Yes, Do Philly Cheesesteaks Have Protein? Unpacking the Nutritional Facts

January 1, 2026 •

2 min read

A traditional Philly cheesesteak can contain anywhere from 30 to over 60 grams of protein per sandwich, confirming that yes, Philly cheesesteaks have protein. This iconic comfort food provides a substantial serving of this key macronutrient, primarily from the beef and cheese, but its overall nutritional profile varies significantly.

Quick Summary

This article explores the protein content and full nutritional breakdown of a Philly cheesesteak, examining how ingredients and preparation methods affect its health profile and discussing potential healthier modifications.

Key Points

Significant Protein Source: Yes, Philly cheesesteaks are high in protein, with a single sandwich often providing 30-65 grams or more from the beef and cheese.
Core Ingredients: The high protein content comes primarily from thinly sliced beef (often ribeye) and melted cheese like provolone or American.
Varies by Portion: Protein and calorie counts differ based on size, with a large traditional cheesesteak containing much more than a 6-inch sandwich.
High in Fat and Sodium: While rich in protein, the classic sandwich is also high in fat, saturated fat, and sodium due to the cut of beef and the cheese.
Healthier Alternatives: Modifications like using leaner meat (chicken, flank steak), less cheese, and more vegetables can reduce the fat and calorie content.
Enjoy in Moderation: Given its dense nutritional profile, a Philly cheesesteak is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.

The Protein Powerhouse: Beef and Cheese

The significant protein content in Philly cheesesteaks comes primarily from two core ingredients: the beef and the cheese. Both are rich sources of this essential macronutrient, important for tissue building, repair, and other bodily functions.

The Protein Source: Thinly Sliced Beef

Thinly sliced beef, typically ribeye, is a key component, providing a substantial amount of protein.

The Cheese Factor: More Than Just Flavor

Common cheesesteak cheeses like provolone, American, or Cheez Whiz also contribute protein, alongside other nutrients like calcium.

A Breakdown of Cheesesteak Ingredients

Typical ingredients include thinly sliced beef, various cheeses, a hoagie roll (like an Amoroso roll), and often sautéed onions. Optional additions can include mushrooms, peppers, and other condiments.

How Much Protein Is in a Philly Cheesesteak?

Protein content varies based on size and specific ingredients. Here is a general comparison:


Cheesesteak Type	Protein (g)	Calories	Fat (g)
Standard 6-inch	~32 g	~573	~31
Traditional Large	~65 g	~1146	~61
Subway 6-inch	38 g	500	17
Charleys Regular	51 g	(Not specified)	(Not specified)

Nutritional Considerations Beyond Protein

Beyond protein, traditional cheesesteaks can be high in calories, total fat, saturated fat, and sodium. Moderation is key due to these factors.

How to Build a Healthier Cheesesteak

To make a cheesesteak healthier, consider these modifications:

Use leaner meats like flank steak or chicken.
Reduce cheese quantity or opt for lower-fat varieties.
Increase vegetables like onions, mushrooms, and peppers for added fiber.
Choose a smaller portion or use a lighter roll.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Protein-Rich Treat

Philly cheesesteaks are undeniably rich in protein from their beef and cheese components. While a satisfying meal, traditional versions are also high in fat and sodium. Enjoying cheesesteaks in moderation or making simple substitutions like leaner protein and more vegetables can allow you to savor this iconic sandwich as part of a balanced diet. For recipe ideas and nutritional variations, explore resources like the one from Carlsbad Cravings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a Philly cheesesteak is a great source of protein, with most sandwiches containing between 30 and 65 grams, depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used.

The primary source of protein in a cheesesteak is the thinly sliced beef, which is typically ribeye steak. The cheese, such as provolone or American, also contributes a significant amount of protein.

No, the protein content can vary. A small, homemade cheesesteak using lean meat will have a different nutritional profile than a large, traditional one from a restaurant or a chain, which might use fattier meat and more cheese.

To increase protein and decrease calories, you can use leaner meat like chicken breast or flank steak, reduce the amount of cheese, and load up on extra vegetables like onions and bell peppers.

A traditional cheesesteak is generally not considered a 'healthy' meal due to its high fat, saturated fat, and sodium content. However, when eaten in moderation or with healthier modifications, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Common cheese options include provolone, American cheese, and Cheez Whiz. All are good sources of protein, but their fat and sodium content can vary. For example, provolone often has a sharper flavor and might be a slightly better option than highly processed cheese products.

Yes, adding extra vegetables such as onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers can boost the sandwich's fiber and vitamin content, making it a more nutritionally robust and balanced meal.