Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak (2024)

KrystelJanuary 17, 2024

DifficultyEasy

Servings4

The Secret to Making the Best Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak

Craving a mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak? Look no further! You don't have to hop on a plane to Philadelphia to savor the iconic flavors of this delectable sandwich. In this article, we'll let you in on the secret to making the best easy classic Philly cheesesteak right in your own kitchen. Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure as we guide you through each step, from selecting the freshest ingredients to achieving the perfect combination of tender steak, sautéed bell peppers, and savory mushrooms. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or an aspiring chef, this foolproof recipe will have you drooling in anticipation. So, tie on your apron and get ready to indulge in a truly satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Gathering the Ingredients

First things first, before you can dive into creating your mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak, you'll need to gather all the necessary ingredients. It's important to take the time to select the freshest and highest quality items to ensure the best possible outcome for your sandwich.

The star of the show is, of course, the steak. Look for a cut that is well-marbled, such as ribeye or top round, as this will provide the perfect balance between tenderness and flavor. If possible, try to find thinly sliced steak at your local butcher or grocery store to save yourself some prep time. However, if you can only find thicker cuts, fear not – just make sure to slice the steak as thin as possible before cooking.

Next up are the bell peppers and mushrooms, which add a burst of color and earthy savoriness to the cheesesteak. Opt for vibrant and firm bell peppers in various colors to not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to the overall flavor profile. As for the mushrooms, go for options like cremini or portobello for their rich and robust taste.

To achieve that irresistible cheesy goodness, you'll need a generous amount of provolone or American cheese. While traditionalists might argue for the use of Cheez Whiz, both provolone and American cheese provide a creamy and melty texture that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Choose a high-quality brand and get ready to experience cheese that will make your taste buds sing.

Lastly, don't forget about the bread – it's the foundation that holds everything together. Authentic Philly cheesesteaks are typically served on long rolls, known as hoagie or steak rolls. Look for rolls that are soft on the inside with a slightly crusty exterior for that perfect textural contrast. If you can't find specifically labeled "hoagie rolls," any long, soft roll will do just fine.

Preparing the Steak

To start the process of creating the best easy classic Philly cheesesteak, we need to give proper attention to preparing the steak. This step is crucial in ensuring that the meat is tender and bursting with flavor, making every bite a delectable experience.

Begin by selecting high-quality beef that is ideally thinly sliced. While you can ask your local butcher to slice it for you, you can also achieve thin slices by placing the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes until it's firm but not frozen solid. This slight firmness will allow you to slice through the meat with ease, resulting in thin, delicate pieces.

Once you have your thinly sliced beef, it's time to infuse it with even more flavor. A classic marinade for Philly cheesesteaks consists of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. In a shallow dish or resealable bag, combine these ingredients and add your thinly sliced beef, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes, but for even more intense flavor, consider marinating it for up to two hours.

While the beef marinates, take this time to prepare any additional toppings or condiments you desire for your cheesesteak. Thinly slice onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, as these will be sautéed later, bringing another layer of flavor and texture to your sandwich.

Now that the steak is marinated and the toppings are prepped, we're ready to move on to the next step – sautéing the peppers and mushrooms.

Sautéing the Peppers and Mushrooms

Now that the steak is marinated and the toppings are prepped, we're ready to move on to the next step – sautéing the peppers and mushrooms.

To add another layer of flavor and texture to your classic Philly cheesesteak, we'll start by thinly slicing some onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. These colorful and savory vegetables will create a delicious medley that perfectly complements the juicy steak.

In a hot skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil and toss in the sliced onions. Let them sizzle and soften for a few minutes until they start to turn translucent and lightly browned around the edges. This will help bring out their natural sweetness and add a subtle caramelized flavor to the overall dish.

Next, add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Watch as their vibrant colors brighten up the pan and their crispness begins to soften. Stir them occasionally, allowing them to cook for about five minutes or until they are tender-crisp. The peppers should still retain a slight crunch, providing a satisfying contrast to the succulent meat and bread.

Now, it's time to introduce the sliced mushrooms to the mix. Spread them out evenly across the skillet and let them cook alongside the peppers and onions. As the mushrooms heat up, they release their moisture, which will create a delightful aroma in your kitchen. Cook them for about four to five minutes, or until they have reduced in size and turn golden brown. This will enhance their earthy flavor and add a delightful umami element to your cheesesteak.

Assembling and Toasting the Cheesesteak

Assembling and Toasting the Cheesesteak is the final step to bringing all these delectable components together into a sandwich that will satisfy your cravings and impress your taste buds. Now that you have your tender, flavorful steak, your sautéed peppers and mushrooms, and your melted, gooey cheese, it's time to turn them into the ultimate Philly cheesesteak experience.

To assemble your cheesesteak

start by placing a generous portion of the cooked steak onto the bottom half of a fresh hoagie roll. Spread it out evenly to ensure that every bite is packed with meaty goodness. Next, add a layer of the sautéed peppers and mushrooms, scattering them over the steak. This combination of flavors and textures will enhance the overall taste and take your cheesesteak to the next level.

Once you've assembled the meat, peppers, and mushrooms, it's time to add the final touch – the melted cheese. Choose your favorite variety, such as provolone or American cheese, and place a few slices on top of the peppers and mushrooms. This will allow the cheese to melt and meld all the flavors together, creating a rich and creamy element that ties everything together.

Now that your cheesesteak is assembled, it's time to toast it to perfection. Preheat your oven to a broil setting and place the cheesesteak on a baking sheet. Slide it under the broiler for a few minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. The heat from the broiler will help melt the cheese, while also toasting the outer edges of the roll, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.

Once the cheese is melted and the roll is toasted to your desired level of crispness, carefully remove your cheesesteak from the oven. The aroma of the sizzling steak, caramelized vegetables, and melted cheese will make your mouth water, eagerly anticipating the first savory bite. But before you dig in, let your cheesesteak cool for a minute or two to avoid burning your tongue.

Serving and Enjoying Your Creation

Once the cheese is melted and the roll is toasted to your desired level of crispness, carefully remove your cheesesteak from the oven. The aroma of the sizzling steak, caramelized vegetables, and melted cheese will make your mouth water, eagerly anticipating the first savory bite. But before you dig in, let your cheesesteak cool for a minute or two to avoid burning your tongue.

With your assembled and toasted cheesesteak in hand, you're now ready to move on to the final step: serving and enjoying your creation.

The beauty of the classic Philly cheesesteak lies not only in its delicious flavors but also in its versatility. You have the freedom to personalize your creation with condiments and toppings that suit your taste buds. Traditional options like ketchup, mayonnaise, or mustard are always crowd pleasers, adding a tangy zest to the rich flavors of the steak and cheese. For those looking to elevate the experience, you might consider experimenting with unique flavors such as barbecue sauce, horseradish, or even a drizzle of Sriracha.

When it comes to enjoying your cheesesteak, there's no right or wrong way. Some prefer to savor each component separately, letting the flavors mingle on their palates. Others enjoy taking a big, hearty bite, relishing the explosion of flavors all at once. Whether you're a meticulous eater or a delightful mess-maker, the important thing is to savor every mouthful and appreciate the culinary masterpiece you've created.

Of course, no experience is complete without the perfect side dish. Classic choices like crispy French fries or a side salad complement the cheesesteak's richness, providing a balanced and satisfying meal. For those looking to indulge, why not pair your cheesesteak with some onion rings, sweet potato fries, or even a creamy coleslaw? The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to get creative and satisfy your cravings.

As you sit down to enjoy your homemade Philly cheesesteak, take a moment to appreciate the effort and love you've poured into this dish. Food has a unique way of bringing people together and creating moments of joy. Whether you're sharing this meal with family, friends, or enjoying it solo, relish the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch.

With your cheesesteak conquered and your taste buds content, you've unlocked the secret to making the best easy classic Philly cheesesteak. But before we part ways, let's dig deeper into the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic sandwich.

In conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the art of creating the best easy classic Philly cheesesteak is within your reach. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds with every bite. From gathering the ingredients to toasting the cheesesteak to perfection, this foolproof guide has you covered. As you savor the flavors of the sautéed peppers and mushrooms, you'll understand why this iconic dish is a favorite among many. Now, it's your turn to take on the challenge and unleash your culinary skills. Don't keep this secret to yourself—share this recipe with loved ones and spread the joy of a truly delicious cheesesteak. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let your inner chef shine. Remember, the secret is out and the reward is waiting. Happy cooking!