philly cheese steak sandwich with peppers cheap and easy

Introduction

Craving a classic Philly Cheesesteak sandwich but short on time and budget? Look no further! This guide will show you how to make a delicious, affordable, and easy Philly Cheesesteak with peppers right in your own kitchen. We’ll break down the steps, ingredient substitutions, and tips for achieving that authentic flavor without breaking the bank.

Making Your Cheap & Easy Philly Cheesesteak

Selecting Your Steak

The key to a good cheesesteak is the meat. Here are some budget-friendly options:

• Thinly Sliced Sirloin: This is the ideal cut if you can find it on sale.
• Shaved Steak: Pre-shaved steak saves time and can often be found at reasonable prices.
• Flank Steak: Slice it very thinly against the grain for tender bites. Freeze it slightly beforehand to make slicing easier.
• Ribeye (occasionally on sale): Splurge if you find a good deal, but ribeye is not essential for a budget-friendly version.

Choosing Your Cheese

While provolone is the traditional choice, there are ways to save on cheese without sacrificing flavor:

• Provolone Slices: Keep an eye out for sales at your local grocery store.
• White American Cheese: Melts beautifully and offers a creamy texture.
• Cheese Whiz: A classic and affordable option, though less “gourmet.”
• Mozzarella (Low Moisture): Holds its shape when melted and is generally cheaper.

Peppers & Onions: The Veggie Component

Peppers and onions are essential for a great Philly Cheesesteak. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. Slice the Onions: Thinly slice one medium-sized yellow or white onion.
2. Slice the Peppers: Use green bell peppers (most affordable) or a mix of green and red for more color. Remove seeds and membranes and slice into thin strips.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and peppers and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. A pinch of garlic powder adds a nice touch.
4. Optional – Add a Kick: Include jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Assembling the Cheesesteak

The final assembly is where the magic happens!

1. Cook the Steak: In the same skillet (or a clean one), add another tablespoon of oil. Cook the sliced steak in batches over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Combine Ingredients: Push the steak and vegetables together in the skillet.
3. Add the Cheese: Top the mixture with your chosen cheese slices. Let the cheese melt slightly, about 1-2 minutes. You can add a splash of water to the pan and cover it with a lid to help the cheese melt faster.
4. Load the Bread: Cut your hoagie rolls lengthwise, almost all the way through. Use a spatula to scoop up a generous portion of the steak, peppers, onions, and melted cheese, and carefully transfer it to the roll.
5. Enjoy Immediately! Serve your delicious, cheap, and easy Philly Cheesesteak while it’s hot and cheesy.

Bread Options

The right bread makes all the difference:

• Hoagie Rolls: The traditional choice. Look for soft and sturdy rolls.
• Sub Rolls: A good substitute if hoagie rolls are unavailable.
• French Bread: Can be sliced and used if hoagie or sub rolls are not accessible.

Conclusion

Making a Philly Cheesesteak with peppers doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. By using affordable ingredients, simple techniques, and a little creativity, you can enjoy this iconic sandwich any time you crave it. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to savor a delicious and budget-friendly meal!