The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that has become a staple of American comfort food, especially in Philadelphia where it originated. Known for its tender, thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and crispy yet soft hoagie rolls, this sandwich is a simple yet delicious indulgence. Whether you like it with onions, peppers, or just the basic components, the Philly cheesesteak is a classic that never goes out of style.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced against the grain (freeze the steak for about 30 minutes before slicing to make it easier)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (optional), thinly sliced
- 4 hoagie rolls, soft and slightly toasted (Amoroso rolls are authentic, but any soft, long roll will work)
- Cheese: 8 oz provolone cheese, or if you prefer the classic, American cheese works great
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the steak: If not already done, freeze the ribeye steak for about 30 minutes. This makes it much easier to slice thinly. Afterward, slice it as thin as possible against the grain.
- Cook the vegetables: Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until the onions are soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the steak: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary, and increase the heat to high. Add the thinly sliced steak to the pan in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the steak cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes to get a nice sear, then stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the steak is browned but still tender.
- Combine steak and veggies: Once the steak is cooked, return the caramelized onions and peppers to the skillet. Stir everything together for about 1-2 minutes, so the flavors meld together.
- Melt the cheese: Divide the steak and veggie mixture into portions the size of your hoagie rolls. Lay slices of cheese (provolone or American) over the mixture, then cover the skillet with a lid for a couple of minutes to melt the cheese.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place the cheesy steak mixture into the toasted hoagie rolls. Serve immediately! Serving Tips:
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a few dashes of hot sauce or a smear of mayonnaise.
- Some variations include adding mushrooms or switching up the cheese, like Cheez Whiz for the ultimate authentic Philly experience.
Enjoy your homemade Philly cheesesteak! It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a casual get-together.
