one pan philly cheese steak recipe with caramelized onions

Introduction

Craving a classic Philly Cheesesteak but dreading the mess? Look no further! This one-pan Philly Cheesesteak recipe with caramelized onions delivers all the savory goodness you crave, with minimal cleanup. Imagine tender, thinly sliced steak, sweet and savory caramelized onions, melty cheese, all nestled in a hoagie roll. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Say goodbye to multiple pans and hello to delicious simplicity!

One-Pan Philly Cheesesteak: The Magic is in the Method

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1.5 lbs thinly sliced steak (ribeye or sirloin work best)
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 4-6 hoagie rolls
• 8-12 slices provolone cheese (or your favorite cheese, like American or Cheez Whiz)
• Optional: Bell peppers, mushrooms

Caramelizing the Onions: Sweetness is Key

The caramelized onions are a crucial component of a great Philly Cheesesteak. Here’s how to get them just right:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes, or until the onions are deeply golden brown and softened. Don’t rush this process! Low and slow is the key to proper caramelization.
4. Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.

Cooking the Steak: Sear for Flavor

Getting that perfectly seared steak adds layers of flavor to your Philly Cheesesteak.

1. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the thinly sliced steak with garlic powder and onion powder.
3. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Overcrowding the pan will steam the steak instead of searing it.
4. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

Bringing it All Together: The Assembly

Now for the grand finale! Here’s how to assemble your one-pan Philly Cheesesteaks:

1. Return the cooked steak to the skillet.
2. Add the caramelized onions to the skillet with the steak. Toss to combine.
3. Top the mixture with slices of provolone cheese, covering the entire surface of the steak and onions.
4. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Serving Your Philly Cheesesteaks

Now the fun part – eating!

1. Open the hoagie rolls.
2. Using a spatula, carefully scoop a generous portion of the steak, onions, and melted cheese onto each roll.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Optional Additions and Variations

• **Bell Peppers and Mushrooms:** Add sliced bell peppers and mushrooms to the pan with the onions for extra flavor and texture.
• **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onions for a little heat.
• **Cheese Variations:** Experiment with different cheeses like American, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses.
• **Au Jus Dip:** Serve with a side of au jus for dipping.

Conclusion

This one-pan Philly Cheesesteak recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or anyone looking for a delicious and easy meal. The caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory steak and melted cheese. So skip the takeout and impress your family and friends with this homemade, one-pan wonder. You’ll have a flavorful, satisfying meal on the table in no time, with minimal cleanup. Enjoy!