The Philly cheesesteak is one of America’s most iconic sandwiches, known for its sizzling beef strips, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and crusty hoagie rolls. But what if you could enjoy all the flavor and texture of this comfort food classic without using any meat at all? That’s where the Beyond Meat Philly Cheesesteak comes in—a fully plant-based version that captures the heart of the original, using Beyond Steak or Beyond Beef for that same juicy bite.
Whether you’re vegan, cutting back on meat, or just curious about meat alternatives, this recipe gives you the cheesesteak experience with no compromise. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and full of bold, savory flavor.
Why Make a Plant-Based Philly Cheesesteak?
This version of the Philly cheesesteak delivers the same umami-packed punch as the original, but it’s made entirely with plant-based ingredients. Beyond Meat provides a meatless protein that browns well, soaks up flavor, and stays tender when cooked properly.
Other ingredients like sautéed peppers, onions, dairy-free cheese, and soft sandwich rolls round out the experience. The result is a sandwich that’s just as hearty and crave-worthy as the original.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 package Beyond Steak (or 12 oz Beyond Beef, crumbled or shaped into strips)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 4 hoagie rolls or sandwich buns
- ½ to 1 cup plant-based shredded cheese (mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar-style)
- Optional: vegan mayo, hot sauce, or mustard for serving
Step-by-Step: How to Make Beyond Meat Philly Cheesesteak
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Start by slicing the onion and bell peppers thinly. This helps them cook evenly and blend well with the Beyond Meat in the sandwich.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the bell peppers and continue to cook until everything is tender and slightly caramelized, about 7 to 10 more minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beyond Meat
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the Beyond Steak strips or shaped Beyond Beef and spread them out to brown evenly. Let it cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to get some color. Stir occasionally and add garlic powder, smoked paprika, and soy sauce. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, or until the meat is browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 4: Add the Veggies Back In
Return the sautéed onions and peppers to the skillet with the Beyond Meat. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors combine.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle plant-based cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and lower the heat. Let the cheese melt, about 2 to 3 minutes. You can also scoop the filling into the hoagie rolls first and then place the assembled sandwiches under a broiler to melt the cheese on top.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Slice the hoagie rolls and toast them lightly if desired. Spread a little vegan mayo or mustard inside, then fill each roll with the hot cheesesteak mixture. Press gently and serve immediately.
Best Cheese and Bread Choices
Vegan Cheese Options:
- Violife shredded mozzarella or provolone
- Follow Your Heart cheddar-style
- Daiya cutting board blend for a meltier finish
Bread Options:
- Hoagie rolls
- Submarine sandwich rolls
- Soft French baguettes (halved)
Make sure your bread is soft on the inside with a slightly crusty outside for the perfect bite.
Flavor Tips and Add-Ons
- Add sliced jalapeños for heat
- Drizzle with vegan cheese sauce or chipotle mayo
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or arugula for a peppery finish
- Use mushrooms for added meatiness and texture
This sandwich is all about layers of flavor, so feel free to experiment with what you like.
Why This Recipe Works
The Beyond Meat Philly Cheesesteak hits the sweet spot between classic comfort and modern eating. It’s:
- High in protein without using animal products
- Rich in flavor thanks to caramelized onions and bold seasoning
- Easy to prepare with store-bought plant-based meat
- Perfect for weeknight meals or casual weekends
It satisfies that hearty sandwich craving with zero compromise.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
- Cook the filling ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat in a skillet or microwave before assembling the sandwich
- Toast the bread fresh just before serving for best texture
- Leftovers make great wraps or rice bowl toppings
Nutritional Overview (Per Sandwich)
- Calories: Around 450–550 depending on cheese and bread
- Protein: 20–25g
- Carbs: 30–40g from the roll
- Fat: From Beyond Meat and vegan cheese, mostly unsaturated
It’s a balanced, hearty meal that’s plant-based but still satisfying.
Final Thought
The Beyond Meat Philly Cheesesteak is more than just a vegan version of a classic—it’s a flavorful upgrade that proves plant-based meals can be just as indulgent and filling. With melty cheese, savory meatless strips, and sautéed vegetables, it’s a sandwich that delivers big on taste and texture.