Authentic Philadelphia Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of Philadelphia with this mouthwatering cheesesteak recipe. Juicy, thinly-sliced ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and gooey melted provolone cheese come together in a soft yet sturdy hoagie roll for the perfect sandwich.
This classic Philly staple has been a source of passionate debate among locals for generations. While everyone has their favorite spot, making your own at home allows you to customize it to your liking. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a cheesesteak that rivals the best sandwich shops in the City of Brotherly Love.
The Art of Cheesesteak-Making
The key to a great cheesesteak lies in three simple elements: high-quality beef, the right cheese, and the perfect bread. When these components come together harmoniously, you’ll understand why this humble sandwich has become a culinary icon.
Our recipe focuses on traditional techniques and ingredients, with a few chef-inspired touches to elevate your homemade cheesesteak experience. Whether you’re a Philly native craving a taste of home or a curious food lover wanting to try something new, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Mastering the Beef
The heart of any cheesesteak is the beef. We recommend using ribeye for its rich flavor and tender texture. To achieve those signature thin slices without a deli slicer, try these methods:
- Partially freeze the beef for about an hour, then use a sharp knife to slice it as thinly as possible against the grain.
- Look for pre-sliced ribeye at specialty grocery stores or Asian markets.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to chop the beef slightly before cooking to mimic the texture of a traditional Philly cheesesteak.
Cheese Choices
While the cheese debate rages on in Philadelphia, we’ve opted for provolone in this recipe. Its sharp, salty flavor complements the rich beef perfectly. For an extra flavor boost, we’ve included a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese – a chef’s secret that takes this sandwich to the next level.
The Perfect Roll
A true Philly cheesesteak demands a roll that’s both soft and sturdy. Look for fresh Italian hoagie rolls with a slightly crispy crust and a chewy interior. The bread should be able to hold up to the juicy filling without falling apart.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (454g) boneless ribeye steak or skirt steak, or pre-sliced ribeye
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion (4 ounces; 114g), diced
- 8 thin slices provolone cheese (about 6 ounces; 160g)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Two 7- to 8-inch Italian hoagie rolls, split lengthwise
Instructions
- If using whole steak, freeze for 1 hour until firm. Slice thinly against the grain, then chop coarsely.
- Heat a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and heat until smoking.
- Add meat and onions in an even layer. Cook without stirring until browned, 4-6 minutes. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until meat is no longer pink, 2-4 minutes.
- Stir in torn provolone, Parmesan (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until cheese melts, 1-2 minutes.
- Divide mixture into 2 portions. Top each with 2 slices of provolone. Cover and let cheese melt, about 1 minute.
- Place rolls cut-side down over the meat. Flip the filled sandwiches using a spatula.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Philly cheesesteak!
Pro Tips
- For authentic flavor, cook your cheesesteaks on a flat griddle or plancha if available.
- Experiment with different cheese options like Cheese Whiz or American cheese for variety.
- This recipe can be easily halved or doubled to serve your desired number of guests.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition Facts (per serving) | |
---|---|
1589 | Calories |
97g | Fat |
63g | Carbs |
116g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
---|---|
Servings: 2 | |
Amount per serving | |
Calories | 1589 |
% Daily Value* | |
Total Fat 97g | 124% |
Saturated Fat 43g | 216% |
Cholesterol 347mg | 116% |
Sodium 3071mg | 134% |
Total Carbohydrate 63g | 23% |
Dietary Fiber 3g | 12% |
Total Sugars 11g | |
Protein 116g | |
Vitamin C 10mg | 52% |
Calcium 1188mg | 91% |
Iron 11mg | 62% |
Potassium 1397mg | 30% |
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. |