homemade philly cheese steak sandwich guide easy weeknight dinner

Introduction

Craving a delicious and satisfying Philly Cheesesteak but don’t want to break the bank or leave the house? Look no further! This guide provides a simple, step-by-step method to create an authentic-tasting Philly Cheesesteak right in your own kitchen. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, this recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and minimal effort, ensuring a flavorful and memorable meal.

We’ll cover everything from selecting the right steak and bread to perfecting the cheese and toppings. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound Cheesesteak skills!

Main Sections

Choosing Your Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the overall taste of your Philly Cheesesteak. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye steak is the traditional choice, offering excellent flavor and tenderness. However, sirloin or even shaved steak from your local grocery store can work well, especially for convenience. Aim for about 1/4 to 1/3 pound of steak per sandwich.
• Bread: A good hoagie roll is crucial. Look for a soft, slightly chewy roll that can hold the fillings without falling apart. Amoroso’s rolls are a popular choice for authenticity, but any good-quality hoagie or sub roll will do.
• Cheese: Provolone cheese is the classic choice for a Philly Cheesesteak. White American cheese is another popular option, known for its melty texture. You can even use a cheese wiz for a truly authentic (and some might say decadent) experience.
• Onions: Thinly sliced sweet onions are a must. Caramelizing them adds a depth of flavor that elevates the sandwich.
• Peppers (Optional): Bell peppers, particularly green peppers, are a common addition. Slice them thinly and cook them along with the onions.
• Oil: Vegetable oil or canola oil are good choices for cooking.
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are all you need to season the steak and vegetables.

Preparing the Steak and Vegetables

This is where the magic happens! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked steak and flavorful vegetables:

1. Slice the steak: If your steak isn’t already thinly sliced, partially freeze it for about 30 minutes to make slicing easier. Use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain into very thin strips.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice the onions and bell peppers (if using).
3. Cook the vegetables: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and cook the onions and peppers until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the steak: Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the steak in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the steak is browned and cooked through.
5. Combine and chop: Push the steak together in the skillet and use a spatula to chop it into smaller pieces. Mix in the cooked onions and peppers.

Assembling Your Philly Cheesesteak

The final step is putting it all together for a mouthwatering Cheesesteak!

1. Add the cheese: Divide the steak and vegetable mixture into portions for each sandwich. Place slices of provolone or American cheese over the steak mixture.
2. Melt the cheese: Allow the cheese to melt slightly, covering the pan if necessary to speed up the process. You can also place the skillet under a broiler for a minute or two, being careful not to burn the cheese.
3. Load the rolls: Using a spatula, carefully scoop up the steak and cheese mixture and load it into the hoagie roll.
4. Serve immediately: Enjoy your homemade Philly Cheesesteak while it’s hot and gooey!

Variations and Toppings

Want to customize your Cheesesteak? Here are a few ideas:

• Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms along with the onions and peppers.
• Hot peppers: Add sliced pickled hot peppers for a spicy kick.
• Pizza sauce: For a “Pizza Steak,” add a spoonful of pizza sauce to the filling.
• Lettuce and tomato: While not traditional, some people enjoy adding shredded lettuce and sliced tomato.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your own delicious and authentic-tasting Philly Cheesesteak. This easy weeknight dinner is sure to become a family favorite. With a few simple ingredients and these straightforward instructions, you can enjoy the taste of Philadelphia without ever leaving your home. Experiment with different toppings and variations to create your perfect Cheesesteak masterpiece. Enjoy!