beef while adding extra protein and fiber to round out your meal.

High Protein Breakfast Bowls (adapted for dinner): Use the roasted vegetable components from this recipe – the seasoned zucchini and broccoli make perfect low-carb sides that won’t compete with the bold Philly flavors.

Steakhouse Potato Salad: For special occasions when you want to go all-out steakhouse style, this protein-rich potato salad complements the beef beautifully and adds those classic American flavors.

Simple Green Salad: A crisp mixed greens salad with cucumber and tomatoes cuts through the richness while adding vitamins and keeping the meal balanced.

Roasted Asparagus: Quick-roasted asparagus with olive oil and garlic provides a nutritious, low-carb vegetable that doesn’t overpower the main dish.

Storage & Serving Tips

Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I slice them in half before storing to make reheating easier and portion control simpler.

For best results when reheating, use your oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes rather than the microwave – this keeps the exterior crispy and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery. Wrap them loosely in foil to prevent over-browning while ensuring they heat through completely.

These roll-ups work great for meal prep since you can make the filling ahead and assemble them just before cooking. They’re also incredibly versatile – try them with different cheeses like our cottage cheese recipes inspire, or swap the beef for chicken if you prefer.

Conclusion

This High Protein Philly Cheesesteak recipe proves that eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing the flavors you love. With about 28 grams of protein per serving and only 5 net carbs, it’s a perfect balance for your nutritional goals. Give this recipe a try – your family will be asking for it again before they realize how much protein they just enjoyed!

High protein Philly cheesesteak roll-ups golden brown and sliced on white serving plate

High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups

Protein-rich Philly cheesesteak flavors wrapped in low-carb tortillas with 28g protein per serving
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin beef
  • 8 oz provolone cheese sliced
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers chopped
  • 1 medium sweet onion chopped
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 low-carb tortillas
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spatula or tongs

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking for 6-8 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
  2. Increase heat to medium-high and add the beef. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Cook for 4-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned but still slightly pink inside.
  3. Reduce heat to low and lay provolone cheese slices directly over the hot beef mixture. Cover the pan and let it melt for 2-3 minutes until completely melted and coating everything evenly.
  4. Remove from heat and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Spoon about ¾ cup of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving 2 inches on each side. Roll tightly but gently.
  5. Return the skillet to medium heat. Place roll-ups seam-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes total, turning every minute to brown all sides until golden and crispy.

Notes

Use ¼ inch thick beef slices for best results. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in oven at 350°F.
High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Roll Ups

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