What is the secret to a Philly cheesesteak?

The secret is thinly sliced ribeye , high-heat cooking , and melting the cheese directly onto the steak before serving. Using the right bread (a soft hoagie roll) also makes a huge difference.

What is usually on a Philly cheesesteak?

A classic Philly cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese (Provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American), and sautéed onions , all served on a soft hoagie roll .

What sauce goes on a Philly cheesesteak?

Traditionally, a Philly cheesesteak doesn’t need sauce since the melted cheese adds plenty of flavor. However, some people like to add mayo, ketchup, mustard, or hot sauce for extra taste.

What were the original Philly cheesesteak ingredients?

The original Philly cheesesteak, created in the 1930s, included thinly sliced beef and grilled onions on a hoagie roll . The cheese was added later, with Provolone and Cheez Whiz becoming the most common options.

Do you put mayo on a Philly cheesesteak?

It’s not traditional, but some people do! A light spread of mayo on the hoagie roll can add a bit of creaminess and help enhance the flavors.

What is a good melting cheese for a Philly cheesesteak?

The best cheeses for melting on a Philly cheesesteak are: Provolone – Mild and creamy Cheez Whiz – Gooey and tangy American Cheese – Smooth and slightly salty Each cheese creates a slightly different taste, so it’s all about personal preference.

Philly Cheesesteak Recipe: How to Make the Best Cheesesteak at Home

Description

The Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich—it’s a legendary piece of Philadelphia’s food culture! Featuring thinly sliced ribeye steak, gooey melted cheese, and a soft hoagie roll, this sandwich is a must-try for any steak and cheese lover. Caramelized onions add a subtle sweetness, while a hot griddle ensures the perfect sear on the meat. Follow this step-by-step guide to make an authentic Philly cheesesteak at home with expert tips and delicious variations!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak & Cheese:

1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
4 slices Provolone cheese (or ½ cup Cheez Whiz or American cheese)

For the Toppings (Optional but Traditional):

1 medium onion, thinly sliced
½ cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)

For the Hoagie Roll:

2 hoagie rolls (Amoroso’s preferred or any Italian hoagie roll)
1 tbsp butter (for toasting, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Steak:
- Place the ribeye steak in the freezer for 30–40 minutes to firm it up.
- Once chilled, use a sharp knife to slice the steak into paper-thin strips.
Cook the Onions (and Optional Vegetables):
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown (about 5–7 minutes).
- If using bell peppers or mushrooms, add them to the pan and cook until softened.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Steak:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add another tbsp of oil.
- Spread the steak slices evenly in the pan and let them sear for 1–2 minutes before flipping.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Use a spatula to chop and mix the steak as it cooks (about 3–4 minutes total).
Melt the Cheese:
- If using Provolone or American cheese, place slices over the steak in the pan and allow them to melt.
- If using Cheez Whiz, heat it separately and drizzle over the steak before serving.
Assemble the Cheesesteak:
- Toast the hoagie rolls lightly if desired.
- Fill each roll with the steak and melted cheese mixture.
- Top with caramelized onions (and any additional toppings).
Serve and Enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Simply Savory
Cuisine: American (Philadelphia)

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: ~700 kcal
Fat: ~40g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Protein: ~45g