slow cooker philly cheese steak sandwiches step by step

Introduction: The Easiest Philly Cheesesteak – Slow Cooker Style!

Craving a delicious, authentic Philly Cheesesteak but don’t want to spend hours at the stove? Look no further! This recipe transforms the classic into a hands-off masterpiece, thanks to the magic of your slow cooker. Get ready for tender, flavorful beef and perfectly melted cheese, all ready to pile onto your favorite rolls. This step-by-step guide will have you enjoying the taste of Philly in no time, with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or any occasion that calls for a crowd-pleasing meal!

Ingredients and Preparation: Your Shopping List

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients for a seamless cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Beef: 2-3 lbs of thinly sliced beef (shaved steak, sirloin, or even roast beef works well)
• Onions: 1-2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• Bell Peppers: 1-2 bell peppers (green, red, or a mix), thinly sliced
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
• Beef Broth: 1 cup
• Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra umami)
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Cheese: Provolone or white American cheese slices
• Rolls: Hoagie or sub rolls

Prep Work for Success

While the slow cooker does most of the work, a little prep goes a long way:

1. Slice the Onions and Peppers: Ensure they are thinly sliced for even cooking.
2. Mince the Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds the best flavor.
3. Lightly Sear the Beef (Optional): While not essential, searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds a depth of flavor. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides.

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Slow Cooker to Sandwich

Layering in the Slow Cooker

Here’s how to create the perfect slow cooker environment for your Philly Cheesesteak:

1. First Layer: Place the sliced onions and bell peppers at the bottom of the slow cooker. This prevents the beef from sticking and adds flavor to the broth.
2. Add the Garlic: Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the vegetables.
3. Layer the Beef: Place the thinly sliced beef on top of the vegetables. If you seared the beef, add it now.
4. Pour the Liquids: In a small bowl, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce (if using). Pour the mixture evenly over the beef.
5. Season: Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

Slow Cooking to Perfection

Now, let the slow cooker work its magic:

1. Cook Time: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be very tender and easily shreddable.
2. Shred the Beef: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the beef directly in the slow cooker.
3. Mix Well: Stir the shredded beef with the onions and peppers to ensure everything is well combined with the flavorful juices.

Assembling Your Philly Cheesesteak

The final step is to bring it all together for the ultimate Philly Cheesesteak experience:

1. Prepare the Rolls: Lightly toast the hoagie or sub rolls for a better texture.
2. Add the Cheese: Open the rolls and place slices of provolone or white American cheese on the bottom half. You can also broil the open rolls with cheese for a minute or two to melt the cheese before adding the beef.
3. Load Up the Beef: Using a slotted spoon, scoop a generous portion of the beef mixture onto the cheesy rolls. The slotted spoon will help drain excess liquid and prevent soggy sandwiches.
4. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your delicious, slow-cooked Philly Cheesesteak while it’s hot!

Tips and Variations: Making it Your Own

Spice It Up

• Jalapeños: Add sliced jalapeños to the slow cooker for a spicy kick.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the slow cooker for added heat.

Cheese Variations

• Cheese Whiz: For a truly authentic Philly experience, use Cheese Whiz! Add it directly to the sandwich after the beef.
• Pepper Jack: Adds a spicy and creamy flavor.

Vegetable Additions

• Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for extra flavor and texture.
• Banana Peppers: Pickled banana peppers offer a tangy and slightly spicy contrast.

Serving Suggestions

• French Fries: A classic side dish for Philly Cheesesteaks.
• Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings complement the savory flavors of the sandwich.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a cool contrast.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Effortless Philly Feast!

Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak with minimal effort, thanks to the convenience of your slow cooker. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of Philly without spending hours in the kitchen. Experiment with different variations to create your perfect Philly Cheesesteak. Enjoy!