Philly Cheesesteak

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the Philly Cheesesteak—a satisfying, mouthwatering sandwich packed with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and savory vegetables. Originating from Philadelphia, this classic American dish has been beloved for decades, and for good reason. Whether you’re a lifelong cheesesteak enthusiast or a first-time taster, this recipe offers the perfect balance of tradition and creativity. By adding a bold seasoning blend and customizable ingredients, this version elevates the Philly cheesesteak to new levels of flavor and satisfaction. Ready in just under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into thin 2-inch strips
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, julienned
• 3 ounces Swiss cheese, thinly sliced (can substitute with provolone)
• 4 hoagie rolls, split lengthwise

Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients.
2. Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, marjoram, and basil.
3. Season Steak: Place steak strips in a large bowl, sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the meat, and stir to coat evenly.
4. Cook Steak: Heat 1 ½ tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook until it reaches your desired doneness. Once done, transfer the steak to a plate.
5. Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Cook the sliced onion and bell pepper until tender and caramelized.
6. Assemble Sandwiches: Preheat your oven to the broiler setting. Place the cooked steak on the bottom halves of the hoagie rolls, top with the cooked onions and bell peppers, and layer with sliced cheese.
7. Melt Cheese: Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil in the oven until the cheese is melted.
8. Serve: Cover with the top halves of the hoagie rolls and serve immediately.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 641
• Fat: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 717mg

Additional Tips

• Toasting the hoagie rolls can add extra texture.
• You can substitute Swiss cheese with provolone or add more cheese for a creamier flavor.
• Add mushrooms for extra flavor.
• The steak can be marinated overnight for added tenderness.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Substitutes:
  The traditional Philly cheesesteak is often made with provolone or American cheese. Some purists prefer Cheez Whiz for a more authentic experience. Experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences.
• Additional Ingredients:
  Feel free to add mushrooms or even jalapeños for an extra kick. Some variations also include red or yellow bell peppers for a splash of color and sweetness.
• Marinade Option:
  For an even more tender steak, you can marinate the beef in olive oil and seasonings overnight. This allows the flavors to fully infuse into the meat.

Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak

• Use Thinly Sliced Meat:
  The thinner the steak, the more tender and flavorful the sandwich will be. You can ask your butcher to slice it thinly or use a sharp knife to cut it yourself.
• Toast the Hoagie Roll:
  Lightly toasting the roll adds a nice texture contrast to the soft meat and melted cheese.
• Make Ahead Option:
  You can prepare the steak and vegetable mixture in advance and reheat when ready to serve. Simply broil the sandwiches with cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Philly cheesesteaks are perfect when served with:

• Fries or potato wedges
• Coleslaw or a light salad
• Pickles for added crunch and acidity
• A cold drink like iced tea or beer

Philly Cheesesteak Origins

The Philly cheesesteak was created in the 1930s by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in Philadelphia. He reportedly threw beef on the grill one day, and the sandwich became so popular that he opened a restaurant called Pat’s King of Steaks. Today, Pat’s and its rival, Geno’s Steaks, remain two of the most famous cheesesteak spots in the city.

A Classic American Sandwich with a Twist

The Philly Cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich; it’s a cultural icon that traces its roots to the streets of Philadelphia. With its rich history, this dish has evolved into a beloved staple that embodies both flavor and comfort. This particular recipe brings the classic elements of a Philly cheesesteak—thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, and melted cheese—together with a flavorful twist using a seasoned sirloin and a blend of herbs and spices. Whether you’re a purist or a culinary adventurer, this recipe is designed to satisfy your craving for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Background of the Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly Cheesesteak was first created in the early 1930s by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in Philadelphia. Legend has it that Pat wanted something different for lunch one day, so he threw some beef on his grill, put it on an Italian roll, and the rest is history. Soon after, cab drivers and locals flocked to his stand, demanding the new sandwich. Over time, the cheesesteak became synonymous with Philadelphia’s food scene, and even today, visitors flock to the city to sample the famous dish from Pat’s and its rival, Geno’s Steaks.

The classic version of the cheesesteak features thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese (often provolone, American, or Cheez Whiz), and sautéed onions, all stuffed into a hoagie roll. This recipe takes inspiration from that tradition while adding some flavorful enhancements like a well-rounded seasoning mix, green bell peppers, and the option to experiment with different cheeses.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

1. Enhanced Flavor Profile: Unlike the traditional cheesesteak that uses just salt and pepper, this recipe introduces a flavorful blend of herbs and spices—paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, marjoram, and basil. These additions elevate the taste of the sirloin, creating a bold and savory flavor with every bite. The caramelized onions and bell peppers further enhance the dish, adding sweetness and texture.
2. Customizable Cheese Options: While the recipe suggests using Swiss cheese, you can easily substitute it with provolone, American cheese, or even Cheez Whiz, depending on your preference. This flexibility allows you to recreate the authentic Philly experience or tailor the sandwich to your taste.
3. Tender and Juicy Steak: Using sirloin steak ensures the meat is tender and flavorful, but the key is the thin slices. This recipe provides tips on how to slice the beef thinly and season it perfectly, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat fully. For an even juicier bite, you can marinate the steak overnight.
4. Easy to Prepare:
   With simple ingredients and a few quick steps, this recipe is perfect for home cooks at all skill levels. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or for a game day snack, the Philly cheesesteak is quick to assemble and sure to please a crowd.
5. A Balance of Comfort and Nutrition:
   The combination of protein from the steak, fiber from the vegetables, and calcium from the cheese makes this a well-rounded meal. Plus, you can boost the nutritional content by adding mushrooms or swapping the hoagie roll for a whole grain option.

The Benefits of Making This Recipe

1. Comfort Food Appeal: There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a warm, cheesy, and hearty sandwich. The Philly cheesesteak embodies everything you crave in comfort food—rich flavors, satisfying textures, and a bit of indulgence with the melted cheese. Whether you’re serving this at a family gathering or treating yourself, this sandwich hits the spot.
2. Versatile and Customizable: One of the standout features of this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you like more cheese, extra vegetables, or prefer a spicier kick. This recipe serves as a solid foundation that allows you to create your version of the classic cheesesteak.
3. Quick and Convenient: Despite its rich flavors, this recipe is quick to prepare and doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are accessible, and the directions are simple enough that even a beginner cook can master the art of making a Philly cheesesteak in no time.
4. A Hit at Gatherings:
   Philly cheesesteaks are ideal for casual get-togethers, parties, and game-day celebrations. They’re easy to make in bulk and are guaranteed to impress your guests. Simply prepare the steak and vegetables in advance, and assemble and broil the sandwiches just before serving.

Conclusion:

The Philly Cheesesteak isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a culinary experience that has stood the test of time. This recipe takes the beloved flavors of the classic cheesesteak and adds a modern twist with a flavorful seasoning mix, juicy sirloin, and customizable cheese options. Whether you stick to tradition with provolone or try something new like Swiss or pepper jack, this sandwich delivers satisfaction in every bite.

As you enjoy the savory combination of tender steak, caramelized onions, and melted cheese, you’ll understand why the Philly cheesesteak has become a favorite in homes and restaurants across the country. It’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for casual meals, game-day feasts, or a special treat. The best part? You don’t need to travel to Philadelphia to enjoy the iconic flavors—you can recreate this delicious sandwich right in your kitchen.