1 serving Beef Cheesesteak (Small) contains 200 calories. If you're a fan of cheesesteak, you probably know how delicious it is. However, it's not always the healthiest option. In this article, we'll explore the calorie and nutrient breakdown of a small beef cheesesteak to help you make an informed decision.
A small beef cheesesteak contains 200 calories, 10 grams of fat, 16 grams of carbohydrates, and 12 grams of protein. It also provides 8% of the daily recommended value of iron. While it's not the lowest calorie option, it can still be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation.
In this article, we'll also provide tips on how to make your cheesesteak healthier, suggest some pairings, and discuss the potential health benefits of the ingredients in a cheesesteak.
Calories in Small Beef Cheesesteak
As mentioned earlier, a small beef cheesesteak contains 200 calories. This amount may vary depending on the ingredients used to prepare it. If you're concerned about your calorie intake, you may want to opt for a smaller portion, share with a friend, or consider making your own at home so you can control the ingredients and portions.
Macronutrients Breakdown
In addition to the calories, it's important to look at the macronutrients in a small beef cheesesteak. As mentioned earlier, it contains 10 grams of fat, 16 grams of carbohydrates, and 12 grams of protein. While the Fat Content may seem high, it's important to note that not all fats are bad for you. In fact, some types of fat, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, can have health benefits when consumed in moderation. The carbohydrates come mainly from the bread or roll used to make the sandwich, and the protein comes from the beef, which is a good source of protein.
Vitamins and Minerals
While a small beef cheesesteak may not be the most nutritious meal, it does provide some vitamins and minerals. As mentioned earlier, it provides 8% of the daily recommended value of iron. It also contains other vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B-12, phosphorus, and zinc, which are all important for overall health.
Healthy Tips
Here are some tips to make your small beef cheesesteak a little healthier: - Choose a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or round. - Load up on veggies, such as peppers and onions, to add more nutrients and fiber to your sandwich.
Suggested Pairings
Looking for a side dish or beverage to pair with your small beef cheesesteak? Here are a few options: - Side dish: A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. - Beverage: Unsweetened iced tea or water with lemon.
Serving Size
The serving size of a small beef cheesesteak may vary depending on where you order it from. However, a general serving size is around 4-5 inches. If you're counting calories or tracking your macronutrient intake, it's important to consider the serving size and adjust your portion accordingly.
Calorie Comparisons
Wondering how many calories are in other types of cheesesteak sandwiches? Here are a few comparisons: - 1 serving of a small chicken cheesesteak: 209 calories - 1 serving of a small veggie cheesesteak: 158 calories
Possible Variations
While a classic beef cheesesteak may be delicious, there are many variations you can try to mix things up: - Swap out the bread for a wrap or pita. - Use a different type of cheese, such as provolone or Swiss.
Preparation Tips
Preparing a small beef cheesesteak at home can be a healthier option and can also be fun to customize to your liking. Here are a few tips: - Slice the beef thinly and cook it in a small amount of oil on a griddle or in a pan. - Add sliced onions and peppers to the pan and cook until they're soft and slightly caramelized. Top with cheese and let it melt before serving on a roll.
Health Benefits
While a small beef cheesesteak may not be the healthiest meal, it does provide some potential health benefits: - Beef is a good source of protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair. - The vegetables used in a cheesesteak, such as onions and peppers, provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are important for overall health.
A small beef cheesesteak can be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Cheesesteak (Small)
1. How many calories are in a small beef cheesesteak serving?
One small serving of beef cheesesteak contains approximately 200 calories.
2. Does the 200 calorie count include cheese and toppings?
This calorie count typically includes the beef and basic toppings such as onions and peppers. Adding cheese and other toppings can increase the calorie count.
3. Is a small serving enough for a meal?
The size of a small beef cheesesteak can vary depending on where you purchase it, but it is generally considered a smaller portion size. Whether or not it is enough for a meal will depend on your personal preferences and hunger levels.
4. Is beef cheesesteak a healthy choice?
The overall healthiness of a beef cheesesteak will depend on various factors such as the type of beef used, the amount of cheese and toppings, and the cooking method. That being said, it may not be the most nutritious choice due to high levels of fat and sodium.
5. Can beef cheesesteak be made healthier?
Yes, there are ways to make a beef cheesesteak healthier such as choosing lean cuts of beef, opting for low-fat cheese, and limiting high-sodium toppings. You can also try making a homemade version using healthier ingredients.