Zesty Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
If you’re craving a one-pan dinner that’s bold, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Zesty Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is your new go-to! Inspired by the classic Philly sandwich, this skillet version is a quicker, low-carb alternative perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

This recipe was born out of one too many nights staring into the fridge, wondering how to stretch a few steak slices into a satisfying dinner.
I remembered my favorite Philly cheesesteak from a street food cart back in college—gooey cheese, sizzling beef, and perfectly tender peppers.
So I recreated those bold, zesty flavors in a skillet form, no hoagie roll required.
What started as a quick fix is now a staple at my dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick & Easy – This skillet meal comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Bold Flavor – Zesty seasoning, tender beef, and melty cheese give every bite serious flavor.
- One-Pan Wonder – No extra pots or pans. Just one skillet and you’re set!
- Low-Carb Friendly – All the cheesesteak flavor without the bread, perfect for low-carb diets.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Cuisines: American
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $15
Equipment:
- Large non-stick skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients

- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the veggies and steak: Slice your peppers, onion, and steak thinly to ensure fast, even cooking.
- Sauté the veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and onion, season with a pinch of salt, and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the steak: Push the veggies to one side and add the sliced steak. Cook for 4–5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Combine everything: Mix the veggies and steak together in the skillet. Add Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and black pepper.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top, reduce heat to low, and cover for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 385
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality steak: Ribeye gives you the best flavor, but sirloin works well too.
- Slice against the grain: For tender bites, slice your steak thinly and against the grain.
- Don’t overcook the veggies: Keep them tender-crisp for the best texture contrast.
- Customize the cheese: Provolone is traditional, but feel free to try mozzarella, pepper jack, or even white cheddar for a twist.
Zesty Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the veggies and steak: Slice your peppers, onion, and steak thinly to ensure fast, even cooking.
- Sauté the veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and onion, season with a pinch of salt, and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the steak: Push the veggies to one side and add the sliced steak. Cook for 4–5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Combine everything: Mix the veggies and steak together in the skillet. Add Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and black pepper.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top, reduce heat to low, and cover for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot straight from the skillet.
Notes
- Use high-quality steak: Ribeye gives you the best flavor, but sirloin works well too.
- Slice against the grain: For tender bites, slice your steak thinly and against the grain.
- Don’t overcook the veggies: Keep them tender-crisp for the best texture contrast.
- Customize the cheese: Provolone is traditional, but feel free to try mozzarella, pepper jack, or even white cheddar for a twist.
Common Questions
Can I use ground beef instead of steak?
Yes! Ground beef works great for a more budget-friendly and quick-cooking option.
What can I serve this with?
This skillet goes well with a simple green salad, roasted potatoes, or even piled onto a toasted hoagie roll.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the veggies and steak in advance. Store them separately and cook when ready to serve.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the cheese. Reheat and add cheese fresh before serving for the best texture.
Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a sizzling skillet presentation, this Zesty Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is a delicious way to bring bold flavor to your table—no sandwich roll needed.
Happy cooking and enjoy every zesty bite!