Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches

A mouthwatering Philadelphia classic, Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches are piled high with thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions and peppers, all smothered in melted cheese and tucked into a soft hoagie roll. It’s a satisfying, savory treat perfect for game day, family dinners, or a satisfying lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Philly flavor: Juicy ribeye (or top round) caramelized with onions and peppers
• Cheesy goodness: Melted provolone or American cheese creates the signature gooey texture
• Quick and easy: Ingredients are simple and prep is speedy—ready in under 30 minutes
• Customizable: Add mushrooms, switch cheese types, or go all in with extra toppings
• Perfect for feeding a crowd: Easy to scale for gatherings or casual dinner parties

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
• Hoagie rolls or sub rolls
• Yellow onion
• Bell peppers (green, red, or both)
• Provolone cheese (or American, Cheez Whiz, etc.)
• Salt and pepper
• Vegetable or canola oil
• Optional: mushrooms, hot peppers, ketchup, mayonnaise

Directions

this recipe

1. Prep the meat: Freeze steak briefly (about 15–20 minutes) to make slicing easier. Slice as thinly as possible across the grain.
2. Sauté veggies: Heat oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Add sliced onions and peppers; season lightly. Cook until softened and lightly caramelized. Transfer to a plate.
3. Cook the steak: Increase heat to high. Add a bit more oil, then lay steak slices in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook quickly, stirring, just until browned—1–2 minutes.
4. Combine: Return onions and peppers to the pan. Stir to combine and heat through.
5. Assemble sandwiches: Place rolls open-faced on a baking sheet. Distribute beef and veggies evenly across rolls. Top each with provolone slices (or drizzle with Cheez Whiz).
6. Melt cheese: Broil in the oven for 1–2 minutes or cover the skillet with a lid until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Slide sandwiches onto plates and serve hot. Offer optional condiments like ketchup or hot peppers.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Makes 4 hearty sandwiches
• Prep time: 10–15 minutes (plus meat chilling time)
• Cook time: 10–15 minutes
• Total time: ~25–30 minutes

Variations

• Mushroom & Onion: Add sautéed mushrooms along with the peppers.
• Cheez Whiz style: Skip provolone—use Cheez Whiz for a classic Philly twist.
• Spicy kick: Stir in sliced hot peppers or jalapeños.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute seitan, mushrooms, or thinly sliced cauliflower steak.
• Cheesy double-down: Layer provolone and American cheese for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fillings (meat + veggies) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave. If rolling sandwiches ahead, heat the meat, fill rolls, and toast briefly under the broiler before serving. Best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

What kind of steak is best?

Ribeye is traditional for its marbling and flavor. Top round or sirloin are leaner but work well when sliced thin.

How do I slice the steak super thin?

Freeze the meat for 15–20 minutes until firm but not rock solid. Use a sharp knife to cut across the grain.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes—cook the filling ahead and refrigerate. Reheat filling and assemble just before serving. Cheese melts best right before eating.

What cheese should I use?

Provolone is classic. For a twist, try American or Cheez Whiz for creaminess.

Can I use a panini press?

Absolutely—press and melt the sandwiches in a panini maker for crisp rolls and melted cheese.

Should I include peppers?

Green bell peppers are standard, but red or roasted peppers bring sweetness and deeper flavor.

Can I make vegetarian Philly cheesesteak?

Yes—swap steak for seitan, portobello mushrooms, or cauliflower steak, and follow the same method.

What seasonings are best?

Salt and pepper suffice. For extra flavor, add garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

How do I prevent soggy sandwiches?

Toast the rolls lightly before assembling and serve immediately after melting cheese.

Can I freeze leftovers?

You can freeze the filling in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving in fresh rolls.

Conclusion

Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches bring together tender steak, melty cheese, and savory veggies in a handheld, satisfying package. Whether you’re lunching solo, feeding friends, or enjoying game day, these iconic sandwiches deliver bold flavor and comforting goodness in every bite.

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