Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

The Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that brings all the flavors of a traditional cheesesteak right to your kitchen. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or casual get-togethers, this recipe offers a delightful combination of tender steak, sautéed veggies, and melted provolone cheese. With its easy preparation and rich taste, you’ll find it hard to resist making these sandwiches again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of savory steak, caramelized onions, and melty cheese delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the cheese to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family meal or a party snack, these cheesesteaks are sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or griddle
• Serrated knife
• Spatula
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or griddle: Essential for achieving a nice sear on the steak and evenly cooking the veggies.
• Serrated knife: Perfect for slicing the hoagie rolls without squishing them.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping the steak and transferring it onto the rolls with ease.

Ingredients

For the Steak and Veggies

• 2 pounds Top sirloin steak or Ribeye (trimmed and sliced very thin)
• 4 oz sliced mushrooms
• 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic

For Assembly

• 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil divided
• 8 slices mild provolone cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 4 hoagie rolls (sliced through)
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise

Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons coarse Kosher salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

How to Make Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Begin by placing the steak in the freezer for 30 minutes to achieve a firm texture for slicing into thin strips. Trim excess fat, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

Slice onions and set them aside. Use a serrated knife to carefully split hoagie rolls lengthwise about ¾ of the way through.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter

Mix softened butter and minced garlic together. Spread this garlic butter mixture on the cut sides of the hoagie rolls. Toast them on a griddle or skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Onions

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Sauté onions for 8-10 minutes until slightly caramelized. Transfer them to a bowl and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Steak

Increase heat to medium-high, add remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Once hot, evenly lay thinly sliced steak in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving to achieve a nice sear; then flip and cook on the other side. Add sautéed onions back into the pan and stir together.

Step 6: Assemble Cheese Toppings

Use a spatula to divide meat and onions into 4 portions in the pan. Top each portion with 2 slices of provolone cheese, then turn off heat.

Step 7: Complete Your Sandwiches

Spread a thin layer of mayo on cut sides of toasted hoagie rolls. Place a roll over each portion of meat, onions, and cheese. Use a spatula to flip meat onto roll, completing your Philly cheesesteak. Serve promptly.

Enjoy your Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak with some crispy fries or your favorite dipping sauce!

How to Serve Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

Serving your Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak can elevate this delicious sandwich into a perfect meal. Here are some great suggestions to complement your cheesesteaks.

With Tangy Pickles

• Add some crunchy dill pickles on the side for a tangy contrast that balances the rich flavors of the cheesesteak.

Crispy French Fries

• Serve with hot, crispy French fries seasoned with salt. The texture pairs perfectly with the soft hoagie rolls.

Coleslaw

• A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy, creamy element that complements the savory taste of the cheesesteak.

Potato Chips

• Offer a variety of potato chips alongside your sandwich for an extra crunch and flavor options.

Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens can provide a healthy balance to your flavorful main dish.

How to Perfect Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

To make your Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality meat enhance the overall flavor of your cheesesteak.
• Thinly slice the steak: For optimal texture, ensure your steak is sliced as thin as possible. This allows it to cook quickly and evenly.
• Toast the rolls: Toasting adds a delightful crunch to the hoagie rolls, enhancing each bite of your sandwich.
• Experiment with cheese: While provolone is classic, try adding mozzarella or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Balance flavors: Adjust seasoning according to your taste. Add more garlic or spices if you prefer stronger flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory cheesesteaks and add a colorful touch to the plate.
2. Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings offer a fun texture and a burst of flavor that complements the sandwich well.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob brings a summery vibe and sweetness that balances out rich flavors.
4. Baked Beans: The hearty sweetness of baked beans pairs beautifully with cheesesteaks for a fulfilling meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables can add variety and nutrition to your meal.
6. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad provides a cool, refreshing side that works well alongside warm sandwiches.
7. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables offers color, flavor, and nutrients that enhance any meal.
8. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad is always a hit, providing creaminess that contrasts nicely with the hearty sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making an Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using thick steak slices: Thick slices of steak can lead to uneven cooking. Always slice the steak very thin for the best texture.
• Skipping the garlic butter: Not using garlic butter on your hoagie rolls can result in a bland sandwich. Mixing softened butter with minced garlic adds great flavor.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the onions and peppers too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until they are tender but still retain some crunch.
• Not toasting the rolls: Serving un-toasted rolls can make your cheesesteak soggy. Toast them until golden brown for a perfect crunch.
• Using low-quality cheese: Opting for subpar cheese can ruin the dish. Choose mild provolone for that classic flavor and melt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the cheesesteaks to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

• Freeze in separate containers or wrap tightly in foil for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap cheesesteaks in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak:

How do I get the steak thin enough?

To slice steak thinly, chill it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This firms up the meat, making it easier to cut into thin strips.

Can I use other cheeses for my Philly cheesesteak?

Absolutely! While provolone is traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar to suit your taste.

What can I use instead of hoagie rolls?

If you can’t find hoagie rolls, any soft sandwich bread will work. Just ensure it can hold up against the filling without getting soggy.

How spicy is this Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak?

This recipe is not spicy as written, but you can add jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer some heat!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the steak with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak is a delightful combination of flavors that is sure to please anyone craving comfort food. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings or even switch up the protein. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a tasty meal that brings everyone together!