Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe – Quick Dinner Ideas

Why Make This Recipe

Philly cheesesteak sandwiches are a popular and satisfying meal that brings together tender steak, sautéed veggies, and gooey cheese all nestled inside a warm hoagie roll. This classic dish has its roots in Philadelphia but has gained fans everywhere for good reason. It’s hearty, delicious, and surprisingly easy to prepare at home. By making this recipe, you can enjoy the authentic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak without the need to take a trip to the city. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or want to impress friends and family, this dish hits all the right notes.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Creating a Philly cheesesteak sandwich involves just a few steps, making it an ideal option for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. This recipe is straightforward, and with a little prep, you can have these tasty sandwiches on your table in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 6 slices provolone cheese
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced onion and bell peppers. You want to sauté these veggies until they are tender and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Season with a little salt and pepper for added flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

While the veggies are cooking, prepare the ribeye steak. If you haven’t done so already, thinly slice the steak against the grain. Once the veggies are cooked, push them to one side of the skillet. Add the sliced steak to the empty side of the skillet. Cook the steak for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is browned and cooked through. Make sure to mix the steak with the veggies for the last minute of cooking to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 3: Combine Steak and Veggies

After the steak is fully cooked, mix it in with the sautéed onions and peppers. Stir everything together until the contents of the skillet are well combined and heated through. This is the part where the aromas really come together, creating a mouthwatering smell in your kitchen!

Step 4: Toast the Rolls

While the steak and veggies finish cooking, take the hoagie rolls and slice them lengthwise, leaving a hinge. Spread a little butter on the insides of each roll. Place the rolls butter-side down on a skillet or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they’re golden and toasted. Toasting the rolls adds a delightful crunch and helps prevent them from becoming soggy when filled.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Now it’s time to build your sandwiches! Start by placing a generous portion of the steak and veggie mixture into each toasted hoagie roll. Top it off with slices of provolone cheese, letting the warm ingredients melt the cheese slightly. You can either serve these open-faced or wrap them up, depending on your preference.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

The best way to serve Philly cheesesteak sandwiches is to enjoy them fresh and hot from the skillet. Pair them with some classic sides like crispy French fries, onion rings, or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with a side of pickles or chips for added crunch. For those who like a little heat, consider adding hot peppers or a drizzle of hot sauce on top of the sandwich before serving.

These sandwiches are perfect for casual weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or any time you want to enjoy comfort food. They’re easy to eat with your hands, making them a great choice for parties and gatherings with friends.

How to Store Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is important to keep them delicious! Allow the components of the sandwich to cool completely before storing. Place the leftover steak and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the hoagie rolls separately to avoid sogginess. You can also wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in a cool, dry place.

To enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the steak and veggies in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can toast the hoagie rolls again if desired, or simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. Assemble and enjoy your delicious Philly cheesesteak sandwiches once more!

Tips to Make Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

1. Slice the Steak Thinly: The key to tender steak in your cheesesteak is to slice it thinly against the grain. This not only helps with the texture but also allows the meat to cook quickly.

2. Use Quality Cheese: Provolone cheese is traditional for cheesesteaks but feel free to experiment with different cheeses like American or mozzarella for varied flavors and textures.

3. Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings, like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or even barbecue sauce. These additions can elevate the flavor of your sandwich.

4. Cook Everything at the Right Temperature: Ensure that your skillet is hot enough so that the steak cooks quickly and remains juicy. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as that can cause steaming instead of searing.

5. Toast Your Rolls: Always toast your hoagie rolls to prevent them from becoming soggy. This step adds a great crunch to the sandwich and enhances the overall eating experience.

Variation

While the classic Philly cheesesteak is beloved for its simplicity, there are many ways to customize this sandwich to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ribeye steak with portobello mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. Add some cheese for richness.

• Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak: Use thinly sliced cooked chicken breast tossed in buffalo sauce instead of ribeye steak. Add blue cheese for a tangy touch.

• Spicy Jalapeño Cheesesteak: Add chopped jalapeños to the veggie mix for a spicy kick. You might also consider using pepper jack cheese for extra heat.

• Cheesesteak Quesadillas: Instead of hoagie rolls, use flour tortillas to make cheesesteak quesadillas. Melt cheese in the quesadilla for a cheesy, crispy treat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of steak for Philly cheesesteak?

Yes, while ribeye steak is traditional due to its marbling and flavor, you can use other cuts like flank steak, sirloin, or even chicken. Just ensure the meat is thinly sliced for the best results.

How do I make a cheesesteak less greasy?

To make your cheesesteak less greasy, use less oil when cooking the steak and veggies. You can also opt for leaner cuts of meat or trim any excess fat before cooking.

Can I freeze Philly cheesesteak sandwiches?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked steak and veggie mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze the mixture separately from the hoagie rolls to maintain their texture. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet or microwave.

What can I serve with Philly cheesesteak sandwiches?

You can serve these sandwiches with a variety of sides such as French fries, potato chips, cole slaw, or a light salad. They pair well with anything that adds crunch and freshness to balance the flavors.

Is this recipe spicy?

The traditional Philly cheesesteak is not spicy, but you can easily add heat by including spicy peppers or seasoning the steak with hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to meet your preferences!

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