Name: Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb rib-eye steak, thinly sliced; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 hoagie rolls; 8 oz provolone cheese or American cheese slices; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or hot sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak is the perfect balance of savory beef, gooey cheese, and tender onions. It’s incredibly easy to make and takes minimal time, yet it still delivers that authentic Philly flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a sandwich that’s as satisfying as the ones served in the heart of Philadelphia. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can adjust it to your taste – whether that’s extra cheese, more peppers, or a different type of cheese altogether. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

1 lb rib-eye steak, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 hoagie rolls
8 oz provolone cheese or American cheese slices
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or hot sauce

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until they become caramelized and soft. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and increase the heat to high. Add the thinly sliced rib-eye steak, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
Once the steak is cooked, return the caramelized onions to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat for another minute.
Split the hoagie rolls and layer each one with the steak and onion mixture. Top with 2 slices of cheese per sandwich and place the sandwich under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: While provolone and American cheese are the classics, you can swap in other types of cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or even cheese whiz for a truly authentic Philly experience.
Add Peppers: Sautéed bell peppers can be added to the mix for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Mushrooms: For a savory twist, sauté mushrooms with the onions before adding them to the steak.

Storage/Reheating

If you have leftovers, you can store the Philly Cheesesteaks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat them in a skillet over low heat, covered with foil to prevent the bread from getting too hard. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of steak?

Yes! While rib-eye is the most traditional choice, you can also use flank steak or sirloin. Just be sure to slice it very thinly for the best texture.

2. How do I slice the steak thinly?

To make it easier to slice thinly, freeze the steak for 30-45 minutes until firm. Then use a sharp knife to cut against the grain into thin strips.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this Philly Cheesesteak gluten-free by using gluten-free hoagie rolls or any other suitable bread alternative.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the sandwich?

Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra veggies. Just sauté them along with the onions.

5. Can I freeze the Philly Cheesesteak filling?

Yes, you can freeze the steak and onion mixture for up to 2 months. Just reheat it when you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.

6. What type of bread is best for a Philly Cheesesteak?

A soft hoagie roll is ideal, but you can also use sub rolls, baguettes, or any other soft, hearty bread that will hold up to the steak and cheese.

7. Can I use cheese whiz instead of provolone?

Yes! Cheese whiz is often used in traditional Philly Cheesesteaks for a creamy, melty texture. It’s a great option if you’re aiming for an authentic taste.

8. Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add hot peppers or drizzle some hot sauce to kick up the heat if you like a little spice.

9. How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using leaner cuts of beef like flank steak, and opt for whole grain rolls instead of white hoagie rolls. You can also skip the cheese for a lower-calorie version.

10. How can I make the sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prepare the steak and onions ahead of time, then assemble and toast the sandwiches just before serving. This makes it easy to have everything ready for a quick meal.

Conclusion

This Easy Classic Philly Cheesesteak brings the taste of Philly straight to your kitchen with minimal effort. Perfect for any time you’re craving a flavorful, hearty meal, this sandwich is a winner every time. Whether you enjoy it with extra cheese, peppers, or mushrooms, you can customize it to your liking while still keeping the classic flavors intact. Enjoy!