homemade philly cheese steak sandwich guide meal prep idea

Introduction

Craving a delicious and authentic Philly Cheesesteak but don’t want to break the bank or leave the comfort of your home? You’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through creating the perfect homemade Philly Cheesesteak, and we’ll even show you how to meal prep it for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or satisfying lunch. Get ready to enjoy this iconic sandwich made with your own personal touch!

Building Your Best Philly Cheesesteak

Choosing the Right Steak

The foundation of a great cheesesteak is the steak itself. Opt for thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin for the most authentic flavor and texture. Here’s how to choose the right cut:

• Ribeye: Known for its rich marbling and flavor, ribeye is a classic choice.
• Sirloin: A leaner option that’s still tender when thinly sliced.
• Thinly sliced is key: If you can’t find pre-sliced steak, ask your butcher to slice it thinly for you. Alternatively, partially freeze the steak before slicing it yourself for easier handling.

Selecting the Perfect Bread

The bread is just as important as the steak. A good roll should be sturdy enough to hold the filling but also soft and easy to bite into.

• Amoroso’s Rolls: The gold standard for Philly Cheesesteaks. If you can find them, grab them!
• Hoagie Rolls: A good substitute if Amoroso’s aren’t available. Look for soft, slightly chewy rolls.
• Important Tip: Toast the inside of the roll lightly to prevent it from getting soggy.

Cheese, Please!

Choosing the right cheese is crucial. There’s debate in Philly about the “best” cheese, but here are the most popular choices:

• Provolone: A mild, creamy cheese that melts beautifully.
• American Cheese: A classic choice for its smooth, melty texture.
• Cheese Whiz: A Philly favorite! It adds a distinct tangy flavor.

Onions and Peppers: The Classic Additions

While some prefer their cheesesteak plain, adding onions and peppers takes it to the next level. Here’s how to prepare them:

• Onions: Thinly sliced yellow or white onions are best. Caramelize them in a little oil until soft and slightly sweet.
• Peppers: Green bell peppers are the traditional choice. Slice them thinly and sauté with the onions.

Assembling Your Masterpiece

1. Cook the steak: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and cook the steak in batches, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
2. Add the onions and peppers: Push the steak to the side and add the onions and peppers to the skillet. Cook until softened.
3. Combine and cheese: Mix the steak, onions, and peppers together. Top with your chosen cheese and let it melt.
4. Load the roll: Scoop the mixture into the toasted roll.
5. Enjoy! Serve immediately and savor every bite.

Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep: Make-Ahead Magic

Prepping the Ingredients

Meal prepping your Philly Cheesesteak components saves time during the week. Here’s how:

• Slice and store: Slice the steak, onions, and peppers and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Cheese it: Portion out your cheese slices into individual bags or containers.
• Roll prep: Toast the insides of your rolls and store them in a ziplock bag at room temperature (do this the day you plan to eat them for best results).

Cooking and Assembling for Meal Prep

1. Cook ahead (optional): You can cook the steak and vegetables in advance, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for the quickest assembly during the week. Alternatively, cook fresh each time for optimal flavor.
2. Assemble when ready: When you’re ready to eat, reheat the steak and vegetables if pre-cooked. Add the cheese and melt.
3. Load and enjoy! Scoop the mixture into the roll and enjoy your delicious homemade Philly Cheesesteak.

Pro-Tip: If you are packing this for lunch and won’t be able to toast the bread before assembly, consider wrapping the filling in a separate container from the bread to prevent sogginess. Then assemble right before eating.

Conclusion

Making a Philly Cheesesteak at home is easier than you think! By following this guide and using our meal prep tips, you can enjoy this classic sandwich any time you crave it. Experiment with different cheeses and toppings to create your own signature cheesesteak. Happy cooking and bon appétit!