Beef Philly Cheesesteaks are a classic, flavorful sandwich loaded with thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, all piled into a soft hoagie roll. Inspired by the famous sandwich from Philadelphia, this version delivers all the delicious, savory goodness you expect from an authentic Philly cheesesteak. Perfect for a casual dinner, game day, or any time you’re craving a hearty, satisfying sandwich, these cheesesteaks are easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Philly Cheesesteaks are the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe doesn’t disappoint. The combination of tender, juicy beef, sweet sautéed onions, and gooey melted cheese is unbeatable. This dish is quick to make, yet full of flavor, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves hearty sandwiches. Whether you go with classic provolone or melt some cheese whiz for the ultimate cheesesteak experience, this recipe is sure to satisfy your craving for a Philly-style sandwich at home.

Beef Philly Cheesesteaks

Ingredients

1 lb beef (ribeye or flank steak, thinly sliced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
4 hoagie rolls or sandwich rolls
4 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese, cheese whiz, or your favorite cheese)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon olive oil or butter for toasting the rolls

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

Directions

Prepare the beef: If you haven’t already, thinly slice the beef against the grain. If the beef is a bit thick, you can freeze it for about 30 minutes to make slicing easier.
Cook the onions and bell pepper: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions (and bell peppers, if using) to the pan. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft and caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the beef: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil (or butter) and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the thinly sliced beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. If you like, you can add Worcestershire sauce to the beef while it cooks for extra flavor.
Combine beef and onions: Add the cooked onions and peppers back into the pan with the beef. Stir everything together, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly combined and coated.
Toast the rolls: While the beef mixture is cooking, slice the hoagie rolls in half. Heat a separate pan over medium heat and lightly toast the rolls with a small amount of butter or olive oil until golden and crispy.
Assemble the cheesesteaks: Once the rolls are toasted, spoon the beef mixture onto each hoagie roll. Place a slice of provolone cheese (or your cheese of choice) over the top of the beef, allowing it to melt. For extra melty cheese, you can briefly cover the pan with a lid or place the sandwiches under the broiler for a minute.
Serve: Serve the cheesesteaks immediately with a side of chips, fries, or a pickle for the perfect meal.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Cheese options: While provolone cheese is traditional, you can use American cheese, cheese whiz, or even Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
Add mushrooms: For extra flavor, sauté some mushrooms with the onions and peppers.
Spicy version: Add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian version: Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms or a veggie burger patty for a vegetarian Philly cheesesteak.
Extra toppings: Top your cheesesteaks with extra condiments like mayonnaise, mustard, or pickled hot peppers.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Leftover beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the beef mixture in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can reassemble the sandwiches and toast the rolls again before serving, or serve the beef mixture over rice or on a salad for a quick meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of beef?

Yes, ribeye is the traditional cut for Philly cheesesteaks, but flank steak, sirloin, or even ground beef can work if you prefer a leaner cut.

2. How can I make the cheesesteaks spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños to the beef or use spicy mustard or hot sauce as a topping for a little heat.

3. Can I use a different kind of roll?

While hoagie rolls are traditional, you can use any soft sandwich roll or even a baguette for a crunchy version.

4. Can I make these cheesesteaks ahead of time?

You can prepare the beef and veggie mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture and assemble the sandwiches.

5. Can I make this dish without cheese?

While cheese is a classic part of the Philly cheesesteak, you can skip it or use a dairy-free cheese substitute to make it dairy-free.

6. What can I serve with Philly cheesesteaks?

These sandwiches pair perfectly with classic sides like crispy French fries, potato chips, or a fresh salad.

7. Can I grill the beef instead of cooking it on the stovetop?

Yes, you can grill the beef for added flavor. Just be sure to slice it thinly before grilling, or use a grill pan on the stovetop.

8. How do I make this recipe for a larger crowd?

To make more servings, simply double or triple the ingredients, and cook in batches if needed. You can also assemble the cheesesteaks on a large platter for easier serving.

9. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and even spinach make great additions to your Philly cheesesteak for more flavor and nutrition.

10. How can I make this dish healthier?

To make a healthier version, you can use lean ground beef or turkey, swap the hoagie rolls for a whole grain option, and use less cheese or opt for a lighter cheese like part-skim mozzarella.

Conclusion

Beef Philly Cheesesteaks are a satisfying, indulgent sandwich that brings the iconic flavors of Philly to your kitchen. With juicy beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese piled into a soft roll, these cheesesteaks are sure to become a favorite. They’re easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, lunch, or a party, these cheesesteaks are a guaranteed hit!