philly cheese steak recipe with ground beef original style

Introduction

Craving a Philly Cheesesteak but short on sliced steak? No problem! This recipe delivers all the classic flavors of the iconic sandwich using ground beef. While traditionalists might argue, this ground beef Philly Cheesesteak recipe offers a delicious, budget-friendly, and surprisingly authentic-tasting experience. We’ll walk you through creating a mouthwatering sandwich that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend feast.

This version aims to capture the essence of the original Philly Cheesesteak, focusing on simple ingredients and techniques to maximize flavor. Forget fancy sauces; we’re going back to basics with seasoned ground beef, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a soft, chewy roll.

Making Your Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak: The Original Style

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 large Onion, thinly sliced
• 2 Bell Peppers (optional, but adds a nice sweetness), thinly sliced
• 4 Hoagie Rolls, preferably Amoroso’s if you can find them
• 6-8 slices Provolone Cheese (or Cheese Whiz for a true Philly experience)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions (and Peppers): Heat olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add sliced onions (and peppers, if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. The key here is patience; let the onions develop a deep, sweet flavor. Remove the onions/peppers from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the same skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, draining off any excess grease.
3. Combine and Season: Push the cooked ground beef to one side of the skillet. Add the caramelized onions (and peppers) back to the skillet, mixing them in with the beef. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
4. Assemble the Cheesesteaks: Divide the beef and onion mixture into four equal portions within the skillet. Top each portion with provolone cheese slices, letting them melt slightly.
5. Load the Rolls: Use a spatula to carefully lift each cheesesteak portion onto a hoagie roll. You can also use the roll to scoop up the mixture from the skillet.
6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak while it’s hot and cheesy!

Tips for the Best Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Overcooked ground beef will be dry and less flavorful. Cook until just browned.
• Caramelize the Onions Properly: This is crucial for achieving that authentic Philly Cheesesteak flavor. Don’t rush the process.
• Use Quality Cheese: Provolone is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like white American or even a sprinkle of mozzarella. Cheese Whiz is a very traditional (though perhaps controversial) option.
• Choose the Right Roll: A good hoagie roll should be soft on the inside and slightly crusty on the outside. Amoroso’s rolls are highly recommended if available.
• Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the ground beef and onions liberally. Salt and pepper are your friends!

Variations and Add-ins

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture.
• Mushroom Cheesesteak: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions for a classic variation.
• Pizza Cheesesteak: Add marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for a pizza-inspired twist.

Conclusion

This ground beef Philly Cheesesteak recipe offers a tasty and convenient alternative to the traditional steak version. While it might not be exactly the same as the original, it captures the essence of the classic sandwich with its savory beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a satisfying and flavorful Philly Cheesesteak right at home. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a delicious and budget-friendly twist on a Philly favorite!