If you’re craving the bold, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but want to stick to your low-carb or keto lifestyle, then Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps are your answer. These wraps swap out traditional hoagie rolls for tender cabbage leaves, creating a lighter yet equally satisfying version of the classic sandwich. Packed with thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions and peppers, and gooey melted cheese, these wraps deliver all the flavor of a Philly cheesesteak without the carbs. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps—from their juicy filling to step-by-step instructions on how to make them at home. Let’s dive into this guilt-free creation!
What Are Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps?
Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps are a low-carb, grain-free version of the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Instead of using bread, these wraps use large cabbage leaves as the “wrappers,” providing a sturdy yet light base that holds up well under the hearty filling. The filling features thinly sliced beef (or chicken), caramelized onions, sautéed bell peppers, and melted cheese, all seasoned with garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. The result is a dish that’s rich, savory, and completely carb-conscious.
This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but wants to avoid refined carbs and grains. Its versatility makes it perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps
There are countless reasons why these wraps have become a favorite among keto dieters and food enthusiasts:
- Low-Carb Comfort : Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak without the carb-heavy bun.
- Packed with Flavor : The combination of tender beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese delivers bold, satisfying taste in every bite.
- Light and Healthy : Using cabbage instead of bread reduces calories and adds extra nutrients like fiber and vitamins.
- Customizable : Add your favorite toppings like mushrooms, jalapeños, or avocado for variety.
- Perfect for Meal Prep : Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick, keto-friendly meals throughout the week.
- Kid-Friendly : Kids love the cheesy, meaty filling, while adults appreciate the healthier twist.
Health Benefits of Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps
While this dish is indulgent in flavor, it offers several health-conscious advantages:
- Low in Carbs : Using cabbage leaves ensures the dish stays low in net carbs, making it keto-friendly.
- Rich in Protein : Thinly sliced steak provides high-quality protein, keeping you full and energized.
- Packed with Nutrients : Cabbage is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while bell peppers add additional vitamins and color.
- No Refined Carbs : This dish avoids bread entirely, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cheesesteaks.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider using grass-fed beef, nitrate-free cheese, or adding extra veggies like spinach or zucchini to the filling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps:
For the Wraps:
- Large Cabbage Leaves : Provides a sturdy, low-carb wrapper.
- Thinly Sliced Steak (or Chicken) : Ribeye or sirloin works best for authentic flavor.
- Onions : Sliced thinly for caramelized sweetness.
- Bell Peppers : Red, green, or yellow for added color and flavor.
- Cheese : Shredded provolone, mozzarella, or American cheese for gooey goodness.
- Garlic : Minced for added depth of flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce : Adds umami and richness.
- Salt and Pepper : Balances the flavors.
- Olive Oil or Butter : Adds moisture and enhances flavor.
Optional Toppings:
- Hot Sauce : For a spicy kick.
- Sautéed Mushrooms : Adds earthy flavor and texture.
- Avocado Slices : For creaminess and healthy fats.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Preparing the Cabbage Leaves
- Blanch the Cabbage : Bring a pot of water to a boil and carefully submerge large cabbage leaves for 1–2 minutes until softened. Remove and let cool.
- Trim the Leaves : Use a knife to trim any thick stems from the cabbage leaves for easier wrapping.
Cooking the Filling
- Sear the Steak : Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add thinly sliced steak and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Veggies : In the same skillet, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook until caramelized and tender, about 8–10 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce.
- Combine Ingredients : Return the steak to the skillet, mix with the veggies, and season with salt and pepper.
Assembling the Wraps
- Fill the Leaves : Place a scoop of the steak mixture onto each cabbage leaf. Top with shredded cheese.
- Wrap It Up : Fold the sides of the cabbage leaf over the filling and roll tightly to enclose.
Finishing Touches
- Optional Melting : If desired, place the assembled wraps in a skillet or oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese further.
- Serve Hot : Serve immediately with optional toppings like hot sauce or avocado slices.
Creative Variations
The beauty of Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps lies in their versatility. Here are some fun ideas to try:
- Gluten-Free Option : Naturally gluten-free, this recipe is perfect for those avoiding gluten.
- Turkey or Chicken Swap : Substitute steak with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Veggie-Packed Version : Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Breakfast Wraps : Use scrambled eggs and sausage instead of steak for a breakfast-inspired twist.
- Mini Sliders : Use smaller cabbage leaves to create bite-sized wraps for easy snacking or party appetizers.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Fresh Ingredients : High-quality steak, fresh vegetables, and good cheese ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak : Slice the steak thinly and cook quickly over high heat for tender results.
- Experiment with Cheese : Try different cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or feta for variety.
- Freeze for Later : Assemble the wraps, freeze them unbaked, and store them in the freezer for future use.
Serving Suggestions
Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments:
- Side Salad : Pair with a fresh arugula salad or Caesar salad for a light, refreshing side.
- Roasted Veggies : Serve alongside roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus for added nutrients.
- Keto Breadsticks : Make low-carb breadsticks with almond flour for a fun addition.
- Dipping Sauces : Offer sugar-free ketchup, ranch, or BBQ sauce for dipping.
For a fun presentation, garnish the wraps with fresh herbs, extra cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go awry if you’re not careful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Blanching Step : Not blanching the cabbage leaves can make them too tough to wrap easily. Always soften them first.
- Overloading the Filling : Adding too much filling can make the wraps difficult to roll. Stick to manageable portions.
- Not Adjusting Seasoning : Taste the filling before assembling and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Overcooking the Steak : Overcooking can dry out the steak. Cook just until browned and tender.
FAQs About Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage instead of whole leaves? A: Pre-shredded cabbage won’t work as a wrapper, but you can use it as a base for a bowl-style dish instead.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free? A: Yes! Substitute dairy-free cheese and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store the wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Why are my cabbage leaves tearing? A: Tearing can occur from using old or overly tough cabbage. Choose fresh, firm cabbage and blanch the leaves properly.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps are a rich, savory treat—a perfect blend of tender steak, caramelized veggies, and melted cheese wrapped in a low-carb cabbage leaf. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving something comforting and satisfying, these wraps are sure to impress. Best of all, they’re highly customizable, requiring just a few pantry staples and your creativity.
Ready to give them a try? Gather your ingredients, follow our foolproof guide, and prepare to wow your taste buds with this indulgent yet wholesome creation. Don’t forget to share your creations with us—we’d love to hear how your Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps turned out!
By incorporating relevant keywords such as “keto cheesesteak wraps,” “low-carb Philly cheesesteak,” and “cabbage wraps recipe” throughout the article, this piece is optimized for search engines while remaining engaging and informative for readers. Happy cooking!
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Best Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps Recipe: A Low-Carb Twist on a Classic Favorite
- Total Time: 20 mins
Description
Sweet, savory, and loaded with flavor — these keto-friendly Philly cheesesteak cabbage wraps are a low-carb twist on the classic sandwich, wrapped in crisp cabbage for a healthy, delicious meal!
Ingredients
1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak
½ cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
½ cup sliced yellow onion
2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
4 oz cream cheese, softened
4 oz shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
8–10 large cabbage leaves (from green or red cabbage)
Optional: sugar-free steak sauce or hot sauce for extra kick
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add sliced steak, peppers, and onions. Cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and tender. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in cream cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheese until smooth.
Spoon warm cheesesteak mixture into the center of each cabbage leaf.
Roll up like a burrito, tucking in the sides as you go.
Serve warm with a drizzle of steak sauce or enjoy as a handheld low-carb meal.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 (2 wraps each)
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 22g