Philly Cheesesteak: Ultimate Comfort Food Combinations

The Philly cheesesteak is a classic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia. It is typically made with thinly sliced steak, sautéed peppers, onions, and melted cheese, all loaded onto a toasted hoagie roll. While there are many variations of the Philly cheesesteak, the most traditional combination includes ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and provolone cheese. The sandwich is a popular choice for game days and get-togethers, as it can be made in large batches and tailored to individual preferences. In this discussion, we will explore the various ingredients and cooking techniques used to create the perfect Philly cheesesteak, along with some creative serving suggestions.

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Philly cheesesteak sandwich

Ingredients

• Hoagie rolls
• Butter
• Steak ?(ribeye, skirt steak, sirloin, flank steak, or flap meat)
• Provolone cheese
• Mushrooms
• Bell peppers
• Onions
• Mayonnaise
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper
• Oil

Instructions

• Slice the steak into thin pieces. This is easier if the steak has been in the freezer for about 20 to 30 minutes.
• Heat a large skillet on medium heat and add oil.
• Add the steak to the skillet and cook until browned.
• Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
• Add butter and more oil to the skillet.
• Add the sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions to the skillet and cook until tender.
• Put the steak back into the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
• Add the cheese and stir until melted.
• Spread mayonnaise and minced garlic on the hoagie rolls.
• Fill the rolls with the steak and vegetables.
• Heat the sandwiches in the oven until the cheese is melted.

Variations

You can also add other ingredients to your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, such as lettuce, tomato, jalapeños, or Parmesan cheese. Instead of using provolone cheese, you can use mozzarella, jack, or horseradish cheddar.

Cheeses to use

The most popular cheese to use in a Philly cheesesteak is mild provolone. Its sharp bite and melty cheese-pull make it a favourite for many. Some recipes also add a small amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra kick of flavour.

A popular alternative is white American cheese, while some recipes also suggest mozzarella cheese. If you're looking for the classic Philly cheesesteak experience, Cheez Whiz—a shelf-stable cheese product sold in jars—is a popular option. It has a completely creamy, almost nacho cheese-like texture, which pairs well with the sharper provolone.

For a more Swiss flavour profile, you could try using Swiss cheese instead of provolone.

Meat options

The classic Philly cheesesteak is made with ribeye steak, which is tender when cooked. However, ribeye can be expensive, so other options include skirt steak, flank steak, and top sirloin. When choosing a cut of meat, it's important to select something that is tender and has some marbled fat. Tougher cuts of meat like brisket should be avoided as they will be chewy in the final sandwich.

If you're looking for a quick and easy option, skirt steak is a good choice as it has a thin profile and an open-grained texture that makes it easy to slice. Another option is to ask your butcher to slice the beef for you. This way, you can get those super-thin slices that are characteristic of a classic Philly cheesesteak.

For those who want to slice the meat themselves, partially freezing the steak for about an hour can make the slicing process much easier. This technique can be used with cuts like ribeye, which can be tricky to slice when fresh due to their thick profile.

While steak is the most traditional choice for Philly cheesesteak, ground beef can also be used as a substitute. This option might be more suitable for those on a budget or looking for a quicker cooking time.

No matter which cut of meat you choose, the key to a great Philly cheesesteak is to slice the beef as thinly as possible. This ensures that the meat cooks evenly and melts in your mouth with every bite.

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Cooking methods

Philly cheesesteaks are a fun, filling meal that can be made in a variety of ways. The classic version consists of thinly sliced steak, onions, peppers, and cheese, all served in a hoagie roll. Here are some methods for preparing this delicious sandwich:

Slicing the Steak

Philly cheesesteaks are traditionally made with thinly sliced steak. To achieve this, it is recommended to use a cut of beef that does not require a long cooking time to become tender, such as ribeye, skirt steak, or sirloin. For easier slicing, you can partially freeze the steak for about an hour until it is firm but not so hard that it damages your knife.

Cooking the Steak

The steak can be cooked in a large skillet on the stovetop, a flat cooktop, or a griddle. Some recipes suggest chopping up the steak in the pan with a spatula as it cooks, but this may not be practical for home cooking. Instead, you can use a knife to break up the steak before adding it to the pan. Cook the steak until it is done to your liking, and then remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Cooking the Vegetables

The onions and peppers are typically cooked separately from the steak, as they require a longer cooking time. Add butter and cooking oil to your skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced peppers and onions and cook until they are tender and caramelized. Some recipes also include mushrooms, which can be cooked at this stage.

Melting the Cheese

The classic cheese for Philly cheesesteaks is provolone, but other options include mozzarella, white American cheese, or Cheez Whiz. To melt the cheese, return the steak to the pan and add the cheese on top. Cover the pan and cook over medium heat until the cheese is melted, about 4 to 5 minutes. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavour.

Assembling the Sandwich

Toast the hoagie rolls in the oven until golden brown. Spread the inside of the rolls with butter or mayonnaise, if desired. Fill each roll with the steak and cheese mixture, topping it with the cooked peppers and onions. Serve with your favourite toppings and sides, such as shredded lettuce, tomato, jalapeños, or crispy fries.

Philly cheesesteaks are a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to your taste. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and cooking methods to create your perfect sandwich!

Side dishes

Philly cheesesteaks are a fun, filling meal that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for side dishes to accompany your Philly cheesesteak:

Fries or Chips

Crispy fries or chips are a classic side dish for Philly cheesesteaks. You can make them in an air fryer, bake them in the oven, or try sweet potato fries for a healthier option.

Onion Rings

Onion rings are another delicious option that pairs well with the flavours of the cheesesteak. You can make them at home or buy them frozen and fry them up for a crispy treat.

Baked Potato Wedges

For a heartier side dish, baked potato wedges are a great choice. Cut potatoes into wedges, toss them in oil and your favourite spices, and bake them in the oven until crispy.

Salad

A fresh salad can help balance out the richness of the cheesesteak. Try a simple garden salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favourite dressing.

Pasta

If you're looking for a more substantial side dish, try serving your Philly cheesesteak with pasta. You can top the pasta with the cheesesteak filling or stuff the mixture into pasta shells for a unique twist.

Frequently asked questions