Introduction
The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic American sandwich, originating from Philadelphia in the early 1930s. Known for its tender, thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and gooey melted cheese, the Philly cheesesteak has earned a place in the hearts and stomachs of people across the country. Traditionally served on a hoagie roll, the sandwich is often paired with a variety of toppings, but the classic combination of beef, cheese, and onions remains unbeatable. Whether you’re craving a quick meal or a comforting snack, the Easy Philly Cheese Steak is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of Philadelphia without the need for a long, complicated recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can recreate this beloved sandwich in the comfort of your own kitchen.
The History of the Philly Cheese Steak
The story of the Philly cheesesteak dates back to the 1930s when Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in Philadelphia, decided to experiment by grilling beef and placing it on an Italian hoagie roll. Legend has it that a passing cab driver caught a whiff of the delicious aroma and asked for one himself. Soon, Pat’s beef sandwich became a hit, and he opened a stand called “Pat’s King of Steaks,” which still operates today. The cheesesteak gained national recognition over time, with other famous cheesesteak spots, like Geno’s Steaks, springing up nearby. The sandwich has become synonymous with Philadelphia cuisine, with passionate debates over which place serves the best version. Today, Philly cheesesteaks are a beloved comfort food that has made its way into kitchens far beyond the borders of Pennsylvania.
Ingredients Breakdown
To make an easy and delicious Philly cheesesteak, you need just a few key ingredients. The base of the sandwich is thinly sliced beef, typically ribeye or sirloin, which provides a tender texture and rich flavor. Onions are an essential component, typically sautéed until caramelized for a sweet and savory contrast to the beef. Cheese is the defining element of a Philly cheesesteak, with the classic choice being provolone or Cheez Whiz. Provolone gives the sandwich a slightly tangy and creamy flavor, while Cheez Whiz offers a rich, velvety texture that many consider the true Philly experience. A hoagie roll or sub roll serves as the perfect vessel to hold all these ingredients, and a little butter is often used to toast the rolls, adding flavor and a crispy texture. Optional toppings such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or hot peppers can add extra flavor and variety to the sandwich.
Step-by-Step Recipe:
1. Start by preparing your ingredients. Slice the beef into thin strips. If you’re using ribeye or sirloin, make sure the slices are as thin as possible for easy cooking. Chop the onions and prepare your cheese—either provolone slices or Cheez Whiz, depending on your preference. 2. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and sauté until they soften and begin to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the onions from the pan and set them aside. 3. In the same skillet, add a little more oil or butter, then toss in the sliced beef. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the beef for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. 4. Add the caramelized onions back to the pan with the beef, mixing them together. 5. Once the beef and onions are well combined and heated through, add the cheese on top of the mixture. If you’re using provolone, just place the slices on top and let them melt. If you’re using Cheez Whiz, pour it over the beef and onion mixture. 6. While the cheese melts, split your hoagie rolls and butter them lightly. Toast the rolls in a separate pan or in the oven until golden and crispy. 7. Once the rolls are ready and the cheese has melted over the beef and onions, spoon the mixture into the rolls, ensuring each one gets a generous portion. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Easy Philly Cheese Steak
To make the perfect Philly cheesesteak, it’s important to slice the beef as thinly as possible. If you have a sharp knife or even a meat slicer, it can make this step easier. A common trick is to freeze the beef for about 20 minutes before slicing; this helps it hold its shape and makes it easier to cut thin pieces. When cooking the beef, don’t overcrowd the pan. It’s better to cook in batches if necessary to ensure the meat browns properly. Caramelizing the onions is key to balancing the richness of the beef, so make sure to take the time to cook them low and slow. If you’re using provolone cheese, it’s best to let it melt slowly on top of the beef mixture, while Cheez Whiz should be added directly to the meat so it can melt into the sandwich. Lastly, remember that the bread is just as important as the filling. A soft yet sturdy hoagie roll that can hold the ingredients without falling apart is essential for the perfect cheesesteak.
Variations and Customizations
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is beloved for its simple ingredients, there are many ways to customize this dish. If you prefer a different cheese, you can use mozzarella, American cheese, or even Swiss cheese for a slightly different flavor. For added heat, you can incorporate hot peppers or jalapeños into the mix. You could also sauté bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions to add more depth and texture to the sandwich. For those who want a lighter option, consider using leaner cuts of beef like flank steak or skirt steak, or swap the beef entirely for grilled chicken for a different take on the classic. Some people even like to add a drizzle of steak sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of rolls, such as baguettes or ciabatta, for a slightly different experience.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While the Easy Philly Cheesesteak is undeniably delicious, it’s also a rich and indulgent dish. Beef provides a good source of protein and iron, but it can also be high in fat and calories, especially when combined with cheese and butter. To make the sandwich a little lighter, you can opt for a leaner cut of beef, such as flank steak or sirloin, and reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat version. For those looking to lower their carb intake, you can swap the hoagie roll for a low-carb or gluten-free option. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can increase the nutritional value and provide extra fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s important to enjoy this sandwich as an occasional treat rather than an everyday meal, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute the beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- What’s the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak? Provolone and Cheez Whiz are the traditional choices, but mozzarella or American cheese also work well.
- Can I make this sandwich ahead of time? While the Philly cheesesteak is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat the beef and onions before assembling the sandwich.
- Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can use any type of roll you prefer, but a hoagie roll is the most traditional choice.
- Is there a vegetarian version of a Philly cheesesteak? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using portobello mushrooms or plant-based beef alternatives as the main filling.
Easy Philly Cheese Steak
Ingredients
- 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
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons coarse Kosher salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
Instructions
- Start by placing the steak in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm it up for easier slicing into thin strips. Trim off any excess fat, season the steak with salt and pepper, and set it aside.
- Slice the onions and set them aside. Carefully split the hoagie rolls lengthwise about ¾ of the way through using a serrated knife.
- Combine the softened butter and minced garlic, then spread the garlic butter on the cut sides of the hoagie rolls. Toast the rolls on a griddle or skillet over medium heat until golden brown, then set them aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Sauté the onions for 8-10 minutes, until they are slightly caramelized. Transfer the onions to a bowl and set them aside.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced steak in an even layer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring to achieve a nice sear, then flip the steak and cook the other side. Add the sautéed onions back to the pan and stir everything together.
- Use a spatula to divide the meat and onions into 4 portions in the pan. Place 2 slices of provolone cheese on each portion, then turn off the heat.
- Spread a thin layer of mayo on the cut sides of the toasted hoagie rolls. Place a roll over each portion of meat, onions, and cheese. Use a spatula to flip the meat and cheese onto the roll, completing the Philly cheesesteak. Serve immediately.