philly cheese steak with provolone cheese recipe budget friendly recipe

Introduction

Craving a delicious Philly Cheesesteak but watching your wallet? You’re in the right place! This budget-friendly recipe delivers the authentic taste of a classic Philly Cheesesteak with provolone cheese, without breaking the bank. We’ll guide you through simple steps and affordable ingredients to create a mouthwatering sandwich that will satisfy your cravings.

Making Your Budget-Friendly Philly Cheesesteak

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as sirloin or chuck steak, shaved thinly or pre-shaved from the deli)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (green or red), thinly sliced (optional for added flavor)
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 4-6 slices provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Thinly slice the beef, onion, and bell pepper (if using). Have your provolone cheese ready to go.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers (if using). Cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef: Add the thinly sliced beef to the same skillet or griddle. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also add a nice savory depth.
4. Combine and Melt the Cheese: Push the cooked beef into separate piles, roughly the size of your hoagie rolls. Top each pile with slices of provolone cheese. Allow the cheese to melt, about 1-2 minutes. You can add a splash of water to the pan and cover it briefly to help the cheese melt faster.
5. Assemble the Cheesesteaks: Open up the hoagie rolls. Using a spatula, carefully transfer each beef and cheese pile onto a roll. Top with the cooked onions and peppers.
6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your delicious, budget-friendly Philly Cheesesteak while it’s hot!

Tips for Saving Money

• Buy Beef in Bulk: Purchase a larger cut of beef when it’s on sale and slice it thinly yourself using a sharp knife or a meat slicer (if you have one). Freezing the beef slightly before slicing can make it easier.
• Utilize Budget-Friendly Beef Cuts: While ribeye is traditional, using chuck steak or even shaved beef from the deli can significantly reduce the cost.
• Shop Smart for Cheese: Buy provolone cheese in blocks and slice it yourself instead of purchasing pre-sliced cheese, which is usually more expensive.
• Grow Your Own Herbs and Vegetables: If you have a garden, growing your own onions and peppers can save you money and provide fresh, flavorful ingredients.
• Make Your Own Rolls: While it requires more effort, baking your own hoagie rolls is a great way to save money and customize the flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Cheesesteak with Onions Only: Skip the bell peppers for a more traditional Philly Cheesesteak experience.
• Spicy Cheesesteak: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef while cooking.
• Mushroom Cheesesteak: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for an earthy flavor.

Conclusion

With this budget-friendly Philly Cheesesteak recipe, you can enjoy the classic taste of this iconic sandwich without breaking the bank. By using affordable ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the taste of Philly in your own kitchen!