Understanding Your Meal: How much protein is in a 12 inch Philly cheese steak?

October 17, 2025 •

4 min read

The protein content in a 12-inch Philly cheese steak can vary significantly, ranging from approximately 55 to 77 grams, depending heavily on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. The classic combination of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a hoagie roll makes for a protein-rich meal.

Quick Summary

The protein in a 12-inch Philly cheese steak is primarily from the ribeye steak and cheese, varying based on preparation and portion size. This article explores the average protein count, breaks down the macronutrients, and compares it to other sandwiches, helping you understand its nutritional role in your diet.

Key Points

High Protein Count: A 12-inch Philly cheese steak typically offers between 55 and 77 grams of protein, mainly from the ribeye steak and cheese.
Ingredients Matter: The exact protein content depends on the cut of beef, type of cheese, and size of the hoagie roll used.
Nutrient-Dense but Calorie-Heavy: While high in protein, the sandwich is also rich in calories, fat, and sodium, making it an indulgent meal.
Healthy Variations Available: You can make a Philly cheese steak healthier by opting for a leaner cut of meat, less cheese, and more vegetables.
Comparison with Other Sandwiches: A cheesesteak provides more protein than many other popular sandwiches but at a higher caloric cost.
Moderation is Key: Enjoying a cheesesteak in moderation or customizing it with healthier ingredients is a good strategy for fitting it into a balanced diet.

The Protein Powerhouse: A Breakdown of the Philly Cheese Steak

A 12-inch Philly cheese steak is a substantial meal, and a large portion of its nutritional value comes from its high protein content. While specific numbers vary by restaurant and recipe, data from nutrition databases provide a clear picture. For instance, a 12-inch cheesesteak from a restaurant like QuickChek lists approximately 55 grams of protein, while other generic 12-inch versions reported by Nutritionix can contain up to 65 grams. A larger or gourmet-style sandwich might push this even higher, with one report noting a 12-inch version with 77 grams. This significant protein load makes the classic sandwich a filling and satiating meal, but it is important to consider all the macronutrients involved.

Factors Influencing Protein Content

The total protein count is not just about the steak. It's a combination of several key ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the primary protein sources in a traditional Philly cheese steak:

The Steak: The beef, typically thinly sliced ribeye, is the main contributor. The amount of steak used can significantly affect the overall protein. Using a lean cut can manage fat content while still providing a high-quality protein source.
The Cheese: The choice of cheese plays a role. While provolone is a classic choice, many establishments also offer Cheez Whiz or American cheese. Cheeses like provolone and mozzarella offer substantial protein, contributing to the total count.
The Hoagie Roll: The bread is not just for holding the ingredients; it adds to the macronutrient profile. A typical 12-inch hoagie roll can provide around 9 to 15 grams of protein, especially if it is a denser or whole-wheat variety.

Beyond Protein: A Full Nutritional Picture

Understanding the full nutritional profile of a 12-inch Philly cheese steak is key to fitting it into a balanced diet. The same ingredient choices that affect protein also impact total calories, fat, and sodium. For example, a 12-inch cheesesteak with 65 grams of protein might also contain over 1,100 calories, 61 grams of fat, and a staggering 1,400+ milligrams of sodium. This highlights the sandwich's status as an indulgent food to be enjoyed in moderation.

Ways to Make a Cheesesteak Healthier

For those looking to enjoy the flavors of a Philly cheese steak while managing their nutrition, several modifications can help reduce the less-desirable components without sacrificing too much flavor:

Leaner Meat: Opt for a leaner cut of beef or use less fatty ground beef. Some recipes even substitute the beef with healthier alternatives like chicken or plant-based proteins.
Less Cheese: Reducing the amount of cheese or choosing a lower-fat variety can significantly cut down on saturated fat and calories. Switching from Cheez Whiz to provolone can make a difference, as can asking for a lighter portion.
Add Vegetables: Loading up on extra grilled onions, peppers, and mushrooms adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making the meal more filling and nutrient-dense.
Smaller Portion: Simply opting for a 6-inch sandwich instead of the 12-inch automatically halves the intake of all macronutrients and calories, making it a more balanced lunch option.

Comparative Analysis: Philly Cheese Steak vs. Other Sandwiches

To put the Philly cheese steak's protein content into perspective, let's compare it to a few other popular large sandwiches. This table uses general estimates for 12-inch versions or equivalents, based on nutrition data for standard ingredients.


Sandwich Type	Estimated Protein (12-inch / Equivalent)	Key Protein Sources	Notable Macronutrient Consideration
Philly Cheese Steak	55-77g	Steak, Provolone Cheese, Hoagie Roll	High in calories and saturated fat; high sodium
Turkey Sub	~45-55g	Turkey Breast, Cheese, Whole Wheat Roll	Generally lower in fat; excellent source of lean protein
Tuna Salad Sub	~40-50g	Tuna, Greek Yogurt (healthier option)	Can be high in fat depending on mayo; a healthier version is possible
Grilled Chicken Sandwich	~35-40g	Chicken Breast	Often lower in fat and calories, particularly when grilled

As the table illustrates, the Philly cheese steak is one of the more protein-dense sandwich options, but it is also among the highest in overall calories and fat. Individuals on a high-protein diet for muscle building may find its macro profile appealing, while those monitoring fat and sodium need to be more mindful of portion size and ingredients.

Conclusion

So, how much protein is in a 12 inch Philly cheese steak? The answer is that it's substantial, typically providing between 55 and 77 grams of protein from the beef and cheese alone, with a few more grams from the roll. However, its indulgence comes with a trade-off in high fat, calorie, and sodium content, making it a meal best enjoyed in moderation or adapted for a healthier profile. By understanding the nutritional breakdown, you can make informed choices to fit this classic comfort food into your diet. For those who want to dig even deeper into nutrition, tools like calorie counters and dietary trackers can offer precise information based on specific ingredients and brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

The thinly sliced beef, typically ribeye steak, is the main source of protein in a Philly cheese steak. The cheese and the hoagie roll also contribute to the total protein count.

A traditional Philly cheese steak is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium. However, it can be made healthier by opting for lean beef, less cheese, and adding more vegetables.

Yes, the type of cheese impacts the nutritional profile. Cheeses like provolone and American have different protein and fat contents, which slightly alter the final nutritional value.

To reduce calories, you can choose a smaller portion (e.g., a 6-inch sub), use a leaner cut of meat, or ask for less cheese. Adding extra vegetables can also help.

The protein from the beef and cheese is considered 'complete,' meaning it contains all the essential amino acids your body needs. The protein from the hoagie roll can complement this.

Based on nutritional data, a 12-inch Philly cheese steak can contain over 60 grams of fat, with a significant portion being saturated fat.

A 12-inch cheesesteak often contains more protein than a standard cheeseburger, but both can be high in fat and calories depending on size and preparation.