The Philly cheesesteak sandwich is an iconic American dish, hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
This sandwich is known for its thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and melted provolone cheese, all served on a soft hoagie roll.
It’s a deliciously savory and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic or looking to try it for the first time, this recipe will guide you through making an authentic Philly cheesesteak at home.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations):
- 1/2 pound (225g) ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 2 hoagie rolls or Italian rolls
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations):
Making a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is straightforward, with a few key steps to ensure it’s perfectly cooked and flavorful.
1. Prepare the Steak
- Slice the steak: If not already done, thinly slice the ribeye steak against the grain. For easier slicing, you can freeze the steak for about 30 minutes before cutting.
- Season the steak: Season the sliced steak with salt and pepper, and set it aside.
2. Cook the Onions and Peppers
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or griddle, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the onions: Add the sliced onions to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and golden brown. If using, add the sliced green bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Set aside: Remove the onions and peppers from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Steak
- Cook the steak: In the same skillet, add the sliced steak. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked through.
- Combine: Return the cooked onions and peppers to the skillet with the steak, and mix everything together.
- Add the cheese: Place the provolone cheese slices on top of the steak and vegetable mixture. Let the cheese melt over the hot mixture, covering the skillet with a lid if necessary to speed up the process.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Toast the rolls: While the cheese is melting, slice the hoagie rolls open and lightly toast them on a grill or in a toaster.
- Fill the rolls: Once the cheese has melted, use a spatula to scoop the steak, onions, peppers, and melted cheese mixture into the toasted rolls.
- Serve: Serve the Philly cheesesteak sandwiches hot, with a side of fries, chips, or a simple salad.
Nutritional Benefits
This Philly cheesesteak sandwich with provolone offers several nutritional benefits:
- High in protein: Ribeye steak provides a good amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in calcium: Provolone cheese adds calcium, important for bone health.
- Source of vitamins: The onions and bell peppers contribute vitamins A and C, as well as fiber.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
Enhance your Philly cheesesteak sandwich with these ideas:
- Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
- Spread a layer of mayonnaise, garlic aioli, or horseradish sauce on the rolls for added creaminess and tang.
- Use different cheeses like American cheese, Cheez Whiz, or mozzarella for a variation in flavor.
- Top with pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Serve with a side of au jus for dipping, for a French dip-style sandwich.
Questions & Answers
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other tender cuts like sirloin or flank steak, but ribeye is preferred for its marbling and flavor.
What if I don’t have a griddle?
You can use a large skillet or frying pan on the stovetop, or even an electric griddle.
How do I prevent the steak from overcooking?
Cook the steak over medium-high heat and keep an eye on it. The thin slices will cook quickly, so stir often and remove from heat as soon as it’s done.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the steak and vegetables ahead of time and reheat them before assembling the sandwich.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover steak and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
What pairs well with a Philly cheesesteak?
This sandwich pairs well with sides like French fries, onion rings, potato salad, or a simple green salad.
Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes, you can substitute the steak with a plant-based meat alternative or use a combination of sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a veggie version.
Can I freeze the cooked steak and vegetables?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked steak and vegetables for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?
Lightly toast the hoagie rolls to help prevent sogginess and avoid overfilling the sandwich with wet ingredients.
Is provolone cheese traditional for Philly cheesesteaks?
Yes, provolone is one of the traditional cheeses used in Philly cheesesteaks, along with American cheese and Cheez Whiz.
Final Note: A Philly cheesesteak sandwich with provolone is a classic and satisfying meal that’s easy to make at home.
With its tender steak, melted cheese, and savory onions, it’s a dish that’s sure to please.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creations—share your delicious Philly cheesesteaks on social media and inspire others to enjoy this iconic sandwich!
