how to make authentic philly cheese steak cheap and easy

Introduction

Craving an authentic Philly Cheesesteak but don’t want to break the bank or spend hours in the kitchen? You’re in luck! This guide will show you how to make a delicious, budget-friendly, and surprisingly easy Philly Cheesesteak that rivals the real deal. We’ll skip the fancy ingredients and complex techniques without sacrificing that iconic flavor and texture. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Philly from the comfort of your own home!

Making Your Authentic (and Affordable) Philly Cheesesteak

Choosing Your Steak: The Budget-Friendly Cut

The key to a great cheesesteak starts with the right steak. While ribeye is the traditional choice, it can be pricey. Here are some fantastic, more affordable alternatives:

• Top Round: This is your best bet for balancing price and flavor. It’s lean, so thin slicing is crucial.
• Sirloin: Another excellent option, often more readily available than top round.
• Flank Steak: If you’re okay with a slightly different texture, flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain, works well.

Pro Tip: Partially freezing your steak for about 30 minutes before slicing makes it much easier to achieve those super-thin, characteristic slices.

The Cheese: Whiz vs. Provolone vs. American

Authenticity debates rage about the cheese, but here’s the lowdown:

• Cheese Whiz: The classic, undeniably Philly choice. For a budget version, look for store-brand cheese sauce.
• Provolone: A sharper, more nuanced flavor profile. Opt for thinly sliced provolone for easy melting.
• American Cheese: A readily available, mild option that melts beautifully.

Ultimately, the best cheese is the one you enjoy the most! Don’t be afraid to experiment.

The Onions: Sautéed to Perfection

Caramelized onions are a must-have for an authentic cheesesteak. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Thinly slice one large yellow onion.
2. Heat a tablespoon of oil (vegetable or olive oil works) in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown (about 15-20 minutes). Don’t rush the process!
4. Season with salt and pepper.

Assembling Your Cheesesteak: The Simple Steps

1. Heat a large griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add a tablespoon of oil.
3. Add your thinly sliced steak and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 3-5 minutes).
4. Top the steak with the sautéed onions.
5. Add your cheese of choice, spreading it evenly over the steak and onions.
6. Let the cheese melt for a minute or two.
7. Using a spatula, divide the mixture into portions and place each portion into a hoagie roll.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

The Roll: Choosing Wisely

A good roll is crucial! Look for a sturdy, slightly crusty hoagie roll that can hold all the juicy goodness without falling apart. Amoroso rolls are the gold standard, but any decent hoagie roll from your local bakery or grocery store will do.

Conclusion

There you have it! An authentic-tasting Philly Cheesesteak that’s both cheap and easy to make. By choosing budget-friendly cuts of steak, readily available cheese options, and simple cooking techniques, you can enjoy this iconic sandwich any time you want. So, ditch the expensive restaurant and get cooking! Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you.