Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

Creating the perfect Philly cheesesteak brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners and gatherings. The aroma of sizzling steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese fills the air, bringing everyone to the table. There’s something about this classic sandwich that feels like home, a meal that effortlessly brings a smile.

As a kid, I remember watching my parents master the art of making this iconic dish. Each layer of flavor built upon the last, creating a delicious sandwich that was more than just food—it was an experience. The combination of juicy beef, caramelized onions, and gooey provolone cheese showcases why the Philly cheesesteak holds a special place in the hearts of many.

Making an Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak at home doesn’t require expert culinary skills. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate that comforting feeling in your own kitchen. Let’s explore how to whip up this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a game day or a casual weeknight meal, this Philly cheesesteak recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Mastering the Philly Cheesesteak

Fundamentals

The foundation of a classic Philly cheesesteak lies in its ingredients and preparation. Using quality cuts of beef such as top sirloin or ribeye sliced thinly will ensure a tender and flavorful sandwich. The crispness of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions adds a beautiful crunch, while the melted provolone cheese blankets everything in rich creaminess.

Maintaining the balance of flavors starts with understanding the importance of each ingredient. Toss in some sautéed mushrooms for added depth or adjust the seasoning to your taste. With just a few staples, you create a dish that’s both personal and versatile.

Preparation/Setup

To get started, place 2 pounds of top sirloin or ribeye in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This helps to firm up the meat, making it easier to achieve those perfect, thin slices. After trimming any excess fat, season the beef with coarse kosher salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the meat.

Next, prepare your vegetables. Chop one large yellow onion and slice a green and red bell pepper. These chopped vegetables will add a pop of color and sweetness. To save time, have everything prepped and ready before cooking begins. This way, the cooking process will flow smoothly, making for an enjoyable experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak:

• 2 pounds top sirloin steak or ribeye, trimmed and sliced very thin
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 8 slices mild provolone cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 4 hoagie rolls, sliced through
• 4 oz sliced mushrooms
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Directions

1. Begin by placing the steak in the freezer for 30 minutes to achieve a firm texture for slicing into thin strips. Trim excess fat from the beef and season it with coarse kosher salt and black pepper. Set aside.
2. Chop the onion and set it aside. Use a serrated knife to carefully slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise about ¾ of the way through.
3. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic. Spread this garlic butter mix on the cut sides of the hoagie rolls. Toast the rolls on a griddle or skillet over medium heat until golden brown and set aside.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions for 8-10 minutes until they become slightly caramelized. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside.
5. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Once hot, evenly lay the thinly sliced steak in the pan. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes without moving, giving it a nice sear before flipping it over to cook the other side.
6. Add the sautéed onions back to the pan, stirring them together with the steak.
7. Use a spatula to divide the meat and onions into four portions in the pan. Top each portion with 2 slices of provolone cheese, then turn off the heat.
8. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the cut sides of the toasted hoagie rolls. Place a roll over each portion of the meat, onions, and cheese. Carefully use a spatula to flip the meat onto the roll, completing your Philly cheesesteak. Serve promptly.

Perfecting Your Cheesesteak

Technique

Successfully making a cheesesteak relies on temperature control. Start with a hot skillet to achieve a fantastic sear on the steak, sealing in the juices. The quick cooking time ensures that the beef remains tender rather than tough.

When cooking the onions, patience is key. Allow them to caramelize slowly to draw out their natural sweetness. Keep stirring gently to prevent burning while savoring that delicious aroma filling your kitchen.

Tips and Tricks

• If possible, choose thinly sliced steak from your butcher. If slicing at home, use a sharp knife and freeze the meat slightly, as mentioned earlier.
• Consider adding a small amount of Worcestershire sauce to the meat for extra flavor.
• For a fun twist, experiment with additional toppings like jalapeños or banana peppers for heat.

Elevating Your Cheesesteak Experience

Perfecting Results

To achieve the ultimate cheesesteak, make sure the cheese is adequately melted over the steak and onions. You can place a lid on the skillet for a minute to enhance the melting process. A quality provolone cheese will melt beautifully, creating that signature cheesesteak gooeyness.

Toast your hoagie rolls until they’re crusty and golden. The texture plays an essential role in the overall experience of your sandwich. This crunch will complement the softness of the filling.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If you find that your meat is tough, consider lowering the cooking temperature next time and cooking it for a slightly longer period. Also, if you prefer your cheese to be more intense, swap the provolone for Cheez Whiz for a classic touch.

Add your favorite veggies or switch up the cheeses based on what you have at home. The beauty of the cheesesteak is its adaptability based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences.

Serving the Perfect Cheesesteak

Presentation

To present your Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak, place the sandwich on a plate and serve with homemade fries or a light salad. The contrast of colors will make the dish visually appealing. A sprinkling of fresh herbs or a side of pickled vegetables will elevate even simple meals to restaurant quality.

Pairings and Storage

For sides, try crispy potato chips or a refreshing coleslaw. Serve your cheesesteak with a pickle spear for that classic diner touch.

Store any leftover components separately, ensuring the bread remains fresh and the meat doesn’t become soggy in the fridge. Reheat the steak and veggies quickly in a skillet before assembling the sandwich again, avoiding a soggy sandwich experience.

Cherish this process of preparing your own cheesesteak at home. With practice, it will become a beloved staple in your meal rotation that everyone in your home looks forward to enjoying.

Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

Recreate the comforting flavor of classic Philly cheesesteak with juicy beef, caramelized onions, and gooey provolone cheese, perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds top sirloin steak or ribeye, trimmed and sliced very thin
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 8 slices mild provolone cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 4 hoagie rolls, sliced through
• 4 oz sliced mushrooms
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

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Instructions

1. Place the steak in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up for slicing.
2. Trim excess fat from the beef and season with coarse kosher salt and black pepper.
3. Chop the onion and slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise.
4. Mix softened butter with minced garlic and spread on the cut sides of the hoagie rolls. Toast on medium heat until golden.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet and sauté onions for 8-10 minutes until caramelized.
6. Increase heat and add remaining tablespoon of oil. Cook the thinly sliced steak for 2-3 minutes until seared, then flip.
7. Add sautéed onions back to the pan and stir with the steak.
8. Divide meat and onion mixture into four portions, topping each with 2 slices of provolone cheese.
9. Turn off the heat and spread mayonnaise on the toasted hoagie rolls.
10. Flip the meat onto the rolls, completing your cheesesteak. Serve promptly.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce to the meat or experimenting with additional toppings like jalapeños.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: philly cheesesteak, sandwich, comfort food, beef, easy recipe