How Do You Make a Philly Cheesesteak?
The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved sandwich originating from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and its iconic status has been maintained over the decades. With a simple combination of sliced beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and melted cheese, the Philly cheesesteak is a favorite among foodies and non-foodies alike. In this article, we will guide you on how to make the perfect Philly cheesesteak.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 lb ribeye or top round steak (thinly sliced)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 large bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 8 slices white American cheese or provolone cheese (thinner slices)
- 4 hoagie rolls (freshly baked)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional: lettuce, tomatoes, hot sauce, mayonnaise
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: In a hot skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For a Philly cheesesteak, medium-rare or medium is ideal. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a plate and let it rest.
- Soften the Veggies: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary, then sauté the onions and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften. Use a spatula to stir frequently to prevent burning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Cheesesteak: Place a portion of the sliced beef on each hoagie roll, followed by some sautéed onions and bell peppers. Add 4-6 slices of white American cheese or provolone cheese on top.
- Melting the Cheese: Use the spatula to carefully fold the roll in half, allowing the cheese to melt and combine with the beef and vegetables. You can also place the rolls under a broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese further, but be cautious not to burn.
- Add Extras (Optional): Now’s the time to add your favorite Philly cheesesteak toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, hot sauce, or mayonnaise.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
- Choose the Right Cheese: White American or provolone cheese are traditional Philly cheesesteak cheeses. If you want to get adventurous, you can experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack.
- Thinly Sliced Beef: Using thinly sliced beef allows for even cooking and easy shredding or slicing when serving.
- Skillet Temperature Control: Make sure to keep the skillet temperature at the right level (medium-high heat). This will prevent the beef from cooking too quickly and help achieve that perfect char.
- Fresh and Freshly Baked: Use fresh ingredients and freshly baked hoagie rolls for the best results. Homemade or artisanal rolls will elevate your Philly cheesesteak to the next level.
- Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of garlic powder or dried oregano to the vegetables for added depth of flavor.
The Classic Philly Cheesesteak | Cheese | Beef Type | Special Toppings |
---|---|---|---|
White American | Thinly Sliced Ribeye | Mushrooms, Provolone Cheese | |
Provolone Cheese | Thinly Sliced Top Round | Mayonnaise, Lettuce |
In conclusion, making a Philly cheesesteak requires attention to detail, high-quality ingredients, and some patience. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a masterpiece that’ll satisfy any cheesesteak cravings. Happy cooking!
Ready to Level Up Your Cooking? Watch This Now!
Explore these recipes next for even more delicious inspiration!