The Philly Cheese Steak is a savory masterpiece that combines thinly sliced ribeye steak, caramelized onions, bell peppers, and melted provolone cheese all wrapped up in a soft hoagie roll. It’s the ultimate comfort food that is sure to impress!
With its bold flavors and satisfying ingredients, this classic sandwich is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or enjoying a laid-back dinner at home. It’s a perfect meal to enjoy on a cozy evening, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 onion, thinly sliced
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1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 hoagie rolls
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4 slices provolone cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the onions, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
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Add the sliced ribeye steak to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the steak is browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
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Cut the hoagie rolls open and toast them lightly if desired.
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Divide the steak and vegetable mixture among the hoagie rolls and top each with a slice of provolone cheese.
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Place the sandwiches under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 540 kcal | Servings: 4 sandwiches
The Ultimate Philly Cheese Steak: A Taste of Tradition
The Philly Cheese Steak is an iconic sandwich that has been a beloved American dish for decades. With its origins deeply rooted in Philadelphia, this hearty sandwich has become a staple of comfort food, offering a savory combination of tender ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and melted provolone cheese all sandwiched inside a hoagie roll. While the recipe might seem simple, the magic lies in the balance of flavors and textures, making it a true masterpiece of American cuisine.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheese Steak
The Philly Cheese Steak has a long and colorful history that dates back to the 1930s. The sandwich was born in the streets of Philadelphia when Pat Oliviero and his brother Harry decided to open a hot dog stand. One day, Pat had the idea to put some steak on a roll, adding grilled onions and peppers. What started as a humble creation grew into the beloved sandwich that we now call the Philly Cheese Steak.
Pat’s King of Steaks, founded by Pat Oliviero, is considered one of the first places to serve the sandwich, and it remains an iconic spot in Philly to this day. Since its inception, the sandwich has grown in popularity, with various versions of the recipe appearing in diners, food trucks, and restaurants across the country. However, no matter how many variations exist, the essence of the Philly Cheese Steak remains the same: tender, flavorful steak, melted cheese, and a crusty hoagie roll.
The Elements of a Perfect Philly Cheese Steak
One of the key factors in making a truly great Philly Cheese Steak lies in the ingredients. While there are variations to suit different tastes, certain components are essential to capturing the essence of this classic dish.
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The Steak: Traditionally, Philly Cheese Steaks are made with ribeye steak, which has a perfect combination of tenderness and flavor. The steak should be thinly sliced against the grain to ensure it cooks quickly and remains tender. Some variations may use other cuts like sirloin, but ribeye is the classic choice. The steak should be cooked just long enough to sear it and lock in the juices, ensuring each bite is full of savory goodness.
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The Cheese: While there is some debate about which cheese is best for a Philly Cheese Steak, provolone is widely considered the cheese of choice. Its mild flavor and creamy texture complement the richness of the steak without overpowering it. Some may opt for Cheez Whiz or American cheese, which creates a creamier, smoother texture. Each option adds its own twist, but provolone is the most traditional and widely accepted.
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The Onions: The onions play a critical role in the sandwich, providing a sweet and savory contrast to the rich steak. They should be caramelized until they are golden brown, which brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the sandwich. Many recipes also include bell peppers, mushrooms, or even hot peppers to add additional flavor and texture to the dish.
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The Roll: The bread used for the sandwich is just as important as the fillings. A good hoagie roll or sub roll is essential for holding all the ingredients together. The roll should be slightly crusty on the outside but soft on the inside, providing the perfect vehicle for the delicious steak and cheese. It should also be sturdy enough to withstand the juicy steak and melted cheese without falling apart.
How to Make a Classic Philly Cheese Steak
While the ingredients for a Philly Cheese Steak are simple, there is an art to preparing them in the right way. The steak must be cooked just right not too rare and not overcooked. The onions must be caramelized slowly to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness, and the cheese must be melted to perfection.
The sandwich is typically assembled by layering the cooked steak and vegetables on a toasted roll, then topping it with the melted cheese. For those who enjoy a bit more flavor, additional condiments like hot sauce or mayo can be added, but the classic version is simply the steak, cheese, onions, and a roll.
Regional Variations of the Philly Cheese Steak
While the classic Philly Cheese Steak recipe is beloved by many, there are numerous regional variations that have emerged over the years. Some of these variations have become just as popular as the original, with certain ingredients and preparation methods taking the spotlight.
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Cheez Whiz Philly Cheese Steak: One of the most famous variations is the Cheez Whiz Philly Cheese Steak, where instead of provolone cheese, a processed cheese sauce like Cheez Whiz is melted on top of the steak. This version is beloved by many Philadelphians, who consider it to be the true Philly Cheese Steak.
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Mushroom and Onion Philly Cheese Steak: In this variation, sautéed mushrooms are added to the mix, giving the sandwich a rich, earthy flavor that complements the beef and onions. This version is perfect for those who love the combination of steak and mushrooms.
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The Italian Philly Cheese Steak: For a twist on the classic, some add Italian-style ingredients like marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and even pepperoni to create an Italian-inspired version of the sandwich. This variation offers a more robust and tangy flavor profile.
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The Veggie Philly Cheese Steak: While not as traditional, the veggie Philly Cheese Steak is a vegetarian alternative where plant-based proteins like tofu or seitan are used in place of the steak. With sautéed vegetables, vegan cheese, and a soft roll, it provides a delicious option for those who prefer a meat-free version of this classic dish.
Why the Philly Cheese Steak Is So Popular
The Philly Cheese Steak is more than just a sandwich – it’s a cultural icon. It represents the rich culinary tradition of Philadelphia, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of tender steak, gooey cheese, and savory onions makes it an irresistible choice for anyone looking for a satisfying and hearty meal.
The popularity of the Philly Cheese Steak has spread far beyond the city of Philadelphia, and now you can find variations of it across the United States and even internationally. It’s a comfort food that brings people together, whether enjoyed at a casual lunch with friends or served as the centerpiece of a family dinner.
The Philly Cheese Steak Today
Today, the Philly Cheese Steak continues to evolve while maintaining its original essence. Many modern restaurants offer gourmet versions, using high-quality cuts of meat, artisan rolls, and premium cheeses. Some may even offer customization options, allowing diners to add extra toppings like avocado, bacon, or fried onions.
Despite the changes and additions, the heart of the Philly Cheese Steak remains unchanged it’s all about the perfect balance of steak, cheese, and bread. Whether enjoyed in a fancy restaurant or made at home in your own kitchen, the Philly Cheese Steak is sure to remain a favorite for years to come.
Conclusion:
The Philly Cheese Steak is a true American classic that has stood the test of time. From its humble beginnings in Philadelphia to becoming a global favorite, it remains a beloved dish for people of all ages. With its combination of tender steak, melted cheese, and savory toppings, this sandwich is the perfect comfort food. Whether you prefer the traditional version or a modern twist, there’s no denying that the Philly Cheese Steak continues to be a fan favorite across the world.
Making this sandwich at home allows you to recreate the magic of this iconic dish, adding your own personal touch along the way. So the next time you’re craving something hearty, savory, and downright delicious, consider whipping up your own Philly Cheese Steak. It’s a meal that never disappoints and always satisfies.