Let’s make a classic Philly cheesesteak. I’ll break it down in detail, including ingredients, preparation, and tips for that authentic taste.
Classic Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
Ingredients (serves 2–3)
For the sandwich:
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1 lb (450 g) ribeye steak, thinly sliced (freeze slightly to make slicing easier)
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2–3 hoagie rolls or long Italian rolls
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1 large onion, thinly sliced
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1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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4–6 slices of cheese (Cheez Whiz is classic, but provolone or American cheese works too)
Optional toppings:
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Sautéed mushrooms
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Green peppers
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Hot peppers or pickles
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
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Slice the ribeye as thin as possible. Partially freezing the meat for 15–20 minutes helps.
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Slice onions thinly.
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If using hoagie rolls, cut them open lengthwise but don’t slice all the way through, so they act like a pocket.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
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Heat 1 tablespoon oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté until they are soft and slightly caramelized, about 8–10 minutes.
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Remove onions from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
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In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed.
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Spread the steak out in an even layer (don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary).
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Season with salt and pepper.
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Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just cooked through. You want it tender, not overcooked.
Step 4: Combine Meat and Onions
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Return the onions to the skillet with the meat.
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Mix together and let them cook together for 1–2 minutes.
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Lay slices of cheese over the meat-onion mixture and let it melt. For Cheez Whiz, you can spread it directly onto the rolls instead.
Step 5: Toast the Rolls
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Lightly butter the rolls.
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Toast them in a separate pan or oven until slightly crispy and golden.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
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Scoop the cheesy steak-onion mixture into each roll.
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Add optional toppings if desired.
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Serve immediately—Philly cheesesteaks are best hot and melty!
Pro Tips for Authentic Philly Cheesesteak
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Cheese choice: Cheez Whiz is the traditional Philly way. Provolone is milder and gives a more gourmet touch.
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Meat: Ribeye is preferred because of its fat content and tenderness.
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Cooking: Avoid overcooking the steak; it should be tender and juicy.
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Rolls: Amoroso rolls are the authentic choice in Philadelphia, soft but with a slight chew.
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Onions: Some people like caramelized, some like lightly sautéed. Both work.
If you want, I can also give you a shortcut version for a faster weeknight Philly cheesesteak that’s almost as good as the real deal.