Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Introduction

The Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is one of the most iconic American sandwiches, originating from the heart of Philadelphia. Known for its mouthwatering combination of thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and gooey melted cheese, all served on a warm hoagie roll, this sandwich is the very definition of indulgence and comfort food.

What makes the Philly Cheesesteak so special is its perfect balance of flavors and textures: the tender beef paired with the sweetness of caramelized onions, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the soft yet crusty bread that holds it all together. It’s a culinary experience that brings both nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite.

Whether you’re making it at home for a quick weeknight dinner, serving it at a game-day gathering, or just treating yourself to something hearty and flavorful, the Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is a true classic that deserves a spot in your recipe collection.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love the Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich because it is one of those rare recipes that is both incredibly simple and outrageously delicious. It requires only a handful of ingredients, yet the end result is rich, satisfying, and unforgettable.

I also love how customizable it is—you can keep it traditional with provolone cheese and onions or add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spicy jalapeños for a twist. It’s a sandwich that can be adapted to your preferences while still staying true to its roots.

Lastly, the Philly Cheesesteak is a dish that always brings people together. Whether I’m serving it for a family dinner or a group of friends, it’s always a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

The Philly Cheesesteak is a must-try because it represents a true piece of American culinary culture. Born in Philadelphia in the 1930s, this sandwich has stood the test of time and gained worldwide fame.

It’s a must-try dish because:

• It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
• The flavors are classic and timeless, appealing to both kids and adults.
• It’s a quick recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results right at home.

If you’ve never had one before, making it at home will give you a new appreciation for just how incredible a “simple” sandwich can be.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Calories (per serving): ~550–600 calories (depending on bread and cheese used)
• Course: Main Course (Sandwich)
• Cuisine: American (Philadelphia classic)

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ribeye steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 green bell pepper (optional, thinly sliced)
• 1 cup mushrooms (optional, thinly sliced)
• 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
• 8 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese, or Cheez Whiz for a classic Philly style)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Steak:
   • Place ribeye steak in the freezer for 30 minutes before slicing—this makes it easier to cut into thin strips. Slice thinly against the grain.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions, peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Steak:
   • In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Increase heat to medium-high. Add sliced steak, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 3–4 minutes until just browned.
4. Combine Steak & Veggies:
   • Return the onions (and peppers/mushrooms if added) to the skillet with the steak. Toss together for 1–2 minutes.
5. Melt the Cheese:
   • Lay cheese slices over the steak mixture in the skillet. Let it melt slightly, then stir gently to combine OR keep it melted on top, Philly-style.
6. Prepare the Rolls:
   • Slice hoagie rolls open and lightly toast them. Optionally spread with butter or mayo.
7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   • Pile the cheesy steak mixture evenly into each roll. Serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with a side of fries, potato chips, or a crisp salad.
• Add a pickle spear on the side for a deli-style touch.
• For game day, slice each sandwich in half and serve on a platter.

Recipe Tips

• Meat Choice: Ribeye steak is traditional, but sirloin or flank steak works too.
• Cheese Options: Provolone is classic, but American cheese melts beautifully. Cheez Whiz is iconic in Philly.
• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce while cooking the steak.
• Crispy Bread: Toasting the hoagie rolls adds crunch and prevents sogginess.

Variations

1. Classic Philly Style: Steak, onions, and Cheez Whiz only.
2. Mushroom Philly: Add sautéed mushrooms for earthiness.
3. Spicy Philly: Add jalapeños or hot peppers.
4. Chicken Philly: Swap ribeye for thinly sliced chicken breast.
5. Garlic Philly: Add roasted garlic butter spread to the hoagie roll.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover steak mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
• Freezer: Cooked steak mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
• Do not freeze assembled sandwiches (bread will become soggy).

Special Equipment Needed

• Sharp chef’s knife (for thin slicing steak)
• Large skillet or griddle
• Tongs or spatula
• Cutting board

Conclusion

The Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is more than just a meal—it’s an American classic that delivers bold, comforting flavors in every bite. With tender beef, melty cheese, and sautéed onions nestled in a soft roll, it’s the kind of sandwich that leaves you satisfied and craving more.

Whether you stick to tradition or add your own creative twist, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s easy enough for weeknights, hearty enough for gatherings, and delicious enough to be unforgettable.

Print Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Author: Laura Bennett Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner, Lunch

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 35 mins

Calories: 550–600 kcal per serving

Description

The Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is one of the most iconic American sandwiches, originating from the heart of Philadelphia.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 ½ pounds ribeye steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 green bell pepper (optional, thinly sliced)
• 1 cup mushrooms (optional, thinly sliced)
• 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
• 8 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese, or Cheez Whiz for a classic Philly style)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak: Place ribeye steak in the freezer for 30 minutes before slicing—this makes it easier to cut into thin strips. Slice thinly against the grain.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions, peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Increase heat to medium-high. Add sliced steak, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 3–4 minutes until just browned.
4. Combine Steak & Veggies: Return the onions (and peppers/mushrooms if added) to the skillet with the steak. Toss together for 1–2 minutes.
5. Melt the Cheese: Lay cheese slices over the steak mixture in the skillet. Let it melt slightly, then stir gently to combine OR keep it melted on top, Philly-style.
6. Prepare the Rolls: Slice hoagie rolls open and lightly toast them. Optionally spread with butter or mayo.
7. Assemble the Sandwiches: Pile the cheesy steak mixture evenly into each roll. Serve hot.

Keywords: Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe