Philly Cheesesteak

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers the classic Philly experience: juicy, ultra-thin beef shavings with rich marinade, lightly charred onions, and perfectly melted cheese. Whether you’re serving game day guests or family dinners, it’s a crowd‑pleaser that’s easy to throw together with simple prep and quick cook times.

Ingredients

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

• 2 lbs beef (partially frozen bottom-round roast)

• 1 onion

• 6 footlong bread rolls

• 10 slices provolone cheese

Beef Marinade

• ½ Tbsp baking soda

• 2 Tbsp vinegar

• 1 Tbsp sugar

• 1 Tbsp garlic salt

• ½ Tbsp onion powder

• 2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 cups water

• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Directions

1. Thinly shave partially frozen beef using a mandoline slicer (or a sharp knife).

2. Combine beef shavings and marinade ingredients. Let sit for 20 minutes.

3. Preheat griddle on high. Dice the onion.

4. Sauté onions in 1 Tbsp oil for about 1 minute until charred but with some white bits. Remove and set aside.

5. Slice rolls ¾ through and toast face‑down on the hot griddle for 15–30 seconds. Set toasted rolls aside.

6. Drain (don’t rinse) the beef. Cook in 3 Tbsp oil over high heat until foam disappears and beef is browned—around 10 minutes.

7. Turn off the heat. Divide beef into six portions, top each with provolone, and let melt (1–2 minutes).

8. Scoop cheese‑topped beef into rolls, top with onions, and serve. Ketchup or horseradish sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

• Makes: 6 long sandwiches

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Marinade time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 24 minutes

• Total time: 54 minutes

Variations

• Swap provolone for Cheez Whiz or American cheese for a richer melt.

• Add green peppers or mushrooms by sautéing with the onions.

• Use hoagie rolls, baguettes, or brioche for different bread textures.

• Spice it up with hot peppers, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store beef filling and onions separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Do not refrigerate assembled sandwiches—they’ll get soggy.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked beef filling (without bread) in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, then reassemble in toasted rolls.

FAQs

1. Can I slice the beef without a mandoline?

Yes! A sharp knife works fine—chill the meat partially to make thin slicing easier.

2. Why use baking soda in the marinade?

It helps tenderize the beef by breaking down proteins, giving ultra‑tender shavings.

3. Can I skip the marinade?

Technically yes, but the marinade adds great flavor and tenderness—highly recommended.

4. What’s the best substitute for footlong rolls?

Hoagie rolls, baguettes, or even buns can work—just adjust quantities accordingly.

5. Is it better to use Cheez Whiz or provolone?

That’s a classic Philly debate. Provolone gives a clean melt, Cheez Whiz is creamier. Choose based on your preference.

6. How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Toast the rolls face‑down on the griddle before filling—they develop a sturdy base that resists moisture.

7. Can I add peppers or mushrooms?

Absolutely! Sauté peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra flavor and veggies.

8. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—prepare the beef and onions in advance and reheat before serving. Assemble sandwiches just before eating.

9. What’s the shelf life of leftover meat?

Up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container, or up to 2 months in the freezer.

10. How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat until hot, then fill fresh toasted rolls.

Conclusion

This Philly Cheesesteak recipe hits all the right notes: tender, flavorful beef, melty cheese, charred onions, and perfectly toasted rolls. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, enjoying a weekend treat, or spicing up a weeknight dinner. Follow the tips above for variations, storage, and reheating—and you’ll have slices of Philly heaven anytime you crave it.

Print