Best Philly Cheesesteak Recipe: Taste of Philadelphia in Your Kitchen

Craving that iconic, mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak but can’t hop on a plane to Philadelphia? Don’t worry, you can recreate this classic sandwich in your very own kitchen! This recipe delivers an authentic, delicious cheesesteak experience, packed with thinly sliced steak, perfectly melted cheese, and all the right flavors. Get ready to experience a taste of Philadelphia that rivals anything you’d find on South Street!

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just another cheesesteak recipe. We’ve spent time researching and experimenting to perfect the key elements that make a truly great Philly Cheesesteak. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• The Right Steak: We use ribeye, known for its marbling and rich flavor. Thinly slicing it against the grain ensures tenderness and quick cooking.
• Proper Cooking Technique: We emphasize searing the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which lowers the temperature and results in steamed, not seared, meat.
• Cheese Matters: While cheese whiz is traditional, we offer options for both cheese whiz lovers and those who prefer provolone or American cheese. The key is to melt it directly onto the steak for maximum cheesy goodness.
• Onion Perfection: Caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor that perfectly complements the savory steak and cheese.
• The Roll is Crucial: A soft, slightly chewy hoagie roll is essential. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without falling apart, yet soft enough to bite into easily.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Ribeye Steak: Thinly sliced against the grain (ask your butcher to do this for you). Freezing the steak for 30 minutes before slicing makes it easier.
• 1 large Yellow Onion: Thinly sliced.
• 4 Hoagie Rolls: Soft and slightly chewy. Amoroso’s rolls are the gold standard, if you can find them.
• 8 oz Cheese: Choose your favorite! Options include:
  • Cheese Whiz: The classic choice.
  • Provolone Cheese: A sharp and flavorful alternative.
  • American Cheese: Melts beautifully and provides a creamy texture.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For cooking the onions and steak.
• 1 teaspoon Salt: Or to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Or to taste.
• Optional: Hot peppers, ketchup, mayonnaise.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Steak: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. It’s important to get the pan nice and hot.
3. Sear the Steak in Batches: Add the thinly sliced steak to the hot skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until browned and slightly crispy. Use a spatula to chop the steak into smaller pieces as it cooks.
4. Combine the Steak and Onions: Once the steak is cooked, add the caramelized onions back to the skillet and mix them with the steak.
5. Melt the Cheese: Divide the steak and onion mixture into four equal portions in the skillet. Top each portion with your choice of cheese. If using cheese whiz, you can simply dollop it over the steak. If using provolone or American cheese, arrange slices over the steak.
6. Melt the Cheese (Continued): Allow the cheese to melt completely, about 1-2 minutes. You can cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt faster.
7. Assemble the Cheesesteaks: Using a spatula, carefully transfer each cheesy steak portion onto a hoagie roll.
8. Serve Immediately: Serve your Philly Cheesesteaks immediately while they are hot and cheesy. Add your favorite toppings, such as hot peppers, ketchup, or mayonnaise, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the steak in batches ensures that it sears properly and doesn’t steam. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature and results in less flavorful meat.
• Use a Hot Pan: A hot pan is essential for achieving a good sear on the steak. Make sure the oil is shimmering before adding the steak.
• Slice the Steak Thinly: Thinly sliced steak cooks quickly and evenly, and it’s easier to chew. Freezing the steak for a short time before slicing makes it easier to get thin slices.
• Don’t Overcook the Steak: You want the steak to be browned but still tender. Overcooking will make it tough.
• Toast the Rolls (Optional): For a crisper roll, you can lightly toast the hoagie rolls before adding the steak and cheese.
• Experiment with Cheese: While cheese whiz is traditional, don’t be afraid to try different cheeses to find your favorite. Provolone, American, and even pepper jack are all great options.

Storage Instructions

Philly Cheesesteaks are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the cheesesteak in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQ

• Can I use a different cut of steak? While ribeye is the preferred cut, you can also use sirloin or flank steak. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain.
• Can I use frozen steak? Yes, but thaw it completely before slicing. It’s easier to slice when it’s partially frozen, but it needs to be fully thawed for cooking.
• Can I make this ahead of time? You can caramelize the onions ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. However, the steak and cheese are best cooked fresh.
• What kind of peppers should I use? Sweet bell peppers or hot banana peppers are common additions. Choose your favorite!
• Where can I find Amoroso’s rolls? Amoroso’s rolls are a Philadelphia staple and can be found in many grocery stores in the Mid-Atlantic region. If you can’t find them, look for other soft, slightly chewy hoagie rolls.

Conclusion

With this recipe, you’re well on your way to creating a truly authentic and delicious Philly Cheesesteak experience right in your own kitchen. From the thinly sliced ribeye to the perfectly melted cheese and caramelized onions, every element is carefully considered to deliver a taste of Philadelphia that will leave you wanting more. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or skillet), and get ready to enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak you’ve ever had!