Discover the Authentic Taste of Philadelphia: A Classic Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Photo bySimply Homemade Recipes

In Philadelphia, the Philly Cheesesteak is not just a sandwich; it's a cultural experience. From street food vendors to upscale restaurants, this iconic dish is beloved by locals and visitors alike. The classic combination of tender ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and melty provolone cheese served on a soft hoagie roll defines Philadelphia’s culinary landscape. If you can't make it to the City of Brotherly Love, don't worry—you can bring the authentic taste of a Philly Cheesesteak into your own kitchen with this simple yet delicious recipe.

The Essence of a Philly Cheesesteak A true Philly Cheesesteak is all about simplicity and quality ingredients. Traditionally made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, the sandwich boasts a perfect balance of savory flavors and textures. The juicy meat, caramelized onions, and melted provolone come together in a harmony that has been celebrated for decades. Whether you add bell peppers or mayo is up to you, but the heart of the sandwich lies in its perfectly cooked steak and soft hoagie roll. It's comfort food at its best—straightforward, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible.

Recipe: Homemade Philly Cheesesteak Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp canola oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1/2 pound ribeye steak, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper (optional), sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 soft hoagie rolls
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
• 4 slices provolone cheese

Instructions:

1. Start by heating one tablespoon of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers (if using), seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 6-8 minutes until they soften and develop a caramelized color. Transfer them to a plate once done.
2. In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of canola oil and turn the heat to high. Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about a minute until the meat browns.
3. Lower the heat to medium and return the onions and peppers to the pan, mixing them with the steak.
4. Split the hoagie rolls and fill them generously with the steak mixture. Top each sandwich with two slices of provolone cheese.
5. If desired, place the sandwiches under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
6. Optionally, spread mayonnaise on the other half of the hoagie rolls before closing the sandwich.

The Final Touch There’s something about biting into a warm, melty Philly Cheesesteak that takes you right to the streets of Philadelphia. The tender steak, combined with the sweet onions and gooey cheese, creates a sandwich that's unforgettable. Whether you enjoy it with or without bell peppers or mayo, this homemade version captures the essence of Philly in every bite. So, next time you're craving a piece of Philadelphia, try making this simple yet flavorful sandwich at home. It's the perfect meal to share with family or friends and is guaranteed to satisfy.

For an authentic Philly Cheesesteak experience, it's all about the right ingredients and techniques that capture the heart of Philadelphia. The sandwich features thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and melted provolone cheese, all nestled inside a soft hoagie roll. This combination of savory, tender steak with gooey cheese is the hallmark of a classic Philly Cheesesteak.

Key Tips for a Great Philly Cheesesteak:

• Meat: Ribeye is the traditional cut used for its balance of tenderness and flavor. Freezing the steak for about 30 minutes before slicing ensures ultra-thin slices​(Serious Eats)​(Natasha's Kitchen).
• Bread: Authentic cheesesteaks are served on Amoroso’s rolls or similar soft hoagie rolls. The bread should have a slightly crispy exterior with a soft, chewy interior​(Serious Eats)​(The Stay At Home Chef).
• Cheese: Provolone is the go-to for most, though some prefer Cheez Whiz or American cheese. Melting the cheese directly over the steak in the pan ensures it integrates perfectly into the sandwich​(Alphafoodie)​(Allrecipes).
• Vegetables: Caramelized onions are a must, adding sweetness to balance the savory meat. Green bell peppers are optional but can add a nice texture and flavor contrast​(Natasha's Kitchen).

This sandwich is more than just a meal—it's a Philly institution, and making it at home brings a piece of that tradition right to your kitchen.