There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, cheesy, and savory Philly cheese steak sandwich. It’s a classic American comfort food that originated in Philadelphia but has found its way into hearts and kitchens around the country. Whether you’re looking to recreate that authentic Philly experience or want to whip up a quick, satisfying meal, this Philly cheese steak sandwich recipe will deliver big flavor with minimal fuss.
In this article, you’ll discover how to make the ultimate Philly cheese steak at home. We’ll cover the history, ingredient tips, step-by-step instructions, variations, and side dish ideas to turn your sandwich into a complete meal.
What Is a Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich?
A Philly cheese steak sandwich is a hot sandwich made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and a crusty hoagie roll. The sandwich often includes sautéed onions and may feature optional additions like bell peppers or mushrooms. Traditionally, Cheez Whiz was used, but many recipes now call for provolone or American cheese.
This sandwich is all about simplicity and bold flavor. It’s juicy, cheesy, and comforting—everything you want in a sandwich.
Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich Recipe
- Authentic taste – Inspired by classic Philadelphia street vendors.
- Quick to make – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable – Choose your favorite cheese and add veggies to your liking.
- Crowd-pleasing – Perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or backyard cookouts.
Ingredients for the Best Philly Cheese Steak
Here’s what you’ll need for an authentic Philly cheese steak sandwich recipe:
Meat:
- 1½ pounds ribeye steak, thinly sliced (freeze for 30 minutes before slicing for best results)
Veggies:
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper (optional), thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms (optional), sliced
Cheese:
- 4–6 slices provolone cheese, American cheese, or Cheez Whiz (your choice)
Bread:
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls, sliced lengthwise (but not all the way through) and lightly toasted
Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra umami)
How to Make a Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Place the ribeye steak in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm it up. This makes it easier to slice thinly. Once firm, use a sharp knife to slice the steak into paper-thin strips.
Pro Tip: A mandoline slicer can help achieve ultra-thin slices if you don’t have a very sharp knife.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions (and optional peppers/mushrooms). Sauté until soft and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and increase the heat to high. Add the sliced steak in a single layer. Let it sear for a minute or two before stirring. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If using, splash in some Worcestershire sauce.
Cook until the meat is browned and tender—about 4–5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
With the steak still in the pan, reduce the heat to low. Return the cooked veggies and stir everything together.
Place the cheese slices over the top of the meat and veggie mixture. Cover with a lid (or tent with foil) and let the cheese melt for 1–2 minutes.
Once melted, stir gently to combine the cheesy goodness with the steak mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Lightly toast the hoagie rolls if desired. Fill each roll with a generous portion of the cheesy steak and veggie mixture.
Serve hot and enjoy immediately!
Variations on the Classic Recipe
The classic Philly cheese steak sandwich recipe is delicious as-is, but you can easily switch things up:
1. Cheese Options
- Provolone: Creamy and mild – great melting quality.
- American cheese: Smooth and gooey.
- Cheez Whiz: The original Philly classic for a bold, processed cheese flavor.
2. Bread Substitutes
- Use French bread, sub rolls, or even ciabatta.
- For a low-carb version, try stuffing the steak mixture in bell peppers or lettuce wraps.
3. Extra Toppings
- Banana peppers or jalapeños for heat.
- A fried egg on top for extra indulgence.
- Swap ribeye for sirloin or even shaved chicken for a lighter option.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich
- Use quality steak: Ribeye is preferred for its marbling and tenderness.
- Slice meat thinly: The thinner, the better—it cooks faster and absorbs more flavor.
- Toast the rolls: A quick toast adds crunch and keeps the bread from getting soggy.
- Don’t overload: Keep the fillings balanced for easy eating and classic flavor.
What to Serve with Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches
Pair your sandwich with one or more of these sides for a complete meal:
- Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries
- Onion rings
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Pickles
- A cold beer or soda
Looking for a healthier option? Try a simple green salad with vinaigrette.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you’ve made a big batch or have leftover filling, here’s how to store and reheat:
Storage:
- Let the steak mixture cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Warm the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until hot.
- Add a fresh slice of cheese on top and re-melt.
- Toast new rolls before assembling.
Note: The assembled sandwich is best eaten fresh. Reheat the filling separately to avoid soggy bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of meat is best for Philly cheese steak?
Ribeye steak is the traditional choice because it’s tender and flavorful. Sirloin or skirt steak can also work if thinly sliced.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the steak and veggie mixture ahead and reheat when ready to serve. Add fresh cheese and bread for best results.
What cheese do real Philly cheese steaks use?
In Philadelphia, Cheez Whiz, provolone, and American cheese are all commonly used. It comes down to personal preference.
Are Philly cheese steaks spicy?
Not traditionally. But you can add jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese if you like heat.
Final Thoughts
A great Philly cheese steak sandwich recipe is all about high-quality ingredients, thin-sliced meat, melty cheese, and a crusty roll. Whether you go traditional or put your own spin on it, this sandwich never fails to satisfy.
Make it for a quick weeknight dinner, a backyard gathering, or a game-day treat—and don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds!