How many calories in a 12 inch philly cheesesteak? A full nutritional breakdown

November 22, 2025 •

4 min read

While the exact figure varies greatly, a typical 12-inch philly cheesesteak from a restaurant can contain between 980 and over 1,300 calories. This wide range depends heavily on specific ingredients, preparation methods, and toppings, all of which are crucial for understanding the full nutritional impact of this popular sandwich.

Quick Summary

A 12-inch Philly cheesesteak's calorie count is not fixed and depends on its components. We provide a breakdown of how bread, meat, cheese, and toppings influence the final total, compare nutritional differences between restaurant and homemade versions, and explore options for a lighter meal.

Key Points

Variable Calorie Count: A 12-inch Philly cheesesteak from a restaurant typically ranges from 980 to over 1,300 calories, varying by ingredients.
Ingredient Impact: The calorie count is heavily influenced by the hoagie roll (up to 400+ cal), cut of steak (380+ cal), and type of cheese (200+ cal per serving).
Restaurant vs. Homemade: Restaurant sandwiches often contain higher calories and fat, while homemade versions allow for significant reductions through healthier substitutions.
Healthier Alternatives: To lower calories, use leaner cuts of steak, chicken, or mushrooms, and opt for a whole-wheat or smaller bun.
Mindful Toppings: Be aware that high-calorie condiments like mayonnaise can add hundreds of calories, so consider light additions like extra vegetables instead.

Calorie Breakdown by Ingredient

To understand the total caloric value of a 12-inch philly cheesesteak, it's essential to examine each component individually. The classic ingredients—the roll, the meat, and the cheese—are the primary contributors, with add-ons increasing the final number.

The Hoagie Roll

The foundation of any cheesesteak is the bread. A 12-inch Italian hoagie roll is a significant source of carbohydrates and adds a considerable amount of calories. A single 12-inch roll can contribute anywhere from 330 to over 400 calories. The exact number is influenced by the type of bread, its density, and the preparation method, such as being toasted with butter or oil.

The Steak

The type and quantity of meat play a major role in the overall calorie count. The traditional choice is thinly sliced ribeye steak. For a 12-inch sandwich, a standard portion might be 5 to 6 ounces of uncooked meat, which can exceed 380 calories before cooking. The way the steak is cooked also matters; using more oil will increase the total caloric and fat content. Leaner cuts of steak are a less common but healthier alternative.

The Cheese

Cheese is a defining element, and its type affects the nutrition. Popular choices include American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz. A few slices of provolone can add around 200 calories to the sandwich. Cheez Whiz is another common option, and its caloric contribution varies based on the amount used. The cheese content is a simple way to either increase or decrease the final number.

Toppings and Condiments

Additional toppings and condiments, while seemingly minor, can quickly elevate the calorie count. Sautéed onions and peppers add minimal calories (around 10-20 calories each), but mayonnaise can add over 100 calories per serving. Other potential add-ons like extra oil, hot peppers, or mushrooms should also be factored in when calculating the total.

Restaurant vs. Homemade Calorie Comparison

There is a notable difference in the calorie counts of restaurant and homemade cheesesteaks, primarily due to portion sizes and ingredient control. Homemade versions often allow for healthier substitutions and better portion control, leading to a significantly lower calorie count.


Feature	Restaurant Cheesesteak	Homemade Cheesesteak
Calories (12-inch)	980–1330+ calories	~600–800 calories
Ingredient Control	Little to no control over portions or ingredients.	Full control over meat, cheese, and oil portions.
Fat Content	Typically higher due to more oil and fattier cuts of meat.	Can be reduced by using leaner cuts and less cooking oil.
Sodium Content	Often very high, exceeding daily recommended values.	Can be managed by using less processed cheese and salting lightly.
Customization	Limited to menu options and available toppings.	Endless possibilities for healthier substitutions.

Creating a Healthier Philly Cheesesteak at Home

If you're looking to enjoy the flavors of a philly cheesesteak without the high calorie count, making one at home is the best solution. Here is a list of ways you can significantly reduce the caloric and fat content:

Choose a leaner cut of meat: Instead of fatty ribeye, opt for leaner flank steak or sirloin. You can also use chicken breast or even mushrooms as a substitute for a vegetarian option.
Modify the bread: Use a whole-wheat hoagie roll or a smaller, 6-inch bun to cut down on carbohydrates. Some recipes suggest a low-carb alternative like a lettuce wrap to make it even healthier.
Lighten the cheese: Switch from provolone or American to a lower-fat cheese option. A small amount of reduced-fat provolone or a sprinkling of parmesan cheese can provide the flavor with fewer calories.
Control the oil: Use a minimal amount of cooking spray or a teaspoon of olive oil to sauté the meat and vegetables instead of pouring oil liberally into the pan.
Increase vegetables: Load up your sandwich with more sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. This adds bulk, flavor, and nutrients without adding significant calories.
Skip the extras: Say no to caloric add-ons like mayonnaise or extra cheese. A sprinkle of black pepper and some fresh herbs can add plenty of flavor without the added fat.

Conclusion

While a 12-inch philly cheesesteak is a delicious and hearty meal, it is also a calorie-dense one, with restaurant versions often containing over 1,000 calories. The caloric value is not static and depends on factors like the type of meat, cheese, and condiments used. For those looking to manage their intake, preparing a homemade version offers full control over ingredients and portion sizes, making it possible to enjoy a lighter, yet equally satisfying, meal.

By making informed choices about the components, such as opting for leaner meat, less oil, and controlling cheese portions, you can dramatically reduce the calorie count. Whether you're enjoying a classic from a favorite restaurant or creating a custom, healthier version at home, understanding the nutritional breakdown is the first step toward a more balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary contributors to a cheesesteak's high calorie count are the large hoagie roll, the fatty cut of steak, and the generous portion of cheese.

A homemade philly cheesesteak is not automatically healthier, but it provides full control over ingredients and portion sizes, allowing you to make intentional, healthier choices like using leaner meat and less cheese.

Yes, skipping the cheese is an effective way to reduce calories, as it is a significant contributor. You could also opt for a lower-fat cheese or use less of a full-fat cheese.

A 12-inch hoagie roll for a sub can contain between 330 and 417 calories, depending on the brand and type of bread.

For a healthier alternative, substitute steak with chicken breast or mushrooms, use a smaller or whole-wheat roll, and load up on extra vegetables like onions and bell peppers.

No, adding vegetables such as onions and peppers only adds a small number of calories (typically less than 20 per serving) and is a great way to add flavor and nutrients.

While both add calories, the overall amount depends on the quantity used. However, Cheez Whiz often contains different preservatives and fat content than natural provolone cheese, though both can be high in sodium and calories.