The Best Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about sinking your teeth into a hot, cheesy, and savory Philly cheesesteak. This iconic sandwich hails from the streets of Philadelphia, and we’re bringing it straight to your kitchen with a recipe that captures the essence of this beloved classic. With perfectly seasoned ribeye steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and a gooey blend of cheeses all nestled in a soft hoagie roll, this dish is sure to impress whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging yourself. Let’s dive into the details of how to create the best Philly cheesesteak recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of ribeye steak, fresh vegetables, and melty cheese creates a delicious symphony of flavors.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Your Shopping Guide

• 1 lb ribeye: Thinly sliced (can substitute with top sirloin or skirt steak).
• Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and steak.
• 1 large yellow onion: Thinly sliced to add sweetness.
• 2 green bell peppers: Thinly sliced for crunch and color.
• 1 poblano pepper: Thinly sliced for a mild kick.
• 3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese: Freshly grated, for a rich flavor.
• 1/3 cup jarred sweet cherry peppers: Roughly chopped (optional).
• 2-6 tablespoons diced jarred hot cherry peppers: To add heat (optional).
• 8 slices provolone cheese: Classic choice for cheesesteaks.
• 4 soft hoagie rolls: Freshly baked for the best texture.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: For a touch of tang.
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds depth to the flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried parsley: For a flavorful spice blend.
• 1/4 teaspoon each of pepper and red pepper flakes: For a slight kick.
• 1 tablespoon reserved spiced mayonnaise: For added creaminess.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Base for the spiced mayo.
• Hot sauce: To taste (optional).

Before You Start: Equipment

• Skillet or Griddle: For cooking the steak and vegetables.
• Sharp Knife: To slice the steak and vegetables thinly.
• Cutting Board: For preparation.
• Spatula: To flip and mix the ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.

The Best Philly Cheesesteak Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by thinly slicing your ribeye steak. You can freeze the meat for about 30 minutes to make slicing easier. Next, slice the yellow onion, green bell peppers, and poblano pepper. Ensure everything is ready before you start cooking.

Step 2: Make the Spiced Mayonnaise

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of the reserved spices (garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, pepper, and red pepper flakes). Mix well and set aside for assembly.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or griddle, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 2 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the green and poblano peppers. Season with salt, and sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and caramelized. Remove the veggies from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the thinly sliced ribeye. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the meat is browned and cooked through. Add the Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and the cooked vegetables back into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional minute to blend the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

While the meat is still hot, layer the provolone cheese slices over the top and allow them to melt. Prepare your hoagie rolls by spreading the spiced mayonnaise inside each roll. Spoon the cheesy steak and peppers mixture into each roll, ensuring an even distribution. If desired, top with chopped sweet and hot cherry peppers for an extra kick.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Philly cheesesteaks hot with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to drizzle a little hot sauce on top if you like an extra kick!

Seasonal Twists

• Fall: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Winter: Incorporate roasted garlic for warmth.
• Spring: Swap bell peppers for asparagus for a light twist.
• Summer: Grill the vegetables for a smoky flavor profile.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Too Dry: If your steak turns out dry, consider marinating it for a few hours before cooking.
• Too Salty: Balance the flavor by adding a bit of cream to the mixture.
• Overcooked Veggies: Cook them just until tender to maintain some crunch.
• Cheese Not Melting: Cover the skillet with a lid for a minute to help the cheese melt evenly.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the skillet will help maintain the texture.

The Best Philly Cheesesteak Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Chicken or turkey can be used as a lighter alternative, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What kind of cheese is best for a Philly cheesesteak?

Traditionally, provolone cheese is used, but sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses can add great flavor.

How do I make the cheesesteak spicier?

Add more diced hot cherry peppers or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce to amp up the heat!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the steak and veggies ahead of time. Just reheat them before assembling the sandwiches.

Final Bite

There you have it—the best Philly cheesesteak recipe that delivers all the flavor and comfort of the classic sandwich right at home. From the juicy ribeye to the gooey cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family. Perfect for game day, casual dinners, or a feel-good meal anytime, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. So, get cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!