Easy Philly Cheesesteak

I. Introduction

A. What is a Philly Cheesesteak?

A Philly Cheesesteak is a classic American sandwich originating from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It typically consists of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, served on a long, crusty roll.

B. Brief history and origin

The Philly Cheesesteak is said to have been invented by Pat and Harry Olivieri in the early 20th century. Originally sold from a hot dog stand, the sandwich quickly gained popularity and became a staple of Philadelphia cuisine.

II. Ingredients

To make an easy Philly Cheesesteak, you will need:

• Thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin)
• Hoagie rolls or sub rolls
• Provolone cheese (traditional) or American cheese
• Onion
• Bell peppers (optional)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

III. Preparation

A. Preparing the ingredients

1. Thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. Slice the onions and bell peppers (if using) into thin strips.

B. Cooking the filling

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until they are soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced beef and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

IV. Assembling the sandwich

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise, without cutting all the way through.
3. Place a layer of cooked beef onto each hoagie roll.
4. Top the beef with a generous amount of sautéed onions and bell peppers.
5. Place slices of provolone or American cheese on top of the onions and bell peppers.
6. Wrap the assembled sandwiches in aluminum foil and place them in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are warm.

V. Serving Suggestions

Serve the easy Philly Cheesesteaks hot with your favorite condiments and sides, such as ketchup, mustard, pickles, or French fries. They pair well with a crisp salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.

VI. Variations

• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
• Add mushrooms to the sautéed onions and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Substitute the beef with thinly sliced chicken or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

VII. Tips and Tricks

• To make slicing the beef easier, partially freeze it for about 30 minutes before slicing.
• Choose a high-quality roll with a crusty exterior and soft interior to hold up to the hearty filling.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the beef to ensure it browns evenly and doesn’t steam.

VIII. Health Considerations

While delicious, Philly Cheesesteaks can be high in calories and fat due to the beef and cheese. To make them healthier, opt for lean cuts of beef, use less cheese, and load up on veggies like onions and bell peppers for added nutrition.

IX. Conclusion

Easy Philly Cheesesteaks are a delicious and satisfying sandwich that brings together the flavors of tender beef, melted cheese, and savory onions. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate this iconic dish at home and enjoy a taste of Philadelphia wherever you are.

X. FAQs

1. What type of beef is best for Philly Cheesesteak? Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak is traditionally used for Philly Cheesesteaks due to their tenderness and flavor.
2. Can I make Philly Cheesesteaks ahead of time? While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches when ready to eat.
3. What is the difference between provolone and American cheese in a Philly Cheesesteak? Provolone cheese has a sharper flavor and melts beautifully, while American cheese is creamier and melts into a smoother consistency.
4. Can I make a vegetarian version of Philly Cheesesteak? Yes, you can substitute the beef with thinly sliced mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
5. What other toppings can I add to my Philly Cheesesteak? Some popular toppings include hot peppers, pickles, roasted red peppers, or even a dollop of marinara sauce for an Italian twist.