quick philly cheese steak skillet dinner budget friendly recipe

Introduction

Craving a classic Philly Cheesesteak but short on time and budget? Look no further! This quick Philly Cheesesteak skillet dinner recipe delivers all the savory goodness of the original, without the fuss or expense. We’re talking tender beef, melted cheese, and flavorful veggies, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Making Your Budget-Friendly Philly Cheesesteak Skillet

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious and affordable Philly Cheesesteak skillet:

• 1 pound thinly sliced steak (sirloin, flank steak, or even shaved steak work great)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (optional, but recommended!)
• 4 slices provolone cheese (or mozzarella or your favorite cheese)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hoagie rolls or buns (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Philly Cheesesteak skillet masterpiece:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced steak to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Season with salt and pepper. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using) to the skillet. Cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in garlic powder and onion powder.
5. Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables.
6. Top the mixture with the provolone cheese slices.
7. Cover the skillet and cook until the cheese is melted and gooey, about 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, place under the broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully to prevent burning.
8. Serve immediately on hoagie rolls or buns, or enjoy as is!

Tips for Staying on Budget

Here are some ways to keep this recipe budget-friendly:

• Choose cheaper cuts of beef: Shaved steak or even ground beef (browned and drained) can be substituted for more expensive cuts.
• Use in-season vegetables: Bell peppers are often cheaper when they are in season.
• Buy cheese in bulk: Sliced cheese can be expensive. Consider buying a block of cheese and slicing it yourself.
• Skip the rolls: Enjoy the mixture over rice or pasta for a hearty and filling meal.

Variations and Add-ins

Customize your Philly Cheesesteak skillet to your liking with these variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Cheesy Goodness: Use a blend of cheeses, such as provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar.
• Veggie Boost: Add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
• Creamy Texture: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end.

Conclusion

This quick Philly Cheesesteak skillet dinner is a delicious and budget-friendly way to satisfy your craving for a classic comfort food. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal. Get creative with the variations and make it your own! Enjoy!