slow cooker philly cheese steak sandwiches best restaurant style

Introduction: Restaurant-Quality Philly Cheesesteaks, Effortlessly

Craving that authentic Philly Cheesesteak taste, but don’t want to spend a fortune or leave the comfort of your home? You’re in luck! This recipe brings the best restaurant-style Philly Cheesesteak experience right to your kitchen, using the magic of a slow cooker. Imagine tender, flavorful beef, perfectly melted cheese, and soft rolls – all achieved with minimal effort. Forget standing over a hot grill; let your slow cooker do the work while you relax and anticipate a truly delicious meal.

Making the Best Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches

The Key to Authentic Philly Flavor: Choosing the Right Beef

The heart of any great Philly Cheesesteak is, of course, the beef. Here’s how to pick the best cut for optimal flavor and tenderness in your slow cooker:

• Chuck Roast: This is our top recommendation. Chuck roast becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. It’s also budget-friendly.
• Sirloin Tip Roast: A leaner option that still provides excellent flavor and tenderness, but be careful not to overcook it.
• Shaved Steak: While you *can* use shaved steak, it’s better suited for a quicker stovetop cook. If using shaved steak in the slow cooker, add it later in the cooking process (the last 1-2 hours) to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Perfecting the Philly Cheesesteak Sauce: Flavor Boosting Ingredients

A simple yet flavorful sauce base enhances the overall taste. Here’s what we suggest:

• Beef Broth: Provides a rich, savory base for the sauce. Use low-sodium to control the salt level.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and umami to the beef.
• Onion Soup Mix: A secret ingredient for that authentic Philly Cheesesteak flavor!
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Essential flavor enhancers.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is best.

The Cheese Factor: Choosing the Right Melt

The cheese is just as important as the beef! Here are the best cheese choices for a gooey, authentic Philly Cheesesteak:

• Provolone: The classic choice! It melts beautifully and has a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
• American Cheese: Another popular option, known for its creamy melt. White American cheese is preferred by many.
• Cheese Whiz: While not everyone’s favorite, it’s undeniably iconic. Use it sparingly if you choose this option.

Step-by-Step Slow Cooker Instructions: A Simple Guide

1. Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended): Sear the chuck roast on all sides in a hot skillet with a little oil. This creates a flavorful crust and helps to lock in the juices.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the seared beef in the slow cooker.
3. Add the Sauce Ingredients: Pour the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion soup mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the beef.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is very tender and easily shreds.
5. Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
6. Return to the Slow Cooker: Place the shredded beef back into the slow cooker to soak up the juices.
7. Assemble the Sandwiches: Pile the shredded beef onto your favorite hoagie rolls.
8. Add the Cheese: Top with slices of provolone or American cheese (or your cheese of choice).
9. Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches under a broiler for a minute or two, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can wrap each sandwich in foil and place them back in the warm slow cooker for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted.
10. Serve and Enjoy!

Toppings and Variations: Customize Your Philly Cheesesteak

While the classic Philly Cheesesteak is simple, feel free to experiment with these toppings:

• Onions: Sautéed onions are a must for many.
• Peppers: Green bell peppers are another classic addition. Sauté them with the onions for extra flavor.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy flavor.
• Hot Peppers: For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers.
• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli can add a delicious touch.

Conclusion: Enjoy Restaurant-Style Philly Cheesesteaks at Home

With this slow cooker recipe, you can easily create restaurant-quality Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches in the comfort of your own kitchen. The slow cooker method ensures tender, flavorful beef, and the customizable toppings allow you to create your perfect version. Gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and prepare to indulge in a truly satisfying and delicious meal. Enjoy!