The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich renowned for its tender beef, melted cheese, and flavorful toppings. Originating in Philadelphia, this sandwich has gained popularity worldwide.
If you’re craving an authentic and mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak, you are right the place. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through the steps to create the best ever Philly cheesesteak that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Philadelphia.
1. Original Philadelphia Cheesesteak Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ribeye steak
- 1 large onion
- 4 hoagie rolls or Amoroso rolls
- 4-6 slices provolone cheese or Cheez Whiz
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients: Start by freezing the ribeye steak for about 20 minutes. This helps firm up the meat, making it easier to slice it very thin. Once sliced, season the steak with salt and pepper to taste. Thinly slice the onion as well, and set aside.
Cook the Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft and caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and remove them from the skillet once done. Set them aside.
Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced ribeye steak. Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through but still tender and juicy. It’s important not to overcook the steak, as you want it to remain moist.
Assemble the Sandwich: Once the steak is cooked, add the caramelized onions back to the skillet and stir everything together. Then, cut the hoagie rolls open and lay them flat on a clean surface. If you prefer, you can toast the rolls lightly in a separate pan for a bit of crunch.
Add the Cheese: Place the slices of provolone cheese or spoon the Cheez Whiz onto the steak and onions in the skillet. Allow the cheese to melt into the meat for about 1-2 minutes. If you’re using Cheez Whiz, simply drizzle it over the steak mixture. The cheese should melt and create a creamy, savory base for the sandwich.
Build the Cheesesteak: Spoon the cheesy steak and onion mixture into each hoagie roll, making sure to pack it generously. For extra flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or hot cherry peppers, but remember, the classic Philly cheesesteak keeps it simple.
Serve: Serve the cheesesteak hot and fresh, and enjoy the authentic taste of Philadelphia!
2. Tips for Perfect Cheesesteak Sandwich
Thinly Slice the Steak: The thinner the steak, the better. Use a sharp knife or a meat slicer if you have one. Freezing the steak for a short time helps with slicing and keeps the meat firm.
Get the Right Rolls: Amoroso rolls are a staple in Philly cheesesteaks. They have the right amount of softness and structure to hold the meat and cheese without getting soggy. If you can’t find them locally, any fresh hoagie roll will work in a pinch.
Don’t Overcook the Steak: Ribeye is a tender cut, and overcooking it can make it tough. Cook it just enough to heat through and keep it juicy.
Cheese Choice: Provolone gives a classic, creamy melt, but if you’re after that true Philly experience, opt for the Cheez Whiz. It may seem unconventional, but it’s the cheese that has defined the Philly cheesesteak for decades.
Don’t Overload with Toppings: While mushrooms and peppers are great add-ons, the beauty of a cheesesteak is in its simplicity. Keep it classic for the best experience.
3. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Cheesesteaks are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for later indulgence. If you have any leftover steak mixture, follow these steps:
Store Properly: Allow the steak mixture to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 2-3 days.
Reheat Gently: When reheating, use a skillet over low heat to gently warm the steak and onions. If the steak looks dry, add a small splash of water or broth to help rehydrate it. For the rolls, you can toast them lightly in the oven to bring back a bit of crunch.
A true Philadelphia cheesesteak is all about simplicity—quality ribeye, caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and a soft hoagie roll. Having made this recipe countless times, I can confidently say that mastering the technique is well worth the effort. Once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why Philly takes so much pride in this iconic sandwich.
Now, it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out. Would you go for provolone or the classic Cheez Whiz? Either way, you’re in for an unbeatable treat.
Enjoy your homemade Philly cheesesteak! 🧀🥩
