quick philly cheese steak skillet dinner best restaurant style

Introduction

Craving a restaurant-quality Philly cheesesteak but short on time? This quick Philly cheesesteak skillet dinner brings all the flavors of the classic sandwich to your table in under 30 minutes! Forget takeout; with simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

The Secret to Restaurant-Style Flavor

Choosing the Right Steak

The key to an authentic Philly cheesesteak lies in the thinly sliced steak. Look for:

• Ribeye: This cut is traditionally used due to its rich marbling and flavor. Ask your butcher to thinly slice it for you (about 1/8 inch thick).
• Sirloin: A leaner option that still delivers great flavor. Ensure it’s thinly sliced.
• Shaved Steak: Pre-shaved steak is a convenient option available at most grocery stores.

Perfectly Caramelized Onions and Peppers

Don’t rush this step! Caramelizing the onions and peppers properly adds depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. Here’s how:

1. Use a large skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium heat.
2. Add a tablespoon of oil (vegetable or olive oil works well).
3. Add thinly sliced onions and bell peppers (green bell peppers are classic).
4. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly browned, about 10-15 minutes.

The Cheese Factor

Cheese is crucial for that authentic cheesesteak experience. Here are a few options:

• Provolone: A classic choice that melts beautifully.
• American Cheese: Provides a creamy, melty texture. White American cheese is preferred by many.
• Cheese Whiz: A controversial but undeniably popular option for a truly authentic Philly experience.

Quick Philly Cheesesteak Skillet Dinner Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4-6 slices provolone or American cheese
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Hoagie rolls for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly browned, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
4. Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook, breaking up the steak with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Return the cooked onions and peppers to the skillet with the steak.
7. Top with the cheese slices. Cover the skillet and cook until the cheese is melted, about 1-2 minutes.
8. Optional: Serve on toasted hoagie rolls for a complete Philly cheesesteak sandwich.

Tips and Variations

Spice it Up!

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the steak while cooking for a little heat.

Mushroom Lovers

Include sliced mushrooms along with the onions and peppers for added flavor and texture.

Cheesesteak Bowls

Skip the bread and serve the cheesesteak mixture over rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Make Ahead

Cook the steak, onions, and peppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Simply reheat and add the cheese when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This quick Philly cheesesteak skillet dinner is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of a restaurant-quality cheesesteak at home. With customizable ingredients and a speedy cooking process, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Enjoy!