Introduction
Looking for a crowd-pleasing, family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and utterly delicious? Look no further than oven-baked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders! This recipe takes the classic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak and transforms them into convenient, bite-sized sliders perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or even potlucks. Skip the messy stovetop cooking and enjoy this simplified, oven-baked version that the whole family will love.
Making Oven-Baked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb thinly sliced steak (ribeye or sirloin work well)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
- 1 (12-count) package slider buns
- 8 oz provolone cheese slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: Cheese Whiz, hot sauce, sautéed mushrooms
Step-by-Step Instructions
- **Prepare the Vegetables:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- **Cook the Steak:** While the vegetables are cooking, season the thinly sliced steak with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the steak to the skillet with the vegetables and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the steak; it should still be slightly pink.
- **Assemble the Sliders:** Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves of the buns on a baking sheet. Layer the steak and vegetable mixture evenly over the bottom buns.
- **Add the Cheese:** Top the steak and vegetable mixture with provolone cheese slices, ensuring each slider is covered.
- **Bake the Sliders:** Place the top halves of the buns on top of the cheese. Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the buns are lightly golden brown.
- **Serve and Enjoy:** Slice the sliders and serve immediately. Offer optional toppings such as Cheese Whiz, hot sauce, or sautéed mushrooms.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Sliders
- **Choose the Right Steak:** Ribeye or sirloin are the best cuts of steak for Philly Cheesesteaks because they are tender and flavorful. Make sure the steak is thinly sliced for optimal cooking.
- **Don’t Overcook the Steak:** Overcooked steak will be tough and dry. Cook the steak just until it’s browned and still slightly pink.
- **Caramelize the Vegetables:** Caramelizing the onions and peppers adds a depth of flavor to the sliders. Take your time and let them cook until they are softened and slightly browned.
- **Use Good Quality Cheese:** Provolone cheese is the traditional choice for Philly Cheesesteaks, but you can also use white American cheese or mozzarella cheese.
- **Make it Ahead:** You can prepare the steak and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake the sliders, simply assemble them and bake according to the instructions.
Variations and Customizations
- **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the steak and vegetable mixture for a spicy kick.
- **Mushroom Lovers:** Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for a mushroom Philly Cheesesteak slider.
- **Cheese Whiz Option:** For a more authentic Philly Cheesesteak experience, spread Cheese Whiz on the bottom buns before adding the steak and vegetable mixture.
- **Add Some Greens:** Top the sliders with shredded lettuce or spinach for a fresh twist.
Conclusion
Oven-baked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are a guaranteed hit with the whole family. They’re easy to make, customizable to your liking, and incredibly delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak in a fun and convenient slider format. So, ditch the takeout and try this recipe for your next family meal or gathering. You won’t be disappointed!