Understanding the Calories in a Jersey Mike's Philly
When ordering a Philly cheesesteak from Jersey Mike's, the final calorie count is not a single number but a range influenced by a few key decisions. The most important factors are the size of the sub, whether you choose steak or chicken, and how you choose to have it prepared. The basic components—the bread, meat, cheese, and toppings—all contribute to the overall nutritional profile. For instance, a Regular #17 Steak Philly on classic white bread clocks in at around 640 calories, but opting for a Giant size more than doubles that figure.
Calorie Breakdown by Philly Type and Size
Jersey Mike's offers several Philly options, with the most popular being the #17 Steak Philly and the #16 Chicken Philly. Each comes in multiple sizes, and the calorie difference is substantial. The choice of bread also plays a role in the total. For those counting calories, understanding the variations is crucial for making an informed decision. For example, a Mini sub can be a complete, satisfying meal without the high calorie cost of a Giant, which is often intended for sharing.
Deconstructing the Philly: What Adds Calories?
Several elements contribute to the high-calorie nature of a Philly cheesesteak. A standard Philly sub is packed with thinly sliced grilled meat, melted cheese, and grilled onions and peppers, all served on a roll. Here is a brief list of the components that add up the calories:
- The Bread: The size and type of bread have a major impact. White and wheat rolls contribute a significant number of carbohydrates and calories. The Giant size uses a much larger roll, dramatically increasing the calorie count.
- The Meat: Both the steak and chicken are cooked on the grill, and while high in protein, they contain fat. The larger the portion of meat, the more calories it adds.
- The Cheese: Classic Philly cheesesteaks are known for their melted cheese. Jersey Mike's uses American cheese, which is a calorie-dense ingredient.
- The Preparation: The "Mike's Way" preparation adds oil and vinegar, which also contribute calories. For those seeking to cut down, skipping or reducing these can help.
How to Reduce Calories in Your Jersey Mike's Philly
For a healthier version of your favorite Philly, consider these customization options:
- Opt for a "Sub in a Tub": This is the single most effective way to drastically reduce calories. By skipping the bread and serving the Philly ingredients over a bed of lettuce, the calorie count drops considerably.
- Choose the Mini Size: If you still want the traditional sub experience, selecting a Mini size over a Regular or Giant will control your portion and calorie intake.
- Go Easy on the Oil: Ask for less oil and vinegar, or skip it entirely, to shave off extra fat and calories.
- Load up on Veggies: Request extra grilled onions and peppers, which add flavor and volume without adding a significant number of calories. For fresh toppings on a tub, add lettuce, tomatoes, and other low-calorie vegetables.
Jersey Mike's Philly Calorie Comparison
| Item | Size | Bread/Container | Estimated Calories | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #17 Steak Philly | Regular | White Sub | 640 | |
| #17 Steak Philly | Giant | White Sub | 1440 | |
| #17 Steak Philly | Regular | Wheat Sub | 730 | |
| #17 Steak Philly | Giant | Wheat Sub | 1270 | |
| #17 Steak Philly | Tub | N/A | 430 | |
| #16 Chicken Philly | Regular | White Sub | 730 | |
| #16 Chicken Philly | Giant | White Sub | 1340 | |
| #16 Chicken Philly | Regular | Wheat Sub | 720 | |
| #16 Chicken Philly | Giant | Wheat Sub | 1450 | |
| #16 Chicken Philly | Tub | N/A | 370 |
This table illustrates the wide range of calorie counts for different Philly options. Choosing the protein and size that best fits your dietary goals can make a big difference in the total calorie intake. The "Sub in a Tub" option is a particularly compelling choice for anyone aiming for a lower-calorie meal, especially with the chicken version coming in at a very reasonable 370 calories.
Conclusion
To determine how many calories is a philly from Jersey Mike's, you must first consider the size and whether it's the steak or chicken version. A regular sub can fall in the 640-730 calorie range, while a Giant size can exceed 1,400 calories. Customization is key to managing your intake. By opting for a "Sub in a Tub," choosing a smaller size, or modifying your toppings, you can significantly lower the calorie total without sacrificing flavor. Always check Jersey Mike's official nutritional information for the most accurate and up-to-date data for your specific order. For an easy-to-navigate tool, you can check out the Jersey Mike's Nutrition Facts pages on sites like Eat This Much or Nutritionix. The ability to customize your sub allows for a delicious and flexible meal that can be tailored to various dietary needs.
