slow cooker philly cheese steak sandwiches street style

Introduction

Craving a classic Philly Cheesesteak but short on time? This slow cooker recipe brings the iconic street food flavors right to your kitchen with minimal effort. Imagine tender, flavorful beef simmering all day, ready to be piled onto crusty rolls with melted cheese and your favorite toppings. Get ready for a taste of Philly, street style, made easy!

Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches: The Ultimate Guide

Why Slow Cooker Cheesesteaks are a Game Changer

• Effortless Flavor: The slow cooker infuses the beef with incredible depth of flavor.
• Tender Beef Every Time: Low and slow cooking guarantees melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Minimal prep time and then just let the slow cooker do its magic.
• Perfect for Weeknights: Come home to a ready-made, delicious dinner.
• Ideal for Parties: Keep warm in the slow cooker and let guests build their own cheesesteaks.

Ingredients for the Perfect Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak

• Beef: We recommend using chuck roast, sirloin, or even flank steak. These cuts become incredibly tender when slow-cooked. About 2-3 pounds.
• Onions: Thinly sliced yellow or white onions are classic.
• Bell Peppers: Green bell peppers are traditional, but feel free to add red or yellow for color and sweetness.
• Cheese: Provolone is the go-to choice, but American cheese or even a cheese whiz (for a truly authentic experience!) will work.
• Rolls: Hoagie rolls or sub rolls are essential. Look for something sturdy enough to hold all the filling.
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce are all you need.
• Optional Add-Ins: Mushrooms, banana peppers, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Oil: A tablespoon or two for searing the beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Prep to Plate

1. Sear the Beef: Cut the beef into thin slices. Sear in a hot pan with oil until browned on all sides. This step adds a ton of flavor!
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onions and bell peppers in the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with the seared beef.
3. Season Generously: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Cook on Low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
5. Shred the Beef: Use two forks to shred the beef in the slow cooker.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches: Pile the beef mixture onto the hoagie rolls. Top with slices of provolone cheese.
7. Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for a minute or two, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can wrap the sandwiches in foil and let them sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
8. Serve and Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Cheesesteak

• Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a crucial layer of flavor.
• Use a sharp knife to thinly slice the beef. If the beef is partially frozen, it will be easier to slice.
• Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
• For extra flavor, add a beef bouillon cube or some beef broth to the slow cooker.
• Toast the rolls before assembling the sandwiches for added texture.

Variations on the Classic Philly Cheesesteak

• Pizza Cheesesteak: Add pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese.
• Mushroom Cheesesteak: Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling.
• Spicy Cheesesteak: Add jalapenos or hot sauce for a kick.
• Chicken Cheesesteak: Substitute the beef with thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs.

Conclusion

This slow cooker Philly Cheesesteak recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic street food favorite without all the fuss. The slow cooking process creates incredibly tender and flavorful beef, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to experience the taste of Philly, right in your own home!