Introduction
Craving a classic Philly Cheesesteak but don’t want to break the bank or spend hours in the kitchen? You’ve come to the right place! This guide will show you how to make a delicious, authentic-tasting homemade Philly Cheesesteak sandwich that’s both cheap and easy. We’ll cover everything from ingredient substitutes to streamlining the cooking process, ensuring a satisfying meal without the fuss.
Making Your Homemade Philly Cheesesteak: A Cheap and Easy Guide
Choosing Your Steak
The heart of a Philly Cheesesteak is, of course, the steak. While ribeye is the traditional choice, it can be pricey. Here are some budget-friendly alternatives that work remarkably well:
- Sirloin Steak: Offers a good balance of flavor and affordability.
- Flank Steak: Marinate it for extra tenderness.
- Chuck Steak: Requires longer, slower cooking for optimal tenderness. Consider thinly slicing it and briefly braising it before searing.
Key Tip: Regardless of the cut, partially freezing the steak for about 30 minutes before slicing makes it much easier to achieve those thin, even slices essential for a true cheesesteak experience.
The Cheese Factor: Options and Substitutions
While provolone is often used, here are some affordable and readily available cheese options:
- Provolone: The classic choice. Look for it pre-sliced to save time.
- American Cheese: Melts beautifully and provides that iconic gooeyness.
- Mozzarella: A milder flavor that still offers a great melt.
- Cheese Whiz: A controversial but undeniably authentic option!
Cheese Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combination! A blend of provolone and American cheese can offer the best of both worlds.
Bread Bliss: Choosing the Right Roll
A sturdy roll is crucial for holding all that delicious steak and cheese. Here are some suggestions:
- Hoagie Rolls: The ideal choice, if available.
- Sub Rolls: A good substitute for hoagie rolls.
- Italian Bread: Sliced lengthwise, provides a similar texture and sturdiness.
Bread Tip: Lightly toast the inside of the roll before assembling the sandwich to prevent it from getting soggy.
Onions and Peppers: A Philly Cheesesteak Staple
Caramelized onions and peppers add a layer of flavor and texture that elevates the cheesesteak. Here’s how to prepare them:
- Thinly slice one large onion and one bell pepper (any color).
- Heat a tablespoon of oil (vegetable or olive) in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onions and peppers and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Shortcut Tip: Use frozen pre-sliced onions and peppers to save time on prep!
The Cooking Process: Step-by-Step
- Slice the steak as thinly as possible.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil.
- Add the steak to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add the cooked onions and peppers to the steak.
- Divide the mixture into sections on the skillet (one section per sandwich).
- Place cheese slices over each section of steak.
- Once the cheese is melted, use a spatula to scoop each section into a roll.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Conclusion
With a few smart ingredient choices and streamlined cooking techniques, you can easily create a mouthwatering homemade Philly Cheesesteak sandwich that’s both cheap and delicious. So ditch the expensive takeout and impress your family and friends with this classic American favorite. Enjoy!