How to Make Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks at Home

Do you want to learn how to make a delicious Philly cheesesteak? You don’t need to be a professional chef to create this classic American sandwich. All you need are some simple ingredients and a little bit of time in the kitchen.

Before you start, make sure you have the right ingredients. You’ll need sliced beef, onions, peppers, and cheese. You can use provolone, mozzarella, or even Cheez Whiz! Don’t forget to grab some hoagie rolls or sub rolls to complete your sandwich. Now, let’s get cooking and make some mouth-watering Philly cheesesteaks!

Section: How to Make Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks at Home

1. Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

The key to making the perfect Philly cheesesteak is choosing the right cut of meat. This sandwich is traditionally made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, which is packed with flavor and texture. However, you can also choose flank, sirloin, or even skirt steak, as long as it’s sliced thinly.

2. Slicing the Meat

Once you have your cut of meat, it’s important to slice it as thinly as possible. This can be done by freezing the meat for about 30 minutes, which makes it easier to slice. Use a sharp knife to cut the meat into thin pieces against the grain.

3. Sauteeing the Meat

Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add some oil, then add the sliced meat and season with salt and pepper. Cook the meat for a few minutes until it’s browned and cooked through.

4. Preparing the Rolls

A key element of a Philly cheesesteak is the roll. It should be soft and slightly chewy, but also sturdy enough to hold all the fillings. Traditional Amoroso rolls are often used, but any soft white roll can work. Toast the rolls lightly on both sides.

5. Adding the Cheese

Next, add your choice of cheese to the meat. The classic cheese for a Philly cheesesteak is Cheez Whiz, but you can also use provolone or American cheese. Add a few slices of the cheese to the hot meat, and let it melt.

6. Toppings

A Philly cheesesteak is traditionally served with onions and peppers. Slice a cup of onions and a cup of green bell pepper, and sauté them in a separate pan until they are soft and slightly caramelized. You can also add mushrooms, hot peppers, or any other toppings you prefer.

7. Assembling the Sandwich

To assemble your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, start with the bottom half of the roll. Add a layer of the sautéed onions and peppers on top. Then, add a generous portion of the meat and cheese mixture. Top with your additional toppings, if desired, and cover with the top of the roll.

8. Serving and Sides

Philly cheesesteaks are usually served hot and fresh, so make sure to serve them as soon as they’re ready. You can also pair them with classic sides like french fries or onion rings. Serve with ketchup or hot sauce if desired.

9. Tips and Tricks

To get the authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, use a spatula or metal scraper to chop the meat and cheese mixture while it’s cooking. This creates small pieces that are easier to eat and helps blend the flavors.

10. Making it Your Own

While traditional Philly cheesesteaks are made with specific ingredients, don’t be afraid to make it your own. Experiment with different cheeses, toppings, or sauces to create a Philly cheesesteak that is unique and perfect for your tastes.

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteaks

When it comes to making delicious Philly cheesesteaks, the ingredients that you use are just as important as the cooking process itself. With that in mind, here are the essential ingredients you need to prepare before you start cooking:

1. Steak

To make the classic Philly cheesesteak, you’ll need thinly sliced beef steak. We recommend using ribeye steak or flank steak, which have the perfect amount of fat and flavor to create a tender and juicy sandwich.

2. Cheese

Next up, you’ll need cheese to complete your cheesesteak. The traditional choice is American cheese, but you can also try provolone, whiz, or a combination of these for added depth of flavor.

3. Roll

A soft and crusty roll is the perfect base for your Philly cheesesteak. Many people swear by Amoroso’s hearth-baked rolls, but any soft roll will do.

4. Onion

Onions are a staple ingredient in Philly cheesesteaks. Sautéed onions add a sweet and savory flavor that complements the beef and cheese perfectly.

5. Bell Pepper

While not as traditional, some people like to add thinly sliced bell peppers to their Philly cheesesteaks for added crunch and flavor.

6. Olive Oil

You’ll need some olive oil to cook your steak and vegetables. Use a high-quality oil for the best flavor and health benefits.

7. Salt and Pepper

Don’t forget the basics! A little bit of salt and pepper go a long way in enhancing the flavor of your Philly cheesesteak.

8. Garlic Powder

Garlic powder is another optional ingredient that can add a subtle depth of flavor to your cheesesteak.

9. Worcestershire Sauce

A few dashes of Worcestershire sauce can give your Philly cheesesteak a tangy kick.

10. Hot Sauce

For those who like their food a little spicier, hot sauce is a great option. Add a few drops to your cheesesteak before serving for an extra zing.

The Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Ingredients

When it comes to making the perfect Philly cheesesteak, the ingredients play a major role in the final product. Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make a memorable Philadelphia-style cheesesteak.

The Steak

The steak you choose is the heart of your sandwich, so it’s essential to choose wisely. The traditional Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, but you can use other cuts too. Sirloin and flank steak are both great options. Whatever cut of meat you choose, make sure it’s sliced thin.

The Bread

The bread must be soft and chewy on the inside, but crispy on the outside. A classic Philly cheesesteak is served on an Amoroso roll, but you can also use hoagie rolls, Ciabatta buns, or other soft rolls.

The Cheese

Cheese is an essential component of any good Philly cheesesteak. The classic choice is American cheese, but you can also use provolone, Cheez Whiz, or a combination of different types of cheese for added flavor.

The Vegetables

While not essential, vegetables like onions and bell peppers are commonly used to add flavor to the cheesesteak. The onions are usually sautéed until caramelized, while the peppers are often grilled. You can customize your sandwich by adding additional veggies like mushrooms or jalapeño peppers.

The Extras

To create a perfect sandwich, you may want to add a little extra flavor with condiments like ketchup, hot sauce, mayo, or mustard. Some people also like to add spices like garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Remember that the key to making a perfect Philly cheesesteak is using high-quality ingredients. While the classic combination of ribeye steak, American cheese, and Amoroso rolls is always a winner, don’t be afraid to experiment with different meats, cheeses, and veggies to create your own signature sandwich. Just make sure to slice everything thin and cook it to perfection!

Wrap It Up!

Well, you did it! You learned how to make a delicious Philly Cheesesteak from scratch. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to try it again and again until you’ve perfected it. We hope you enjoyed reading this article and that it inspired you to try something new in the kitchen. Make sure to come back again soon for more exciting recipes and tips. Thanks for reading and happy cooking!