Healthy Shredded Beef Cheesesteak Sandwich

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time
25 min	7 h	7 h 25 min

Introduction

This healthy shredded beef cheesesteak sandwich gives you all the classic Philly comfort, with lighter ingredients you can feel good about.

Slow-cooked, spice-rubbed sirloin turns incredibly tender and juicy, then gets piled high with sautéed peppers and onions.

Stuff everything into hearty whole-wheat rolls, add melty mozzarella, and you have an easy weeknight dinner or game-day favorite.

Prep mode (keeps screen active)

Season the beef

Pat the sirloin roast dry with paper towels so the seasoning sticks well.
In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Rub the spice mixture all over the roast, coating every side.
Slow cook the beef

Place the seasoned roast in the slow cooker.
Pour in the water, then add the beef bouillon cubes and Worcestershire sauce.
Cover and cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours, or on High for 3 to 4 hours.

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Shred and moisten the beef

Transfer the cooked roast to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Use two forks to shred the beef into thin strands.
Ladle some cooking liquid over the shredded beef to keep it juicy, and keep it warm in the slow cooker.
Cook the veggies

Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced green pepper, red pepper, and onion, plus a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cook, stirring often, until the veggies are tender and lightly browned, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Toast the rolls

Split the whole-wheat rolls and lay them cut side up on a baking sheet.
Toast under the broiler until the edges are lightly crisp, 1 to 3 minutes, watching closely.

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Assemble the sandwiches

Divide the hot shredded beef among the rolls, piling it into the centers.
Top with the sautéed peppers and onions, then sprinkle each sandwich with shredded mozzarella.
Return the sandwiches to the broiler just until the cheese melts and bubbles, 1 to 2 minutes.

Sirloin beef roast -> lean chuck roast: Lean chuck roast has a bit more marbling, which gives richer flavor and very tender shreds after slow cooking.
Part-skim mozzarella cheese -> provolone cheese: Provolone melts very smoothly and has a classic cheesesteak taste, while still keeping the sandwich nicely balanced and not heavy.
Whole-wheat rolls -> romaine lettuce leaves: Romaine leaves give you a low-carb, fork-and-knife cheesesteak option that feels fresh and crunchy yet still seriously satisfying.

Brown the beef for extra flavor: For deeper flavor, sear the roast in a hot skillet with a little oil before slow cooking.
Slice veggies in even strips: Cut peppers and onions into similar thickness so they cook at the same rate and stay pleasantly tender, not mushy.
Use the cooking liquid wisely: Skim excess fat if needed, then spoon just enough cooking liquid over the shredded beef to keep it moist and flavorful.
Melt the cheese without drying the bread: Keep the sandwiches under the broiler only briefly so the cheese melts but the rolls stay soft inside.
Plan for leftovers: Store leftover beef and veggies separately from the rolls, so reheated portions still taste fresh and never soggy.

Why did my shredded beef turn out dry?: Most often the roast cooked too long or with not enough liquid. Next time, check it an hour early for tenderness. You can also stir in extra cooking liquid or a splash of broth to moisten dry shreds.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?: Yes, brown the roast on Sauté, then add liquids and seasonings. Cook on High pressure for about 60 minutes, then let pressure release naturally for 10 to 15 minutes. Shred the beef and use the juices just like in the slow cooker version.
How can I keep the rolls from getting soggy?: Toast the cut sides of the rolls before filling, which creates a barrier against the juicy meat. Also, spoon the beef out with tongs, letting excess liquid drip back into the slow cooker.
Can I freeze the shredded beef for later?: Yes, cool the meat completely, then pack it with some cooking liquid into freezer bags or containers. Freeze up to three months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.
What can I use instead of cheese for a dairy-free version?: Try a dairy-free shredded cheese that melts well, or thin slices of dairy-free provolone style cheese. You can also add creamy avocado slices for richness that balances the savory beef and peppers.