Few sandwiches are as iconic as the Philly cheesesteak. But this beloved sandwich is also notoriously high in calories.
So, how many calories are in a cheesesteak? That’s the question we’ll be tackling here, along with tips for making healthier choices when you’re craving one. What you’ll quickly find is that the calorie count can vary quite a bit.
We’ll cover typical calorie ranges, the factors that affect those numbers, and simple swaps you can make to enjoy a cheesesteak without quite as much guilt.
What’s in a cheesesteak?
The main components of a cheesesteak are meat, cheese, and bread. But the specific ingredients used, along with portion size and preparation methods, can all affect the calorie count.
- Meat: Ribeye steak is the traditional choice, known for its high fat content. Flank steak is sometimes used as a leaner alternative.
- Cheese: Cheese Whiz is a Philly favorite, but provolone and American cheese are also popular. Calorie counts vary from cheese to cheese.
- Bread: The roll is a major contributor to the total calorie count. Some shops use Amoroso rolls, while others have their own unique recipes.
Keep in mind that a 7-inch cheesesteak will have fewer calories than a 10-inch one. And added ingredients such as onions, peppers, mushrooms, and condiments will also affect the total.
How many calories are in a typical cheesesteak?
A standard cheesesteak can range anywhere from 900 to 1500 calories depending on the size, ingredients, and preparation method. For example, a 7-inch cheesesteak might contain around 476 calories, while a 10-inch version can easily reach 789 calories or more.
Even cheesesteaks at chain restaurants can vary. A Subway cheesesteak, for example, can have a different calorie count than one from a local deli.
It’s also worth noting that cheesesteaks are high in fat, carbohydrates, and protein. A typical cheesesteak may have around 40 grams of fat, 80 grams of carbohydrates, and 50 grams of protein.
Making Healthier Cheesesteak Choices
If you love a good cheesesteak but you’re also counting calories, here are some ways to make a cheesesteak that’s a little easier on the waistline.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Choose a leaner beef. Instead of the traditional ribeye, try strip steak or tenderloin, both of which have less fat.
- Go for a lower-fat cheese. Provolone is a good choice, or you could try a reduced-fat cheese sauce. Even small changes like this can make a difference.
- Pick a whole wheat or low-carb roll. You can also reduce the carbs and calories by hollowing out some of the bread from the inside of the roll.
Preparation Techniques
- Use less oil. Cook the meat and veggies with just a tiny bit of oil. If you have a good non-stick pan, you might not need any oil at all.
- Add veggies. Load up your cheesesteak with onions, peppers, and mushrooms. The extra vegetables add nutrition and make the sandwich more filling.
- Practice portion control. Consider ordering a smaller cheesesteak or sharing a regular-sized one with a friend.
Healthy Accompaniments
Skip the fries and opt for a side salad or a lighter side dish.
A Healthier Homemade Cheesesteak Recipe
You can make a healthier cheesesteak at home! For example, one “healthy Philly cheesesteak recipe” clocks in at just 375 calories per serving.
That recipe uses lean flank steak and lots of vegetables. Plus, it relies on low-sodium ingredients to keep the salt content down.
To make it, you’ll sauté your flank steak with peppers and onions. Then, you’ll whip up a simple cheese sauce using low-fat milk and cheddar cheese.
Finally, if you want to cut carbs, skip the bun! Load everything into a bowl instead.
Putting It All Together
So, cheesesteaks can definitely be high in calories, fat, and sodium. That’s why it’s important to make smart choices and not overdo it.
Consider trying lighter versions or different ways of preparing them. You might be surprised at how good a lower-calorie cheesesteak can be!
Ultimately, you can enjoy a cheesesteak as part of a healthy, balanced diet. Just be mindful of what you’re eating and how it fits into your overall nutritional goals.