Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Sandwich

1. 1

   Prepare vegetables

   Peel and thinly slice the yellow onion into half-moons (about 1/8" thick). Core, seed, and thinly slice the green bell pepper into strips if using. Set aside.

2. 2

   Prep the steak

   If your beef is not pre-sliced, freeze a 12 oz piece for 20–30 minutes until very firm, then slice across the grain as thinly as possible (aim for paper-thin). If using pre-sliced steak, separate slices so they don't clump.

3. 3

   Caramelize onions and peppers

   Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy frying pan over medium heat. When shimmering, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and beginning to brown, about 8–10 minutes. Add the sliced green pepper (if using) and continue cooking until softened and lightly caramelized, another 5–7 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and keep warm.

4. 4

   Cook the steak

   Increase the heat to medium-high and return the skillet to the stove. Add a small drizzle of oil if pan is dry. Add the thinly sliced beef in an even layer — work in two batches if needed to avoid steaming. Season with 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce. Let the beef sear undisturbed for about 30–45 seconds to develop color, then stir and break it up into shreds with a spatula. Cook until just cooked through, about 1–2 minutes total for very thin slices. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If using hot sauce or pickled peppers, stir them in now.

5. 5

   Combine beef and vegetables

   Return the caramelized onions and peppers to the pan and toss with the cooked beef to combine and warm through, about 30 seconds.

6. 6

   Melt cheese

   Lower heat to low. Arrange the provolone slices (and American slices if using) over the beef-and-veg mixture in the pan, overlapping as needed to cover. Cover the skillet with a lid for 1–2 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.

7. 7

   Assemble sandwiches

   While the cheese melts, warm the hoagie rolls: brush the insides with the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and toast them cut-side down in a separate skillet or under a broiler for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Using a spatula, scoop the cheesy beef and vegetable mixture and divide it between the two rolls. If desired, add extra pickled cherry peppers or hot sauce. Close sandwiches and press lightly.

8. 8

   Serve

   Cut sandwiches in half if desired and serve immediately while hot and cheesy.