slow cooker philly cheese steak sandwiches for picky eaters

Introduction

Trying to please picky eaters can be a culinary challenge, especially when it comes to something like Philly Cheese Steak sandwiches. But fear not! This slow cooker Philly Cheese Steak recipe is designed to be easily customizable and packed with flavors that even the most selective palates will enjoy. The slow cooker tenderizes the beef to perfection, making it easier to chew and digest, and the customizable toppings allow everyone to create their perfect sandwich. Get ready to say goodbye to dinner-time struggles and hello to happy faces around the table!

Making Slow Cooker Philly Cheese Steaks Picky-Eater Friendly

Choosing the Right Beef

The key to a tender and appealing Philly Cheese Steak for picky eaters starts with the beef. We recommend using:

• Top Round: A leaner cut that becomes incredibly tender in the slow cooker.
• Chuck Roast: Offers more marbling for flavor, but trim any excess fat before cooking.
• Flank Steak: Slices very thin after cooking and is usually very tender

Avoid tougher cuts that require longer cooking times, as they may end up dry or stringy.

Flavor Customization

This is where the magic happens! Instead of adding strong flavors directly to the slow cooker, offer a variety of optional toppings and condiments that allow everyone to personalize their sandwich:

• Onions: Caramelize sliced onions separately in a pan with a little butter for a sweeter, milder flavor.
• Peppers: Sautéed green bell peppers (or any color) are classic, but offer them on the side.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy flavor, but some picky eaters may prefer to omit them.
• Cheese: Provolone is traditional, but consider offering mild cheddar, mozzarella, or even a cheese sauce. A shredded cheese blend can be a great option for melting.
• Condiments: Ketchup, mustard (yellow or Dijon), mayonnaise, and steak sauce are all popular choices.

The Slow Cooker Advantage

Using a slow cooker offers several advantages for picky eaters:

1. Tenderizes Meat: Long, slow cooking breaks down tough fibers, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Easy to Manage: Set it and forget it! No constant monitoring required.
3. Aroma: The enticing aroma of the slow-cooking beef can pique even the most reluctant appetite.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the beef ahead of time and simply assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to eat.

Foolproof Slow Cooker Philly Cheese Steak Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2-3 lbs Top Round, Chuck Roast, or Flank Steak
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup beef broth
• Hoagie rolls
• Optional toppings: Sliced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, cheese, condiments

Instructions:

1. Trim any excess fat from the beef. Cut beef into thin strips or bite-sized pieces (for a more familiar texture for picky eaters).
2. Season the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. This step adds flavor and texture.
4. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
5. Pour beef broth over the beef.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
7. Shred the beef with two forks.
8. Serve on hoagie rolls with your choice of toppings.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Thinly Slice the Beef: Even after slow cooking, very thin slices of beef are easier for picky eaters to manage.
• Offer Plain Options: Provide some plain beef without any seasoning for those who prefer a very mild flavor.
• Deconstruct the Sandwich: Let kids assemble their own sandwiches, so they can control exactly what goes inside.
• Presentation Matters: Cut the sandwiches in half or into smaller pieces for easier handling.
• Serve with Familiar Sides: Offer sides that your picky eater already enjoys, such as french fries, carrot sticks, or apple slices.

Conclusion

Making Philly Cheese Steaks for picky eaters doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By focusing on tender meat, customizable toppings, and a slow cooker’s magic, you can create a meal that everyone will enjoy. Remember to be patient, offer options, and celebrate the small victories. With this recipe and these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a picky-eater-approved chef!