fxtadeusz@gmail.comDescription
Make the best authentic Philadelphia sandwich at home! A cheesy, savory, and flavorful Philly-style recipe perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
fxtadeusz@gmail.comPhilly cheese steak is more than just a sandwich. It’s a real legend of American cuisine that has taken the world’s heart. This mouthwatering combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and crispy hoagie rolls is an excellent idea for a full lunch or dinner. Our easy recipe will help you prepare an authentic Philly cheese steak with family at home with a handful of affordable ingredients. Perfect for a beginner cook, as well as an experienced cooking aficionado, this recipe will make you feel like a real Philadelphian! Discover the secrets of this incredible sandwich that can become a great dinner idea for cold weather!
This appetizing ingredient spread shows everything you need to prepare authentic Philly cheese steak. Thin slices of ribeye beef, fresh hoagie rolls, colorful peppers and onions create a vibrant composition that immediately whets the appetite. These high-quality ingredients are exactly what make homemade Philly cheese steak rival those from the best restaurants in Philadelphia.
My Thoughts Before Getting Started
Before starting the preparation of this iconic dish, let’s take a few minutes to figure out what makes an authentic Philly cheese steak so special. As a seasoned food blogger who has cooked hundreds of sandwiches in my time, I can tell you that this recipe has several key elements that are often missing from home versions.
The first is the choice of meat. Traditionally, it is ribeye or chuck roast, but the most important thing is the right slicing: the meat should be paper-thin. I understand that this may seem daunting, but I have a simple and effective solution for you: put the meat in the freezer for half an hour before slicing, and it will be like butter!
The second important point is cheese. Traditionally, Philly uses Cheez Whiz, but I understand that not everyone can find it. Good substitutes are provolone or American cheese. Remember – the cheese should be perfectly melted and creamy.
The third element is the roll. The classic is hoagie roll, but if it’s not available, choose a French baguette, or simply a quality hot dog bun. The main thing is that it is fresh and has the right texture: crispy on the outside, soft inside.
What do I need to pay attention to when preparing this masterpiece? The temperature of the pan should be high: we need to quickly sear the meat, keeping it juicy. Don’t stir the meat too much: let it brown. Also remember the right order of adding ingredients: first meat, then vegetables, and only at the end – cheese.
And what to avoid? Don’t use too thick pieces of meat, they will be tough. Don’t pour a lot of cheese at once – it may curdle. And most importantly – don’t rush. Although the recipe itself doesn’t take much time, each stage requires attention and precision.
Ingredients List
For 4 servings:
- 2 lbs thinly sliced beef (ribeye or chuck roast)
- 4 fresh hoagie rolls or baguettes
- 10 oz cheese (Cheez Whiz, provolone or American)
- 2 large onions, sliced into strips
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips (optional)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Hot sauce (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
This dynamic collage showcases the key stages of preparing the legendary Philadelphia sandwich. From precise meat slicing, through aromatic vegetable sautéing, to the magical moment of adding cheese – each step is equally important for achieving perfect results. This photo sequence perfectly illustrates that preparing Philly cheese steak is an art that requires attention and precision.
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Put meat in the freezer for 30 minutes, so it will be easier to cut. Cut very thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
Cut onions and peppers into thin strips. Remember – vegetables should be the same thickness as the meat.
Step 3: Prepare Rolls
Split the rolls lengthwise, not all the way through. Lightly warm in the oven (350°F for 3-4 minutes) or on a grill pan.
Step 4: Cook Vegetables
In a large skillet or griddle, heat two tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 5-6 minutes until they are translucent. Add peppers and cook another 4-5 minutes. Move the vegetables to one side of the pan.
Step 5: Cook Meat
Increase heat to high. Add the remaining oil and butter. When the butter has melted, add the meat in one layer. Do not stir for the first 2-3 minutes to allow the meat to brown. Then quickly stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Mix the meat with vegetables in the pan. Add oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Evenly distribute the cheese over the meat and vegetables. Reduce heat and cover for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Step 8: Assemble Sandwich
Transfer the mixture to prepared rolls using a spatula. Serve immediately while hot.
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Why This Recipe is Special
Philly cheese steak is more than a sandwich – it is a true work of art of American culinary culture. This dish was invented in the 1930s in Philadelphia by two brothers, Pat and Harry Olivieri. The original was a simple combination of sliced beef and onions served on a roll. Then cheese was added to the recipe, which gave birth to the legend we know.
What makes this recipe special? First of all, it’s the combination of simplicity and perfection. Each ingredient has a specific purpose – juiciness of meat, sweetness of caramelized onions, freshness of peppers, creaminess of melted cheese combine into a harmonious whole. It’s comfort food in the best sense of the word that warms not only the stomach but also the heart.
In my recipe version, I tried to maintain the authentic spirit of the original, but added a few of my own secrets to make the sandwich even more delicious. The key is to maintain the right temperature of cooking and to time each ingredient correctly.
Here’s the final result of our culinary journey – perfect Philly cheese steak in all its glory. Melted cheese drips from the sides of the crispy roll, colorful vegetables tempt with their freshness, and the juicy aroma of beef almost rises from the photograph. This is exactly how homemade Philly cheese steak should look – like a culinary work of art that tastes as good as it looks.
Tips and Tricks
Choosing and Preparing Meat
The most important element is the right choice of meat. The gold standard is ribeye, but chuck roast also works well and is much cheaper. Remember – the thinner you slice the meat, the better the final result. If you are having trouble cutting the meat, ask your butcher to use a machine to cut it about 1/8-inch thick.
Another important point concerns the marinade. Although traditionally the meat is not marinated, a 15-minute soak in a mixture of oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder will greatly improve the taste.
Secrets of Cheese
If you use Cheez Whiz, heat it slightly in the microwave before adding. It will melt easier. If you use provolone, make sure you use the mild version – it has a more delicate flavor that will not overshadow the meat. American cheese is a great compromise – it’s cheaper than provolone but still gives that creamy consistency.
Important trick – add cheese in small portions, gradually, constantly stirring. In this way, you will avoid lumpy consistency.
Perfect Vegetables
Onions need to be caramelized until they are golden in color – this gives sweetness to the entire dish. Add the peppers only when the onions are almost ready – it should keep a slight crunch. Some purists will argue that real Philly cheese steak should not contain peppers, but I think they are adding flavor and color.
Roll Matters
The roll is the foundation of a good sandwich. If you do not have access to the original hoagie rolls, take the French baguette of the same size. The main thing is that it is fresh and has the right structure: it should be strong enough to hold the filling, but not too hard.
Before using it, lightly warm the roll in the oven – it will become crispier on the outside and soft on the inside.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Version
For lovers of hot flavors, add sliced jalapeño peppers to the bell peppers. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of traditional cheese. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat while cooking.
Philly Cheese Steak Dip
This is a popular version that is perfect for a party. Prepare the ingredients according to the recipe, but instead of arranging them on the rolls, put everything in an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with an additional portion of cheese and bake at 400°F for 15 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers.
Vegetarian Version
Replace the meat with sliced king oyster mushrooms or portobello. Add an extra portion of onions and peppers. Cook mushrooms on high heat so they can give off excess moisture. This version preserves all the flavors of the original.
Philly Cheese Steak Sliders
Perfect for a party! Use small buns and make miniature versions. Proportionally reduce the amount of all ingredients. A great snack by hand.
Crockpot Version
For busy people: put sliced meat, vegetables and spices in a slow cooker. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. Add cheese at the last half hour of cooking.
What to Serve With
Philly cheese steak is a very hearty dish in itself, but a couple of sides can lift the whole story. Classic accompaniments are:
French Fries
Crispy french fries are an absolute classic. Choose thick steak-cut fries or thin shoestring – both versions are perfect with the sandwich.
Onion Rings
Crispy onion rings are also very popular. Their sweetness perfectly balances the richness of cheese and meat.
Pickle Spears
Sour pickles will refresh the taste between the bites. An absolute must-have in every American joint serving Philly.
Cole Slaw
White cabbage slaw will add crunch and freshness. Especially good on hot days.
Beverages
Cold beer is an obvious choice, but classic American sodas or lemonade also work well.
Storage and Reheating
Philly cheese steak is best served immediately after preparation, but if necessary, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Transfer the filling to an airtight container and store separately from the rolls. To reheat, use a pan – the microwave may make the meat tough.
Freezing is also possible: the filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a pan with a little oil.
Authentic Philadelphia Sandwich
Ingredients
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Put meat in the freezer for 30 minutes, so it will be easier to cut. Cut very thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
Cut onions and peppers into thin strips. Remember – vegetables should be the same thickness as the meat.
Step 3: Prepare Rolls
Split the rolls lengthwise, not all the way through. Lightly warm in the oven (350°F for 3-4 minutes) or on a grill pan.
Step 4: Cook Vegetables
In a large skillet or griddle, heat two tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 5-6 minutes until they are translucent. Add peppers and cook another 4-5 minutes. Move the vegetables to one side of the pan.
Step 5: Cook Meat
Increase heat to high. Add the remaining oil and butter. When the butter has melted, add the meat in one layer. Do not stir for the first 2-3 minutes to allow the meat to brown. Then quickly stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Mix the meat with vegetables in the pan. Add oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Evenly distribute the cheese over the meat and vegetables. Reduce heat and cover for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Step 8: Assemble Sandwich
Transfer the mixture to prepared rolls using a spatula. Serve immediately while hot.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, of course! Although traditionally beef is used, chicken (chicken philly) or even turkey are excellent. The main thing is that the meat is sliced very thinly and quickly seared on high heat.
What are the best substitutes for a hoagie roll?
If you do not have access to original hoagie rolls, use a French baguette, submarine sandwich rolls, or even good quality hot dog buns. The main thing is that it is fresh and of the right size.
Can Philly cheese steak be prepared in advance?
The filling can be prepared several hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Before serving, reheat in a pan and add fresh cheese. Rolls are best prepared right before serving to keep them fresh.
Enjoy this authentic Philly cheese steak that will take you right to the streets of Philadelphia! Whether this is your first attempt at this legendary sandwich or you’re trying to perfect your version, these tips will help you get perfect results every time. Remember, cooking is mostly about having fun and experimenting, so don’t be afraid to make this classic your own!
