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This hearty Keto Philly Cheesesteak Rolls recipe transforms the classic sandwich into a low-carb delight that maintains all the savory goodness of the original. The cheese-based wrapper creates a perfect vehicle for the seasoned beef and vegetable filling, offering a protein-packed meal without the carbs.
I created these rolls when my family started our keto journey and we were desperately missing our favorite takeout foods. These have become our Friday night tradition, even for family members who aren't following a low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
- Monterey Jack cheese: shredded provides the crucial crispy-yet-pliable wrapper and adds rich flavor to every bite
- Ground beef: delivers satisfying protein and hearty texture that makes these rolls truly filling
- Onion and bell pepper: bring authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor and add necessary vegetables to balance the dish
- Worcestershire sauce: introduces that umami depth that takes the flavor from good to exceptional
- Cream cheese: creates a velvety texture that binds the filling together while adding richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven:
- Preheat to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment is non-negotiable here as the cheese will stick terribly to an unlined pan and ruin your beautiful cheese circles. Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the middle for even heat distribution.
- Cook the Beef Mixture:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once the beef begins showing color, add your sliced onions and peppers. The vegetables should soften but still maintain some texture, about 5-7 minutes total. Drain any excess grease thoroughly to prevent soggy rolls that will collapse when picked up.
- Season and Add Cheese:
- Return your drained beef mixture to medium heat and add Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. This is where the magic happens with flavor development. Now fold in the cream cheese, stirring continuously until it creates a cohesive, creamy mixture throughout. The cream cheese should be completely incorporated with no white streaks remaining.
- Create Cheese Circles:
- Form 8 evenly spaced circles using your shredded Monterey Jack on the parchment paper, using about 1/4 cup per circle. Space them at least 2 inches apart as they will spread during baking. Bake for 8-10 minutes watching carefully toward the end. The perfect cheese circle has golden brown edges and a lace-like appearance but is not burned.
- Assemble the Roll-Ups:
- Working quickly but carefully, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cheese circles cool for exactly one minute. This timing is crucial as too hot and they will tear, too cool and they will crack when rolling. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling on each circle and roll them up, allowing them to cool for another 2-3 minutes to set their shape.
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The Worcestershire sauce is my secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother always added it to her cheesesteak sandwiches, and that tiny teaspoon makes all the difference between a good roll and an amazing one that people will request again and again.
Storage Solutions
These rolls maintain their texture surprisingly well when properly stored. Place cooled rolls in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave which will make them soggy. Instead, place them in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 3-5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Customize Your Rolls
While traditional Philly cheesesteak includes only onions and sometimes peppers, you can customize these rolls with additional low-carb ingredients. Consider adding sliced mushrooms, jalapeños for heat, or even a few spinach leaves. You can also swap the Monterey Jack for provolone or a mixture of cheeses for different flavor profiles. Just ensure any vegetable additions are well-cooked and drained of excess moisture before adding to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesesteak rolls stand perfectly on their own, but for a complete keto meal, serve alongside a simple side salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing. For a fun party presentation, slice each roll in half and secure with a decorative toothpick. These also pair wonderfully with a side of sugar-free ketchup or mayonnaise mixed with a touch of hot sauce for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack with cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella for a similar texture and taste.
- → How do I prevent the cheese circles from sticking?
Make sure to use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the cheese from sticking during baking.
- → Can these rolls be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and assemble the rolls when ready to serve. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- → How do I reheat these rolls?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese rubbery.
- → What can I serve with these roll-ups?
Pair them with fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light dipping sauce to complement the flavors.