philly cheese steak with mushrooms and onions for beginners

Introduction

Craving a classic Philly cheesesteak but intimidated by the thought of making it yourself? Fear not! This guide breaks down how to create a delicious, beginner-friendly Philly cheesesteak with mushrooms and onions right in your own kitchen. We’ll cover everything from ingredient selection to cooking techniques, ensuring you get a flavorful, satisfying sandwich every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your newfound cheesesteak skills!

Making Your Mushroom & Onion Philly Cheesesteak

Gathering Your Ingredients

The key to a great cheesesteak starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye is traditional, but shaved steak (often found in the frozen section) works well for beginners as it’s already prepared. Aim for about 1/2 pound per sandwich.
• Rolls: Hoagie rolls are a must! Look for sturdy, slightly crusty rolls that can hold the filling without falling apart.
• Cheese: Provolone is the classic choice, but American cheese or even Cheese Whiz are also popular options.
• Onions: One medium yellow or white onion, thinly sliced.
• Mushrooms: 8 ounces of your favorite mushrooms, such as cremini or button, sliced.
• Oil: A tablespoon or two of vegetable or olive oil for cooking.
• Seasoning: Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
• Optional: Hot sauce, peppers, or other toppings of your choice.

Prepping Your Ingredients

Proper preparation is crucial for a smooth cooking process:

1. Slice the onions and mushrooms: Aim for thin, even slices so they cook quickly and evenly.
2. Prepare the steak: If using shaved steak, separate the pieces to prevent clumping. If using a larger cut, ensure it’s thinly sliced. Partially freezing the steak before slicing can make this easier.
3. Preheat your pan: A large cast iron skillet or griddle works best, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do. Heat it over medium-high heat.

Cooking the Cheesesteak

Now for the fun part!

1. Sauté the onions and mushrooms: Add the oil to the hot pan. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Cook the steak: Add a bit more oil to the pan if needed. Add the steak to the hot pan, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Combine everything: Add the cooked onions and mushrooms back to the pan with the steak. Toss to combine.
4. Add the cheese: Divide the mixture into portions (one for each sandwich). Top each portion with cheese slices. Let the cheese melt slightly.
5. Assemble the cheesesteaks: Using a spatula, carefully scoop each cheesy steak mixture onto a hoagie roll. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Cheesesteak Success

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly.
• Use a sharp spatula: This will help you chop and separate the steak efficiently.
• Toast the rolls: For an extra touch, toast the hoagie rolls lightly before adding the filling.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different types of cheese to find your favorite flavor combination.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made a delicious Philly cheesesteak with mushrooms and onions. With a little practice, you’ll be whipping up these sandwiches like a pro in no time. This easy recipe provides a solid foundation for you to experiment with different cheeses, toppings, and seasonings. Don’t be afraid to customize your cheesesteak to your liking and enjoy the taste of Philadelphia in your own kitchen!