Authentic Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe
Philly cheesesteaks are more than just a sandwich; they’re a culinary tradition that hails from the heart of Philadelphia. Having grown up in Philly, I can tell you that there’s nothing quite like the taste of an authentic Philly cheesesteak. While many places across the country claim to make them, the truth is that the original sandwich is something special — and it’s all about the ingredients and preparation. If you want to make it just the way it was intended, stick to the following recipe. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Description:
This Philly cheesesteak sandwich recipe is as authentic as it gets. Born and raised in Philadelphia, I’ve tasted countless variations over the years, but none compare to the original. The key here is the use of extra-virgin olive oil and provolone cheese, not the processed Cheez Whiz that many people mistakenly associate with this beloved sandwich. Additionally, using thinly sliced deli roast beef or rib-eye steak, freshly shaved on an electric slicer, ensures the perfect texture and flavor.
Prep Time: 7 Minutes
Cook Time: 13 Minutes
Total Time: 20 Minutes
Recipe Category: Lunch/Snacks
Serving Size: 2 servings
Calories per Serving: 965.3 kcal
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Deli roast beef | 1 lb |
| Green bell pepper | 1/2, sliced |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Provolone cheese | 1 slice |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Ketchup | 1/2 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information per Serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 965.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 39.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 22 g |
| Cholesterol | 133.1 mg |
| Sodium | 3143.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 86.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 4.2 g |
| Protein | 63.5 g |
Instructions:
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Preheat the Griddle or Pan: Start by heating a large griddle or sauté pan over medium-high heat. It’s important to ensure the griddle is hot before adding the oil to achieve that perfect sizzle.
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Prepare the Griddle: Once the griddle is heated, drizzle the bottom with extra virgin olive oil, making sure to cover it evenly. The olive oil not only helps cook the vegetables but also imparts a rich, flavorful base.
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Caramelize the Vegetables: Add the sliced green bell pepper and onions to the pan. Stir them occasionally, allowing them to cook and caramelize for about 6 to 8 minutes. This slow caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness of the peppers and onions, making them the perfect complement to the savory beef.
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Add Garlic and Season: Add the minced garlic to the vegetables, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook everything together for another 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance.
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Cook the Meat: Push the cooked vegetables off to one side of the griddle. Add the thinly sliced deli roast beef or rib-eye steak to the hot side of the griddle. Cook the meat, flipping it continuously and using two spatulas to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is no longer pink — this should take about 2 minutes.
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Mix Meat and Vegetables: Once the meat is cooked, mix it together with the caramelized onions and bell peppers. This combination ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
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Melt the Cheese: Divide the mixture into two portions and place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each. Allow the cheese to melt into the meat and vegetable mixture, creating a creamy, indulgent layer.
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Prepare the Bread: If you’re using Italian or French bread, cut each loaf in half crosswise. Then, slice each half lengthwise, creating the perfect sandwich base. Hollow out a small portion of the bread’s soft interior to make space for the fillings.
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Assemble the Sandwiches: Place the bread cut side down onto the griddle to toast it slightly. Once the cheese has melted, flip the sandwiches over, using a spatula to carefully transfer them. If desired, add a topping like marinara sauce or a drizzle of ketchup for an extra layer of flavor.
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Serve: Cut each sandwich in half and serve immediately, allowing the hot cheese and juicy beef to create a mouthwatering, authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.
Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak:
- Bread Choice: Opt for a crusty Italian or French bread that has a soft, airy interior. A baguette or hoagie roll works best to hold the sandwich together without overpowering the fillings.
- Meat Selection: The best Philly cheesesteaks use rib-eye steak that is thinly sliced. If you’re using deli roast beef, make sure it’s freshly sliced to maintain texture and flavor.
- Cheese: Provolone is the traditional choice, but you can also use mozzarella for a creamier texture. Avoid Cheez Whiz if you want to stick to the authentic Philly style.
Variations and Additions:
- Add Mushrooms: For an extra burst of umami flavor, sauté mushrooms alongside the onions and peppers.
- Peppers: If you like a bit of heat, add some hot peppers or pepperoncini to the mix.
- Sauces: While ketchup is a traditional option, you can also try topping your Philly cheesesteak with a bit of hot sauce, BBQ sauce, or a drizzle of mayonnaise for different flavor profiles.
Final Thoughts:
This Philly cheesesteak sandwich recipe is a true reflection of the traditional flavors that have made it a staple in Philadelphia since the 1940s. The combination of tender roast beef, caramelized onions and bell peppers, melted provolone, and a toasted sandwich roll creates the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and salty. Follow this recipe exactly as written, and you’ll have an authentic Philly cheesesteak that transports you straight to the streets of South Philly.
Enjoy your sandwich with a side of crispy fries or a cold soda for a complete Philly-inspired meal!
