authentic south philly cheese steak recipe easy weeknight dinner

Introduction

Craving an authentic South Philly cheesesteak but don’t want to spend all night in the kitchen? This easy weeknight cheesesteak recipe brings the iconic flavors of Philadelphia right to your table in under 30 minutes! We’re skipping the fancy steakhouse cuts and focusing on simple techniques and accessible ingredients to deliver a delicious, satisfying, and truly authentic experience. Get ready to experience the taste of Philly without leaving your home!

Authentic South Philly Cheesesteak: The Easy Weeknight Edition

What Makes a Cheesesteak Authentic?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s define what makes a cheesesteak authentically “South Philly.” It’s more than just steak and cheese; it’s about the right combination of:

• Thinly Sliced Steak: Typically ribeye, but we’ll use a more affordable alternative for weeknights.
• Amoroso’s Roll (or a good substitute): The proper roll is crucial for the overall experience. It needs to be soft yet sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
• Cheese: The classic choices are provolone, American, or Cheese Whiz.
• Onions (Optional): Sautéed onions, either diced or thinly sliced, are a common addition.

Ingredients for a Weeknight Cheesesteak Feast

Here’s what you’ll need to make 4 delicious cheesesteaks:

• 1.5 lbs thinly sliced beef (shaved steak or sirloin works great)
• 4 Amoroso’s rolls (or similar hoagie rolls)
• 8 slices of provolone cheese (or American cheese)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Cheese Whiz, hot peppers

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesesteak Perfection

1. Prepare the Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook until softened and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove onions from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, increase the heat to high. Add the shaved steak in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and cook quickly, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. This should only take a few minutes per batch. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Combine and Cheese It: Once all the steak is cooked, return the onions to the skillet. Mix the steak and onions together. Divide the mixture into four portions. Place two slices of provolone (or American) cheese over each portion.
4. Melt the Cheese: Let the cheese melt completely, about 1-2 minutes. You can cover the skillet with a lid to speed up the melting process.
5. Assemble the Cheesesteaks: Using a spatula, carefully lift each cheesesteak portion and place it into a roll.
6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your authentic South Philly cheesesteak with your favorite toppings like hot peppers or more Cheese Whiz!

Tips for the Best Weeknight Cheesesteak

• Thinly Sliced is Key: The thinner the steak, the better it cooks and the more authentic the taste. Ask your butcher to slice it thinly for you, or partially freeze the steak before slicing it yourself.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the steak in batches prevents it from steaming and ensures a nice, browned crust.
• Get Creative with Cheese: While provolone and American are classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar or mozzarella.
• Toast the Rolls (Optional): For extra flavor and texture, lightly toast the inside of the rolls before filling them.

Conclusion

This easy weeknight South Philly cheesesteak recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you can enjoy a taste of Philadelphia any night of the week. So ditch the delivery apps and create your own authentic cheesesteak experience at home!