Authentic Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches Recipe

Can you really make Philadelphia’s famous sandwich at home? Learn the secrets to making authentic Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches. You’ll find all the ingredients you need in your kitchen.
This guide will teach you how to slice ribeye steak perfectly. You’ll also learn about the right bread to use. This ensures your homemade Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches taste just like the real thing. Get ready to make a delicious dish that’s a hit in Philadelphia.
Key Takeaways
- Authentic Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches start with thinly sliced ribeye steak.
- Choosing the right bread is crucial for that soft, yet sturdy texture.
- Sauté onions and peppers to add depth of flavor, though peppers are optional.
- Provolone and Cheez Whiz are the traditional cheese choices.
- Perfect assembly involves precise mixing techniques and heat control.
Introduction to Philly Cheesesteaks
The Philly Cheesesteak is a beloved American dish. It’s known for its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a crusty roll make it special. This sandwich has become a classic in American cuisine.
Origin of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly Cheesesteak’s story began in the 1930s in South Philadelphia. Brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri created the first versions. These sandwiches had steak and onions, but no cheese.
By the 1950s, cheese was added, making the sandwich even better. People now choose from provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese.

Why It’s a Classic American Dish
The Philly Cheesesteak is a classic for many reasons. Its simple yet tasty mix of ingredients is a true American comfort food. The “wit or witout” question about onions adds to its charm.
The use of ribeye steak makes every bite rich and juicy. This steak is known for its fat content and texture. The Philly Cheesesteak’s appeal comes from its versatility and the joy it brings to those who eat it.
The Philly Cheesesteak’s preparation is unique. Freezing the steak helps slice it thinly. Cooking the onions longer makes them caramelized. Toasting the roll keeps it firm. These steps ensure the sandwich tastes authentic and classic.
Preparing the Ingredients
Starting an easy Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich recipe means focusing on quality ingredients. We’ll cover the key items: ribeye steak, onions, peppers, and bread.
Slicing the Ribeye Steak
The ribeye steak is crucial for a great Philly Cheesesteak. It’s known for its marbling, which adds tenderness and flavor. First, freeze the steak for 30 to 40 minutes.
This makes slicing it thin easier. Thin slices cook quickly and evenly, key for a tasty sandwich.
Chopping Onions and Peppers
Onions and peppers are essential for a Philly Cheesesteak. Onions should be chopped to caramelize in 12 to 15 minutes. Peppers add flavor and color, chopped to match the onions.
It takes patience to let the veggies caramelize. This deepens their flavor.
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread is the sandwich’s foundation. Amoroso Rolls are the classic choice, with a perfect crust and soft inside. If you can’t find Amoroso, a high-quality hoagie roll works well.
Split and toast the rolls with butter or mayonnaise. This adds richness and crunch.

Thoughtful preparation of each ingredient is key. It sets the stage for a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich.
Cooking the Steak
To make the best Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches, cooking the steak right is key. Use high heat and quick cooking to keep the meat juicy. This ensures the steak tastes amazing, just like Philly cheesesteaks should.
How to Sear the Steak Perfectly
Start by freezing the ribeye steak for 15 to 20 minutes. This makes it easier to slice thinly. Slice the steak to ¼-inch or thinner for even cooking and tenderness.
Heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a skillet over high heat until it’s almost smoking. Sear the steak slices for about 5 minutes until they’re browned to medium doneness. Flip them often to avoid overcooking and get a perfect sear on both sides.
Seasoning Tips for Flavor
Seasoning the steak right can make your homemade Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches even better. Stick to tradition with just salt and pepper. This lets the steak’s natural flavors shine.
You can add garlic powder or smoked paprika if you like. But remember, a little goes a long way for the best taste.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ribeye Steak | 1.5 pounds |
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons (divided) |
Salt | To taste |
Pepper | To taste |
Optional Seasonings | Garlic powder, smoked paprika |
By following these steps, you’ll get great at cooking the steak. Your homemade Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches will be incredibly delicious.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Getting the perfect sauté is key for a real Philly cheesesteak. It adds depth and brings out the sweetness of the ingredients. We’ll cover how to caramelize onions and add peppers to your Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich recipe.
Perfect Caramelization of Onions
For perfect caramelized onions, patience is the key. Start by slicing a large yellow onion thinly, which costs about $0.42. Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil, priced at $0.08, in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and 1 tablespoon of salt, stirring now and then.
Cook the onions slowly until they turn golden brown and sweet, which takes 20-30 minutes. This slow cooking caramelizes the onions’ natural sugars, making them taste amazing. This step is crucial for the authentic Philly Cheesesteak taste.
Adding Peppers for Optional Flavor
Adding green bell peppers can make your sandwich more complex. They cost $0.89 each. Slice the peppers thinly and add them to the skillet with the onions when they start to soften. This blends the flavors well.
For the best taste, sauté the green bell peppers until they’re just tender. Keep them vibrant and slightly crunchy. This step is optional but adds a rich flavor to your Philly Cheesesteak.
It’s important to balance the sautéing. This ensures all ingredients work well together without overpowering the steak. By mastering these techniques, you’re getting closer to making a perfect Philly cheesesteak at home.
Combining Steak and Vegetables
When you mix steak and vegetables on the cooking surface, the flavors of your Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches come alive. This step is all about controlling the heat and mixing right to make sure everything blends well.
Mixing Techniques for Optimal Flavor
To get the best flavor, spread the vegetables and steak evenly on the griddle or skillet. Use a spatula to mix the cooked ribeye with the caramelized onions and peppers. This way, every bite has a perfect mix of savory beef and sweet veggies.
Try to mix the ingredients quickly to keep them from getting soggy. This is a key part of the Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich step by step guide.
Heat Control for Best Results
Keeping the right temperature is crucial to avoid overcooking. Your griddle should be between 350° and 375°F. This heat keeps the filling warm and juicy.
Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning, which can happen when everything is in one pan. This careful heat control is essential for a great Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich step by step guide.
In this step of how to make Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches, cooking takes less than 30 minutes. The goal is to have a warm, flavorful filling ready for cheese in the next step.
Melting the Cheese
For a true classic Philly Cheesesteak, sharp Provolone or creamy Cheez Whiz is key. This step is vital for that rich, gooey texture everyone loves.
Choosing Between Provolone and Cheez Whiz
Provolone brings a sharp, tangy taste that complements the steak and veggies. Cheez Whiz, on the other hand, adds a creamy richness. Both are beloved and can change your sandwich’s flavor.
Techniques for Even Melting
To get even melted cheese, spread the slices or pour the Cheez Whiz over the hot steak and veggies. Let the heat from the ingredients melt the cheese evenly. This way, every bite is cheesy and delicious.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Making the best Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches starts with how you put them together. This Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich step by step guide will help you get that perfect taste every time.
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
- Prepare the bread: Split the hoagie rolls and toast them lightly on medium heat for about 5 to 8 minutes until they are nicely browned.
- Layer the steak: Take 1½ pounds of well-browned sirloin or ribeye steak, cooked to perfection in 2-3 minutes per batch, and generously layer it on the bottom half of the bread.
- Add the veggies: Sauté onions and a mix of green, yellow, and red bell peppers in 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil for 10 to 12 minutes until softened and golden, then spoon it onto the steak.
- Layer the cheese: Place 4 slices of American cheese and 4 slices of provolone cheese evenly over the hot steak and veggies. Let them melt into gooey perfection.
- Close the sandwich: Once the cheese is melted, close the hoagie roll to hold all the delicious ingredients inside.
Tips for Perfect Presentation
For a great look, cut the sandwich diagonally. It’s not only pretty but also easier to eat. Make sure each sandwich has a lot of roast beef and the right mix of cheese, like Provolone or Swiss, for the best taste.
Remember, it takes about 45 minutes to prepare, plus 35 minutes to chill the steak before slicing. Follow these steps to make the best Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches. You’ll impress everyone with your cooking skills.
Serving Suggestions
When you serve your Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich, think about what goes well with it. The right side dish or drink can make your meal better. Here are some tasty and thoughtful ideas to try.
Ideal Pairings with Philly Cheesesteak
- French Fries: The classic choice. You can have regular fries, cheese fries, or even sweet potato fries for a healthier option.
- Onion Rings: Beer-infused batter makes them crispy and adds a special touch.
- Salads: Try a roasted potato arugula salad for a light option. Or go for a classic coleslaw with your favorite dressing.
How to Elevate Your Meal Experience
- Craft Beer: The right beer can make your meal even better. A light ale or a bold stout pairs well.
- Gourmet Veggies: Grilled vegetable skewers with bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms add a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Options: Roasted buffalo cauliflower with blue cheese crumbles or creamy jalapeño corn with crispy bacon adds a kick.
Follow this Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich step by step guide to make the perfect meal. Make sure your sides and drinks match the cheesesteak’s rich flavors. Creating the ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is not just about the sandwich. It’s about the whole experience.
Storing Leftovers
When you’ve made delicious homemade Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches, it’s important to store leftovers right. This way, your hard work won’t go to waste. Storing and reheating correctly keeps the taste and texture just right, making your next meal as good as the first.
Best Practices for Keeping the Sandwiches Fresh
To keep your Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches fresh, start by wrapping leftovers tightly in aluminum foil. If you’re storing just the fillings, use airtight containers. Put them in the fridge and eat them within 1-2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Reheating Techniques
To reheat refrigerated sandwiches, preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the foil and heat for 10 to 15 minutes. If they’re frozen, heat for 17-20 minutes.
For just the fillings, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat. Or, use the microwave carefully to avoid overcooking. Then, put the warm fillings back into a fresh hoagie roll for the best taste.
Variations of the Classic Recipe
The traditional Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich recipe is a hit. It combines thinly sliced sautéed beef and cheese. But, many like to try new things to make it even better. They add unique ingredients and explore different twists.
Adding Unique Ingredients
The classic recipe often uses provolone or American cheese. But, adding mushrooms, onions, and peppers can make it special. Mushrooms add a rich flavor, and jalapenos or hot sauce give it a spicy kick.
Trying different cheeses, like pepper jack or gouda, can also bring new tastes. It’s all about finding what you like best.
- Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese: This mix of gooey mac and cheese with steak is a comfort food dream.
- Philly Cheese Steak Pizza: It’s a tasty blend of the classic fillings on a crispy pizza crust.
- Cheesesteak Poutine: This Canadian-inspired dish combines crispy fries, savory steak, cheese, and gravy.
- Philly Cheesesteak Nachos: A perfect snack for game days, with tortilla chips, melted cheese, steak, and peppers.
- Crescent Braided Cheese Steak: This dish has a beautiful presentation, with flaky dough wrapped around the filling.
Regional Twists on the Philly Cheesesteak
Across the U.S., cooks add local flavors to the Philly Cheesesteak. They might add spicy Tex-Mex or seafood from New England. These twists offer a fresh take while keeping the classic taste.
Variation | Unique Ingredient |
---|---|
Jalapeno Popper Philly Cheesesteak Sliders | Jalapeno and cream cheese |
Philly Cheese Steak Chili in a Bread Bowl | Hearty chili and bread bowl |
Mini Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaves | Ground beef and meatloaf seasoning |
Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers | Bell peppers as a substitute for bread |
Philly Cheesesteak Empanadas (Air-Fried) | Empanada dough and air-frying technique |
March 24th is National Philadelphia Cheesesteak Day. It’s a great time to try these variations and find new favorites. For those watching their carbs, Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are a good choice. Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes offer a unique twist for comfort food lovers.
Whether you’re looking for the best Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches or just want to try something new, there’s something for everyone. These variations bring a fresh perspective to the classic recipe.
Final Thoughts on Making the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak
Making an authentic Philly Cheesesteak recipe is fun and rewarding. It only takes 33 minutes to prepare and cook. You can make a taste of Philadelphia in your kitchen.
Follow the steps to make a great sandwich. Slice the steak and prep the veggies. Then, put it all together with your favorite cheese.
Recap of Key Steps
For a classic Philly Cheesesteak recipe, use top-notch ingredients. Slice 1 pound of ribeye steak thinly. Cook it with 1 cup of yellow onions and 1 sliced red bell pepper in 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Season with 1 teaspoon of Lawry’s season salt for the perfect taste. Add Provolone cheese and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 6-7 minutes. This makes the flavors blend well. Plus, it’s affordable at just $14.
Encourage Home Cooks to Try It
Home cooks, it’s time to try this American classic. The steps are easy: prepare well, cook carefully, and assemble with care. Feel free to try different cheeses like Pepperjack or Havarti.
It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. Enjoy the homemade Philly Cheesesteak. Start making this iconic sandwich in your kitchen today!
FAQ
What is the most authentic way to slice ribeye steak for Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches?
Shaving the ribeye steak thinly is the most authentic way. It makes the meat easy to eat and cooks fast. This way, it keeps its juices and flavor.
What are the traditional cheese options for a classic Philly Cheesesteak?
Classic Philly Cheesesteaks use sharp Provolone, creamy Cheez Whiz, and American cheese. Each cheese adds a unique taste that goes well with the steak and veggies.
Should onions be cooked with or without peppers in an authentic Philly Cheesesteak?
Onions can be cooked with or without peppers. Onions are key, but peppers add flavor and crunch. It’s up to you.
What is the best type of bread for making homemade Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches?
Use an Amoroso Roll for the real deal. If you can’t find one, a good hoagie roll works too.
How do you achieve perfect caramelization of onions for Philly Cheesesteaks?
Cook onions slowly over medium heat until they’re golden and sweet. It takes 20 to 30 minutes. But it’s worth it for that rich flavor.
Are there any specific seasoning tips for the ribeye steak?
Season the ribeye steak lightly with salt and pepper. This lets the steak’s natural flavors shine, with a hint of seasoning.
What are some techniques for melting cheese evenly on a Philly Cheesesteak?
Place cheese over hot steak and veggies. The heat will melt it smoothly. Covering the pan briefly helps too.
What are some ideal sides to serve with Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches?
Serve with crispy fries or a light salad. These sides complement the sandwich without overpowering it.
How should leftover Philly Cheesesteak filling be stored and reheated?
Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Assemble in a fresh hoagie for the best taste.
What are some unique variations of the classic Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich?
Try adding mushrooms, different cheeses, or hot sauce for a twist. Local ingredients or cooking styles can also add a personal touch.