Introduction
Craving a classic Philly Cheesesteak but short on time? This one-pan Philly Cheesesteak recipe is your answer! Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also perfect for meal prepping. Imagine having delicious, customizable Philly Cheesesteaks ready to go for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This recipe minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor, making it a win-win for busy individuals and families.
One-Pan Philly Cheesesteak: The Perfect Meal Prep Solution
Why One-Pan is King
- Reduced Cleanup: Fewer dishes mean less time spent in the kitchen after cooking.
- Even Cooking: The ingredients cook together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Simplified Meal Prep: Portioning and storing are a breeze when everything is already in one pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin is ideal. Look for it pre-sliced at the grocery store to save time. (Approx. 1-1.5 lbs)
- Onions: Yellow or white onions, thinly sliced (1-2 medium)
- Peppers: Green bell peppers, thinly sliced (1-2 medium)
- Mushrooms: Optional, but highly recommended. Sliced baby Bella or white mushrooms (8 oz)
- Cheese: Provolone is traditional, but you can also use American or cheddar cheese slices. (8-12 slices)
- Seasoning: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder (to taste)
- Oil: Olive oil or vegetable oil for cooking (2 tablespoons)
- Rolls: Hoagie rolls or sub rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Veggies: Thinly slice the onions, peppers, and mushrooms (if using).
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat the oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and peppers (and mushrooms, if using). Cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Steak: Add the steak to the same pan (no need to clean it!). Cook in batches if necessary, to avoid overcrowding. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per batch.
- Combine and Cheese: Add the cooked vegetables back to the pan with the steak. Mix well. Arrange the cheese slices over the steak and vegetable mixture. Cover the pan and let the cheese melt, about 1-2 minutes.
- Assemble Your Cheesesteaks: Slice the hoagie rolls and fill them with the steak and cheese mixture. Serve immediately!
Meal Prep Tips and Tricks
- Portioning: Divide the cooked steak and vegetable mixture into individual containers.
- Rolls: Store the rolls separately to prevent them from getting soggy. Toast them lightly before adding the filling.
- Reheating: Reheat the steak and vegetable mixture in the microwave or in a pan on the stovetop.
- Storage: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the steak and vegetable mixture. Thaw completely before reheating.
Variations and Customization
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, provolone with herbs, or even a cheese sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Toppings: Consider adding toppings like pickles, banana peppers, or a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
- Bread Options: Use different types of rolls, like sourdough or pretzel rolls.
Conclusion
This one-pan Philly Cheesesteak recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish without the fuss. Its simplicity and adaptability make it an ideal choice for meal prepping, allowing you to have a delicious and satisfying meal ready whenever you need it. So, ditch the takeout and embrace this easy, flavorful, and meal-prep-friendly version of the beloved Philly Cheesesteak! Enjoy!
