Name: Philly Cheesesteak
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak (or sirloin); 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls; 8 slices Provolone cheese, or 1 cup Cheez Whiz, or 8 slices American cheese; 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional); 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional); 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Philly Cheesesteak recipe delivers all the authentic flavor of the original with simple ingredients and fast prep. It’s juicy, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re making it for game day, lunch, or a casual dinner, this sandwich is sure to be a hit. You can also customize it easily with your favorite cheese and toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Thinly sliced ribeye steak (or sirloin)
Hoagie rolls or sub rolls
Provolone cheese, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese
Onion, thinly sliced
Bell peppers (optional)
Mushrooms (optional)
Olive oil or butter
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions (and bell peppers or mushrooms, if using) and sauté until soft and caramelized. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add thinly sliced steak. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up slightly as it cooks.
Return the sautéed onions and optional vegetables to the pan and mix with the meat.
Lay slices of cheese over the meat mixture. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, then stir everything together.
Toast hoagie rolls if desired, then fill them with the hot meat and cheese mixture.
Serve immediately while hot and melty.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Cheese options: Use Provolone for mild flavor, Cheez Whiz for a classic Philly version, or American for creaminess.
Loaded version: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
Chicken cheesesteak: Use thinly sliced chicken breast instead of beef.
Spicy version: Add hot cherry peppers or sriracha for heat.
Low-carb: Serve the meat and cheese over a bed of sautéed onions or in lettuce wraps.

Storage/Reheating

For best results, store the meat and vegetables separately from the rolls to avoid sogginess. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then add cheese and cover until melted. Toast rolls separately and assemble just before serving.

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the steak and onions can become mushy.

FAQs

What cut of meat is best for Philly Cheesesteak?

Ribeye is traditional due to its tenderness and marbling, but sirloin or flank steak can also work well.

How do you slice the beef thin enough?

Freeze the steak for about 30–45 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut very thin slices.

What cheese is most authentic?

Cheez Whiz is the original Philly favorite, but Provolone and American cheese are also widely used.

Do you have to use hoagie rolls?

Hoagie rolls are traditional, but any sturdy sub roll or baguette-style bread will work.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can cook the filling in advance and reheat it, but assemble the sandwich just before serving for best texture.

Is it necessary to use onions?

Onions are traditional and add a lot of flavor, but you can skip them or replace with other vegetables.

What’s the best way to melt the cheese?

Place the cheese directly on the hot meat mixture in the skillet and cover with a lid to let it melt evenly.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes, assemble the sandwiches on a baking sheet and place in a hot oven for a few minutes to toast the bread and melt the cheese.

Are mushrooms traditional?

Not in the original version, but they’re a popular optional add-on in many variations.

How do I make it more authentic?

Use thinly sliced ribeye, Cheez Whiz, grilled onions, and Amoroso rolls for the most authentic Philly Cheesesteak experience.

Conclusion

The Philly Cheesesteak is an irresistible sandwich that’s as bold and satisfying as its hometown roots. With juicy beef, melty cheese, and soft, toasted rolls, it’s a meal that delivers big flavor in every bite. Whether you stick to tradition or add your own twist, this recipe brings a taste of Philadelphia to your kitchen—and it never disappoints.