Craving a taste of Philadelphia without leaving your kitchen? This guide provides the definitive recipe for crafting the absolute best homemade Philly cheesesteak with provolone cheese. Forget the imitations โ we’re delivering authentic flavors and techniques to satisfy your cravings.
The Ultimate Homemade Philly Cheesesteak with Provolone
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Authentic Ingredients: We use only the best quality beef and provolone cheese, just like they do in Philly.
- Proven Technique: Our method focuses on achieving the perfect sear on the beef and melt on the cheese.
- Customizable: We provide options for personalizing your cheesesteak with different toppings.
- Easy to Follow: Clear, step-by-step instructions make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Beef: 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye steak (crucial for authentic texture)
- Rolls: 2 Amoroso’s rolls (or good quality hoagie rolls) โ these are the real deal!
- Cheese: 8 slices provolone cheese (sharp provolone is also a great option)
- Onions: 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- Oil: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Hot peppers, sautรฉed mushrooms, or pizza sauce (for a “pizza steak”)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
- Slice the Beef: If you can’t find pre-sliced ribeye, partially freeze the steak for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to slice very thinly.
- Slice the Onions: Thinly slice the yellow onion.
- Prepare the Rolls: Gently warm the hoagie rolls in the oven or toaster for a softer, more pliable texture.
Cooking the Cheesesteak
- Sautรฉ the Onions: Heat the oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Increase the heat to high. Add the sliced ribeye to the same skillet in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until browned. Use a spatula to chop the beef into smaller pieces while cooking.
- Combine and Cheese: Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add the cooked onions back into the skillet. Mix the onions and beef together. Arrange the provolone slices over the mixture, allowing them to melt. If the cheese isn’t melting quickly enough, add a splash of water to the skillet and cover it briefly. The steam will help melt the cheese.
- Assemble the Cheesesteaks: Using a spatula, carefully scoop the beef, onions, and melted cheese onto each of the prepared hoagie rolls.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesesteak
- Quality Beef is Key: Don’t skimp on the ribeye. It’s the heart of the cheesesteak.
- High Heat is Essential: Searing the beef quickly locks in the juices and creates that signature crust.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Aim for a quick sear. Overcooked beef will be tough.
- Use a Good Griddle or Skillet: Cast iron is ideal for even heat distribution.
- Warm the Rolls: This makes them easier to handle and bite into.
Variations and Toppings
Cheesesteak Options
- “Whiz Wit”: Use Cheez Whiz instead of provolone and specify “with onions” when ordering (this recipe already includes onions).
- Pizza Steak: Add pizza sauce to the cheesesteak before adding the cheese.
- Mushroom Cheesesteak: Sautรฉ sliced mushrooms along with the onions.
- Hot Pepper Cheesesteak: Add pickled hot peppers or a spicy pepper spread.
Conclusion
With this recipe, you’re well on your way to creating the most delicious and authentic homemade Philly cheesesteak with provolone cheese. The key is to use high-quality ingredients, follow the steps carefully, and don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings. Enjoy a taste of Philadelphia right in your own home! This recipe is guaranteed to impress friends and family. Search engine optimized for “philly cheese steak recipe”, “provolone cheese cheesesteak”, “best homemade philly cheesesteak”.
