Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: Approximately 440 calories
Protein: Approximately 38g
I have had some incredible steak and cheese sandwiches in Philadelphia over the years. There is just something about thin sliced steak, melty cheese, grilled onions, and fresh bread that makes it one of the best comfort foods ever. The problem is I cannot hop on a plane to Philly every single day when I get the craving, so I started making this lighter version at home.
For this recipe I used steak tenderloin because it has to be one of the best cuts of beef out there. I mean, if Gordon Ramsay uses tenderloin for his famous Beef Wellington, then you already know it is going to be tender and packed with flavor. Thin sliced tenderloin cooks quickly, stays juicy, and works perfectly in a homemade steak and cheese sub.
This sandwich still gives you that classic steak and cheese flavor, but with lean steak tenderloin, controlled portions of Cheese Whiz, and a lighter spicy mayo sauce that keeps the calories much lower while still tasting incredible.
Why This Low Calorie Steak and Cheese Sandwich Works
- Helpful Equipment / Tools Tips For The Best Steak and Cheese Sandwich Ingredient Substitutions Lower Calorie Tips Make Ahead and Storage The steak can be marinated overnight for even more flavor. Cooked steak and onions can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before assembling the sandwich. What To Serve With A Steak and Cheese Sandwich
- Thin sliced steak tenderloin cooks quickly and stays tender
- Dark soy sauce marinade adds deep savory flavor
- Cheese Whiz gives authentic steak and cheese flavor without needing large amounts
- Ciabatta bread creates the perfect crispy sandwich texture
- Spicy mayo balances the richness of the steak and cheese
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Large skillet or flat top
- Spatula
- Freeze the steak tenderloin for 20 to 30 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut very thin
- Cook the onions low and slow for better flavor
- Use a hot pan so the steak gets a quick sear instead of steaming
- Do not overcook the steak or it can become tough
- Use shaved sirloin instead of tenderloin
- Use regular mayo instead of light mayo if preferred
- Swap ciabatta for a smaller hoagie roll
- Add jalapeños for extra heat
- Use reduced fat mayo
- Use a smaller amount of Cheese Whiz while still getting the flavor
- Load up on onions for extra volume
- Choose a smaller ciabatta roll to control calories
- Air fryer fries
- Pickles
- Roasted vegetables
- Side salad
- Protein chips
~Recipe~
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the steak tenderloin very thinly. Add to a bowl with dark soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and marinate for at least 1 hour.
- In a small bowl combine the light mayo, sriracha, and soy sauce. Mix until smooth.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly spray with cooking spray. Add the sliced onions and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
- Push the onions to the side and add the marinated steak to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, breaking apart the slices as they cook until browned and cooked through.
- Toast the ciabatta bread lightly if desired. Spread the spicy mayo onto the bread. Add the steak and onions, then top with Cheese Whiz while everything is still hot.
- Serve immediately.
Ingredients
Steak Marinade
- 4 ounces steak tenderloin, sliced very thin
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Sandwich
- 1 small ciabatta baguette
- 1/2 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Cheese Whiz
- Cooking spray
Spicy Mayo
- 1 tablespoon light mayo
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate The Steak
Slice the steak tenderloin very thinly. Add to a bowl with dark soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and marinate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Make The Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl combine the light mayo, sriracha, and soy sauce. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Cook The Onions
Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly spray with cooking spray. Add the sliced onions and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
Step 4: Cook The Steak
Push the onions to the side and add the marinated steak to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, breaking apart the slices as they cook until browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Assemble The Sandwich
Toast the ciabatta bread lightly if desired. Spread the spicy mayo onto the bread. Add the steak and onions, then top with Cheese Whiz while everything is still hot.
Serve immediately.
FAQ
What is the best steak for a steak and cheese sandwich?
Tenderloin, sirloin, or ribeye all work well. Tenderloin is a leaner option that still stays tender when sliced thin.
Can I make this steak and cheese sub ahead of time?
You can prep the steak and onions ahead of time, but assemble the sandwich fresh for the best texture.
How do I slice steak thin for steak sandwiches?
Place the steak in the freezer for about 20 minutes before slicing. This helps create thin even slices.
Is Cheese Whiz traditional on Philly cheesesteaks?
Yes, many classic Philadelphia cheesesteaks are served with Cheese Whiz for that signature creamy cheese flavor.
Calorie Breakdown For Low Calorie Steak and Cheese Sandwich
Ingredient
Amount
Calories
Steak tenderloin
4 oz
~170
Small ciabatta baguette
1 roll
~150
Cheese Whiz
2 tablespoons
~70
Light mayo
1 tablespoon
~35
Sriracha
1 teaspoon
~5
Onion
1/2 medium onion
~20
Dark soy sauce + seasonings
Small amount
~5
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