Introduction
Craving a Philly Cheesesteak but worried about the cost? You’re in luck! This recipe brings the iconic flavors of the Philadelphia classic to your kitchen using budget-friendly ground beef. We’ll show you how to create a delicious and satisfying cheesesteak that won’t break the bank. Get ready for a taste of Philly without the hefty price tag!
Making the Ultimate Budget-Friendly Philly Cheesesteak
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 is a good choice for flavor)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (green or your preference), thinly sliced
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4-6 slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Worcestershire sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell pepper and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the Beef: Sprinkle the cooked ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, if desired, for extra flavor. Stir well to combine.
- Combine and Cheese: Return the cooked onions and bell peppers to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low. Arrange the cheese slices evenly over the beef and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, about 1-2 minutes.
- Assemble the Cheesesteaks: Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, but not all the way through. Carefully scoop the beef and cheese mixture into each roll. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Philly Cheesesteak!
Tips for a Perfect Cheesesteak
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the onions and peppers in batches if necessary to ensure they caramelize properly.
- Thinly Sliced is Key: Thinly sliced onions and peppers cook faster and more evenly.
- Cheese Choice Matters: Provolone is the traditional choice, but mozzarella also works well. Consider using a blend for extra flavor.
- Toast the Rolls: For added texture, lightly toast the inside of the hoagie rolls before filling.
- Add-Ins: Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding mushrooms, hot peppers, or a drizzle of cheese sauce.
Variations for Your Cheesesteak
- Pizza Cheesesteak: Add marinara sauce and pepperoni for a pizza-inspired twist.
- Spicy Cheesesteak: Incorporate jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Mushroom Cheesesteak: Sautรฉ mushrooms alongside the onions and peppers for a more savory flavor.
Conclusion
This ground beef Philly Cheesesteak recipe offers a delicious and affordable way to enjoy a classic sandwich. By using ground beef and simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. So, fire up your skillet and get ready to experience the taste of Philly without breaking the bank!