This recipe showcases tender and flavorful strips of beef, caramelized onions, and melty provolone cheese, all packed into a warm hoagie roll. It’s a mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors, perfect for a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal. The secret lies in the marinade and the technique used to achieve the perfect balance of tenderness and seasoning in the meat. Paired with savory onions and the gooey richness of melted cheese, this classic sandwich is elevated to a new level of deliciousness.

Philly Cheesesteak Ingredients

Thinly sliced beef (ribeye is ideal)
Hoagie rolls or Italian rolls
Provolone cheese, American cheese, or Cheez Whiz
Onions (caramelized)
Optional: Bell peppers, mushrooms, garlic, and mayonnaise
What Cut is Best for Philly Cheesesteak Meat?
The best cut for a Philly Cheesesteak is ribeye steak because it’s tender, flavorful, and well-marbled. Thinly slicing the ribeye is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Other cuts like flank steak or skirt steak can work, but ribeye is the traditional choice.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak?

Creating the perfect Philly Cheesesteak is all about mastering the balance of juicy, tender beef, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked onions, all tucked into a soft hoagie roll. Follow these detailed steps to make an authentic and delicious sandwich.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ribeye steak: Thinly sliced, well-marbled beef for ultimate flavor and tenderness.
Onions: Yellow or white onions for a sweet, caramelized touch.
Cheese: Provolone, American cheese, or Cheez Whiz.
Hoagie rolls: Soft and sturdy bread that holds up to the fillings.
Optional toppings: Bell peppers, mushrooms, mayonnaise, or garlic butter.

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Choose the Right Cut: Use ribeye steak for the most tender and flavorful result. If ribeye isn’t available, you can substitute skirt or flank steak.

Slice Thinly: For the best texture, freeze the steak for about 30 minutes to firm it up, then slice it thinly against the grain. This ensures the meat cooks quickly and remains tender.

Step 2: Cook the Onions (and Optional Veggies)

Slice the Onions: Cut onions into thin strips for even cooking.
Sauté: Heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they’re golden brown and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
Optional Add-Ins: If using bell peppers or mushrooms, slice them thinly and add them to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking the onions.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Preheat the Skillet: Use a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
Cook the Meat: Spread the thinly sliced steak in an even layer in the hot skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce.
Brown the Steak: Sear the meat for 2-3 minutes without stirring to develop a nice crust, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. The steak should be browned but still juicy.

Step 4: Add the Cheese.

Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, spread the cooked meat evenly in the skillet, and top it with slices of cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt quickly.
Mix Together: Once the cheese is melted, use a spatula to mix the cheese into the meat for even coverage.

Step 5: Prepare the Hoagie Rolls

Toast the Rolls (Optional): Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise and toast them lightly under a broiler or in a skillet for added texture. You can spread a thin layer of garlic butter or mayonnaise for extra flavor.
Fill the Rolls: Spoon the meat and cheese mixture directly into the hoagie rolls, ensuring every bite is packed with filling.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Optional Toppings: Add caramelized onions, sautéed peppers, or mushrooms on top of the meat.
Serve Immediately: Philly Cheesesteaks are best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve alongside fries, onion rings, or a simple salad.

Pro Tips for Success

Use a Griddle or Large Skillet: This provides enough space to cook the meat and onions evenly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the meat in batches if needed to prevent steaming.

Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone for a classic taste or Cheez Whiz for a street-style vibe.
Bread Warmth: Always use warm or lightly toasted bread to enhance the sandwich experience.

What Cheese is Best for Philly Cheesesteak?

The cheese plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture of a Philly Cheesesteak. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the best options:

Provolone Cheese

Flavor: Mild, slightly nutty, and creamy. It enhances the natural flavors of the beef without overpowering them.
Texture: Melts smoothly, creating a satisfying, gooey layer over the meat.
Best For: Traditional Philly Cheesesteak lovers who prefer a classic taste.
American Cheese

Flavor: Rich, creamy, and slightly salty. It adds a nostalgic diner-style flavor.
Texture: Extremely smooth and gooey when melted, making the sandwich indulgent and satisfying.
Best For: Those who love a creamier, cheesier experience.
Cheez Whiz

Flavor: Bold, processed, and intensely cheesy. It has a unique tangy kick that’s iconic to certain Philly Cheesesteak recipes.
Texture: Velvety and ultra-smooth, it’s perfect for drizzling over the meat.
Best For: Fans of the authentic street-style Philly Cheesesteak, as Cheez Whiz is a classic choice in Philadelphia.
Other Cheese Options

Mozzarella: Offers a mild flavor and stretchy texture but isn’t as common in traditional recipes.
Sharp Cheddar: For a more pronounced, tangy flavor, but it doesn’t melt as smoothly as other options.
Pepper Jack: Adds a spicy kick for those who like a little heat in their cheesesteak.

How to Choose the Best Cheese?

Traditional Experience: Go for Provolone or Cheez Whiz.
Creamy and Smooth: American cheese is your best bet.
Custom Flavors: Experiment with cheddar or pepper jack if you want something unique.

What Bread is Best for Philly Cheesesteak?

The bread is just as important as the meat and cheese in a Philly Cheesesteak, as it acts as the vessel holding all the delicious components together. Here’s a detailed guide to choosing the best bread for an authentic and enjoyable experience:

Soft Hoagie Rolls

Why They’re Best: Soft hoagie rolls are the traditional choice for a Philly Cheesesteak. They have a tender texture that complements the juicy meat and gooey cheese while being sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without falling apart.
Texture: Slightly chewy but soft inside, with a thin, crisp outer crust.
Size: Typically 6 to 8 inches long, the perfect size for a hearty sandwich.

Amoroso Rolls

The Gold Standard: If you’re looking for the most authentic option, Amoroso rolls are widely regarded as the traditional bread used in Philadelphia’s famous cheesesteak shops. They’re known for their soft interior and lightly crusty exterior.
Availability: These rolls are iconic but may be harder to find outside the Philadelphia area. Some bakeries or online stores might carry them.

Italian Rolls

A Great Alternative: Italian rolls are similar to hoagie rolls but may have a slightly firmer crust. They work well if you want a more robust bread that can hold up to extra toppings like peppers or mushrooms.
French Baguette (Not Ideal)

Why It’s Less Suitable: A French baguette may be too crusty or hard for a cheesesteak, making it difficult to bite through without the fillings spilling out. If used, it should be a soft baguette with a thin crust.
Sub Rolls

A Convenient Option: Standard sub sandwich rolls can work in a pinch. Just make sure they’re fresh and soft to avoid overpowering the sandwich’s texture.

What to Look for in Bread?

Softness: The bread should have a tender crumb to soak up the juices from the meat without becoming soggy.
Sturdiness: It must be strong enough to hold the fillings without breaking apart.

Flavor: Mildly flavored bread works best, as it allows the meat, cheese, and onions to shine.

Toasting the Bread

For added texture and flavor, you can lightly toast the inside of the hoagie roll before assembling the sandwich. This creates a slight crunch and helps prevent the bread from getting soggy.

By choosing the right bread, you’ll ensure your Philly Cheesesteak has the perfect balance of taste and texture, making every bite a delicious experience.

What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak?

French fries or potato wedges
Onion rings
A simple green salad
Pickles or coleslaw
Sweet potato fries

How to Store the Meat for Philly Cheesesteak?

Refrigeration: Store the cooked meat and veggies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Warm on the stove or microwave, adding a bit of moisture (like broth) to prevent dryness.
Can You Freeze Philly Cheesesteak?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meat and vegetables:

Freezing: Cool completely and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Thawing and Reheating: Defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

FAQs section

What is the original Philly Cheesesteak recipe?

The original Philly Cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and melted cheese (traditionally Cheez Whiz or provolone) served on a soft hoagie roll. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, highlighting the quality of the meat and bread.

What is the difference between a cheesesteak and a Philly cheesesteak?

A cheesesteak is a general term for a sandwich made with thinly sliced beef and cheese. A Philly cheesesteak refers specifically to the version popularized in Philadelphia, which traditionally uses ribeye steak, onions, and either Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese on a hoagie roll.
How do you slice ribeye for cheesesteak?

To thinly slice ribeye, freeze the steak for about 30 minutes until it’s firm but not fully frozen. Use a sharp knife to cut against the grain into very thin slices. This ensures tender, easily cooked pieces.
What toppings go on a Philly cheesesteak?

Traditional toppings include caramelized onions and cheese. Additional options can include sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and even banana peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor. Some people also add mayonnaise or garlic aioli.

Is a Philly cheesesteak healthy?

A Philly cheesesteak is not typically considered healthy due to its high fat, calorie, and sodium content. However, you can make healthier versions by using leaner cuts of beef, whole-grain bread, and lighter cheese options.

Can I use chicken for a Philly cheesesteak?

Yes! A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a popular variation. It uses thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs as a substitute for beef, paired with the same classic toppings and cheese.

What are the most popular Philly cheesesteak variations?

Pizza Steak: Includes marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak: Features chicken, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese or ranch.
Vegan Philly Cheesesteak: Uses plant-based meat alternatives, vegan cheese, and veggies.

How do you make a Philly cheesesteak without a griddle?

If you don’t have a griddle, use a large cast-iron skillet or frying pan. Cook the onions, meat, and cheese in the pan, then transfer everything to a hoagie roll. Press the sandwich lightly to warm and toast the bread if desired.