Classic Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

The Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is a beloved classic, known for its tender slices of steak, melted cheese, and flavorful veggies, all served on a soft, crispy loaf of French bread. Originating in Philadelphia, this iconic sandwich is both hearty and satisfying, featuring ribeye steak, provolone cheese, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Each ingredient plays a role in making this sandwich rich and flavorful, while the Worcestershire sauce and butter add an extra depth of taste. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a weekend treat, this homemade Philly Cheesesteak recipe will bring the flavors of Philadelphia straight to your kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces ribeye steak, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper, divided
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow onion, sliced
  • 4 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 loaf French bread, cut in half lengthwise
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

  1. Season the steak with half of the kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the sliced steak to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it browns and develops a slight crust.
  4. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce over the steak, giving it a rich, savory flavor.
  5. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced green bell pepper, yellow onion, and mushrooms to the skillet.
  3. Season with the remaining salt and pepper.
  4. Cook the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and slightly caramelized.
  5. Remove from heat once they’re cooked and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread 1/3 cup of mayonnaise evenly on the cut sides of the French bread.
  3. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and warm them in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes. This will lightly toast the bread, making it crispy on the outside and soft inside.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

  1. Layer the cooked steak evenly on the bottom half of the bread.
  2. Add the cooked vegetables (bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms) on top of the steak.
  3. Place the provolone cheese slices over the steak and vegetables, ensuring even coverage.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

  1. Place the assembled sandwich back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.
  2. Remove from the oven and press the top half of the bread onto the filling.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Slice the sandwich into individual servings, if desired.
  2. Serve hot, and enjoy your homemade Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

(Approximate values based on a recipe serving 4 people)

  • Calories: 620 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Sodium: 950mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

  • While provolone is traditional, you can also use American cheese or cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.

2. What if I don’t have ribeye steak?

  • Thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak can also work. Ribeye is preferred for its tenderness and marbling, but these options are good substitutes.

3. Can I skip the mayonnaise?

  • Yes, if you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can leave it out or replace it with a garlic aioli for added flavor.

4. Do I have to add mushrooms?

  • Mushrooms add a nice earthy flavor, but they are optional. You can leave them out if preferred.

5. Can I make this sandwich spicy?

  • Absolutely! Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the steak or vegetables for some heat.

Tips for Making the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

  1. Choose the Right Bread: A soft, sturdy French bread or hoagie roll works best for this sandwich. Avoid bread that’s too crusty, as it can make the sandwich difficult to bite into.
  2. Slice the Steak Thinly: Thinly sliced ribeye is essential for a tender, easy-to-eat sandwich. Partially freezing the steak for 10-15 minutes can make slicing much easier.
  3. Cook in Stages: To prevent overcooking, cook the steak first and set it aside, then cook the vegetables. This keeps everything from becoming soggy.
  4. Season Gradually: Adding salt and pepper in stages ensures each ingredient is well-seasoned, enhancing the overall flavor of the sandwich.
  5. Customize the Veggies: You can add or remove vegetables based on preference. Try adding red bell peppers or even some caramelized garlic for a flavor twist.
  6. Use High-Quality Cheese: Provolone’s mild, creamy flavor complements the steak and vegetables. For a sharper taste, try a mix of provolone and mozzarella.

Storage Tips

  1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  2. Freezing: While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Wrap individual portions in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 1 month in the freezer.
  3. Reheating: For best results, reheat the sandwich in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will keep the bread crispy and the filling warm. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.

Conclusion

This Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich recipe captures all the iconic flavors of a true cheesesteak, with tender ribeye, sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and melted provolone cheese. The toasted French bread is the perfect vessel, holding everything together while adding a satisfying crunch. This hearty sandwich is perfect for a filling meal and will transport you straight to the heart of Philadelphia with every bite.