Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches

In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step to create an authentic Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich with fresh ingredients, a delicious mix of flavors and textures, and tips for customizing this sandwich with your preferred toppings and sauces.

Ingredients

For the sandwich:

• 1 lb (450g) of beef (preferably flank steak, ribeye, or sirloin, thinly sliced)
• 4 hoagie rolls (or sub rolls, or any long, soft bread)
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for added flavor and color)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for richness)
• 4 slices American cheese (or provolone, cheddar, or even raclette for a creamier touch)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Worcestershire sauce (optional, for an extra umami flavor)

For the homemade sauce (optional):

• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for some heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Start by preparing your beef. If you haven’t already purchased thinly sliced beef, you can buy flank steak, ribeye, or sirloin and slice it yourself. To make slicing easier, place the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes before cutting. This will firm up the meat, making it easier to slice thinly.

Slice the onion and bell pepper into thin strips. You can also add mushrooms or other vegetables to your Philly Cheesesteak if you prefer.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

In a large skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell pepper (if using). Sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Once done, remove them from the pan and set them aside in a bowl.

3. Cook the Beef:

In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of butter and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef to the hot skillet. You may need to cook the beef in batches depending on the size of your pan. Cook the beef for about 2-3 minutes, or until it is browned on the outside but still tender inside. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

If you’d like to add extra flavor, you can splash in a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce while cooking the beef. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the beef is fully cooked, return the onions and bell peppers to the pan and toss everything together. Let the flavors combine for an additional minute or two.

4. Assemble the Philly Cheesesteak:

Once the beef is cooked and the vegetables are combined, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Slice the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise, but be careful not to cut all the way through. Leave the bottom intact so the sandwich holds together well.

If you like a little extra crispiness on your bread, you can lightly toast the rolls in the oven or on a griddle for a few minutes until they are golden and slightly crunchy.

Scoop portions of the beef and vegetable mixture into each hoagie roll. Top with a slice of cheese. Traditionally, American cheese is used because it melts perfectly, but you can also use provolone, cheddar, or even raclette cheese for a different flavor profile.

For the ultimate melt, cover the sandwiches with a lid for 1-2 minutes to help the cheese melt, or place them under a low broiler for a few moments.

5. Make the Homemade Sauce (Optional):

While your cheesesteaks are melting, you can prepare a simple homemade sauce to drizzle over the sandwich. In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of ketchup, 1 teaspoon of mustard, and 1 teaspoon of hot sauce (if you like some heat). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.

This sauce adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory beef and melted cheese, but feel free to skip it if you prefer your Philly Cheesesteak with just the meat and cheese.

6. Serve:

Once the cheese has melted and the sandwiches are assembled, serve them immediately. You can drizzle the homemade sauce over the sandwiches or serve it on the side for dipping. Pair your Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches with crispy fries, potato chips, or a simple side salad to complete your meal.

Possible Variations

While the classic Philly Cheesesteak is simple and straightforward, there are many ways you can customize this sandwich to suit your taste:

• Philly Cheesesteak with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan with the onions and peppers for an earthy, savory flavor that complements the beef and cheese beautifully.
• Chicken Philly Cheesesteak: If you prefer chicken over beef, simply swap out the beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs. Chicken cheesesteaks are a lighter alternative, but they are equally delicious.
• Cheesesteak with Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or tomatoes to your sandwich for a fresh twist.
• Spicy Philly Cheesesteak: If you love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy sriracha sauce to your sandwich for an extra kick.
• Different Cheeses: While American cheese is the traditional choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or provolone for a more complex flavor. Some people even use a mix of cheeses for a rich and creamy melt.

Tips for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak

• Thinly slice the beef: The key to a great Philly Cheesesteak is the thinness of the beef. Thin slices cook quickly and remain tender. A good rule of thumb is to freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing it to help achieve uniform, paper-thin slices.
• Don’t overload the sandwich: While it might be tempting to pile on the ingredients, it’s important not to overstuff the sandwich. A well-balanced Philly Cheesesteak has enough beef, cheese, and veggies to be flavorful, but not so much that it becomes difficult to eat.
• Use quality bread: The bread is just as important as the fillings. You need a soft hoagie or sub roll that can hold the filling but also provide a bit of texture. The bread should be chewy on the inside but lightly crispy on the outside if toasted.
• Use a hot pan: To ensure the beef gets seared properly, use a hot pan and work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will cause the meat to steam rather than sear.
• Melt the cheese thoroughly: Don’t rush the cheese-melting process. Cover the sandwich with a lid or use the broiler to ensure that the cheese melts completely and becomes gooey.

Serving Suggestions

The Philly Cheesesteak is a filling and flavorful sandwich, but it’s also versatile enough to be served with a variety of sides:

• French Fries: Crispy, golden fries are a classic side dish for Philly Cheesesteaks. You can either make your own or use frozen fries for convenience.
• Potato Chips: If you want something lighter, a side of potato chips (especially ridged chips) is a great crunchy addition.
• Pickles: A tangy pickle on the side can help cut through the richness of the cheese and beef, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Coleslaw: For a cool, creamy contrast, serve your Philly Cheesesteak with coleslaw. The crunch and tang of the coleslaw balance the savory sandwich nicely.

Conclusion

The Philly Cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you’re craving a savory sandwich. Whether you stick to the traditional version or experiment with your favorite variations, the Philly Cheesesteak is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

This sandwich is an excellent choice for family gatherings, casual get-togethers, or even a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With its combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers, it’s a meal that will satisfy even the hungriest appetites. So grab your hoagie rolls, your favorite cheese, and get ready to enjoy one of the most beloved sandwiches in America. Enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak!