Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps 

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Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps - A Low-Carb Twist on a Classic

Have you ever craved the savory, mouthwatering flavors of a Philadelphia cheesesteak but wanted to skip the heavy carbs? After a long day at work, I found myself in exactly this predicament. That’s when I discovered these incredible Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps – the perfect solution that satisfies that craving while keeping things light and nutritious. These wraps deliver all the juicy, cheesy goodness of the classic sandwich but wrapped in crisp cabbage leaves instead of bread. The tender steak, melted provolone, and perfectly sautéed peppers and onions create an explosion of flavor that will transport you straight to the streets of Philadelphia. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option, these Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps are guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love These Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps

  • ✅ These low-carb Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps are perfect for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake
  • ✅ Easy Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps ready in just 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights
  • ✅ Healthy Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps that don’t sacrifice flavor while cutting calories
  • ✅ Ideal Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps for meal prep – they store beautifully for quick lunches
  • ✅ Gluten-free Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions
  • ✅ These quick Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps dinner options are family-friendly and customizable to everyone’s taste

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps

  • 8 large green cabbage leaves (from 1 head)
  • 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil, divided (can substitute olive oil for a healthier option)
  • 1/2 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 large bell peppers, thinly sliced (use a mix of colors for visual appeal)
  • 1 tsp. dried oregano
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 lb. skirt steak, thinly sliced (ribeye or sirloin also work well)
  • 6 slices provolone cheese (can substitute with white American or mozzarella)
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (for spicy Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps)
  • Optional: 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for extra flavor)

Ingredient Substitutions and Alternatives

  • For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the steak
  • Dairy-free? Use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative
  • Short on time? Pre-sliced beef from the grocery store works perfectly
  • Want more veggies? Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps – Step by Step

Preparing the Cabbage

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. While waiting, carefully remove 8 large leaves from a head of cabbage, keeping them intact.

Step 2: Once boiling, blanch the cabbage leaves for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened but still firm. This makes them flexible for wrapping.

Step 3: Immediately transfer the leaves to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cool, remove and pat dry with paper towels.

Making the Philly Cheesesteak Filling

Step 4: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers.

Step 5: Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and beginning to caramelize. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 6: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the thinly sliced steak in a single layer (you may need to work in batches).

Step 7: Season the meat with salt and pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just browned. Be careful not to overcook the steak as it will become tough.

Step 8: Return the pepper and onion mixture to the skillet with the steak and toss to combine. For extra flavor, add Worcestershire sauce if desired.

Assembling the Wraps

Step 9: Lay out the blanched cabbage leaves on a flat surface. Place a slice of provolone cheese in the center of each leaf.

Step 10: Spoon the hot steak, pepper, and onion mixture onto each cheese slice. The heat will help melt the cheese.

Step 11: Fold in the sides of each cabbage leaf, then roll up from the bottom like a burrito, tucking in the sides as you go.

Step 12: If desired, secure each wrap with a toothpick to hold it together.

Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps - A Low-Carb Twist on a Classic
Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps – A Low-Carb Twist on a Classic

Pro Tips for Making the Best Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps

  • Slice your steak against the grain for the most tender bites
  • For the most pliable cabbage leaves, choose a fresh cabbage with loose outer leaves
  • Pre-cook and cool your filling for Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps for easy lunch meal prep
  • For creamy Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps, add a thin layer of cream cheese before the provolone
  • Make sure to pat the cabbage leaves dry after blanching to prevent soggy wraps
  • For maximum flavor, let the peppers and onions caramelize well before adding the steak
  • For Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps with onions and peppers that truly shine, cut vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking

Best Ways to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps

These versatile wraps are perfect on their own, but they also pair beautifully with complementary sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

  • Serve with a side of sweet potato fries for a healthier take on the classic combo
  • A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing balances the rich flavors
  • For a complete low-carb meal, pair with cauliflower “rice” or roasted vegetables
  • Offer small dishes of hot sauce, extra cheese sauce, or sautéed mushrooms for customization
  • For an appetizer version, make mini wraps using smaller cabbage leaves or cut regular wraps in half

Nutritional Information for Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps

These healthy Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps are not only delicious but nutritious too:

  • Calories: Approximately 320 per wrap
  • Protein: 25g per wrap
  • Fat: 20g per wrap
  • Carbohydrates: 6g per wrap
  • Fiber: 2g per wrap
  • Sugar: 2g per wrap
  • Sodium: 410mg per wrap

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Storage & Leftovers

These Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps for meal prep store beautifully:

  • Refrigeration: Store assembled wraps in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: While possible, freezing isn’t recommended as the cabbage can become soggy when thawed.
  • Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the filling and store separately from the blanched cabbage leaves, then assemble just before eating for the freshest results.
  • Reheating: For best results, warm in a covered skillet over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps

1. How do you make Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps that don’t fall apart?

The key is properly blanching the cabbage leaves to make them pliable without becoming too soft. Also, allow the filling to cool slightly before wrapping, and secure with toothpicks if needed for serving. Making sure to pat the cabbage leaves dry after blanching also helps prevent them from tearing.

2. What are the best toppings for Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps?

Traditional toppings include provolone cheese, sautéed onions, and bell peppers. However, you can customize with mushrooms, hot peppers, different cheese varieties, or even a light drizzle of hot sauce. Some people enjoy a bit of low-sugar ketchup or mustard as well.

3. Can I use a different type of meat in Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps?

Absolutely! While traditional Philly cheesesteaks use ribeye or sirloin, you can substitute ground beef, chicken breast, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as leaner meats cook faster.

4. Are Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps low-carb?

Yes, these wraps are naturally low-carb and keto-friendly since they use cabbage instead of bread. Each wrap typically contains only about 6g of carbohydrates, making them perfect for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets.

Conclusion

These Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy the classic flavors of Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich without the carb overload. They’re perfect for meal prep, quick dinners, or even as an impressive appetizer for guests. The combination of savory steak, sweet caramelized onions, colorful peppers, and melty cheese wrapped in crisp cabbage leaves creates a satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Have you tried making these Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps yet? Drop a comment below to share your experience or any creative modifications you’ve made to the recipe! And don’t forget to save this recipe for the next time you’re craving a healthier alternative to the classic cheesesteak sandwich.

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Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps - A Low-Carb Twist on a Classic

Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps 


  • Author: Isabella Baute
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 wraps 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Savor the delicious flavors of a Philly cheesesteak while keeping it low-carb and nutritious with these Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps! Tender steak, melted provolone, and perfectly sautéed peppers and onions are wrapped in crisp cabbage leaves, offering all the classic flavors without the carbs.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 large green cabbage leaves (from 1 head)
  • 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil, divided (can substitute olive oil for a healthier option)
  • 1/2 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 large bell peppers, thinly sliced (use a mix of colors for visual appeal)
  • 1 tsp. dried oregano
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 lb. skirt steak, thinly sliced (ribeye or sirloin also work well)
  • 6 slices provolone cheese (can substitute with white American or mozzarella)
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (for spicy wraps)
  • Optional: 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove 8 large leaves from a head of cabbage, keeping them intact.
  2. Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened but still firm. Transfer to an ice bath, then pat dry.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers.
  4. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened and caramelized. Transfer to a plate.
  5. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add thinly sliced steak in a single layer, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until just browned.
  6. Return the pepper and onion mixture to the skillet with the steak and toss to combine. Add Worcestershire sauce if desired.
  7. Lay out the blanched cabbage leaves. Place a slice of provolone cheese in the center of each leaf.
  8. Spoon the hot steak, pepper, and onion mixture onto each cheese slice. Fold in the sides of each leaf, then roll up like a burrito, securing with a toothpick if needed.

Notes

  • Slice steak against the grain for tender bites.
  • Pat cabbage leaves dry after blanching to prevent soggy wraps.
  • For meal prep, prepare the filling and store separately from the leaves, assembling before eating.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 wrap
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 410
  • Fat: 20
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Unsaturated Fat: N/A
  • Trans Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: 6
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 25
  • Cholesterol: N/A

Keywords: philly cheesesteak, cabbage wraps, low-carb, gluten-free, steak wraps, healthy steak wraps

Isabella Baute

Written by Isabella Baute

Isabella Baute is a food writer and home cook dedicated to making cooking accessible and enjoyable. She focuses on easy-to-follow recipes with everyday ingredients, covering everything from quick weeknight dinners to special occasion desserts.

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