Classic Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Instructions:

Preparing the Steak Filling:

1. Slice the Ribeye Thin:
   • To start, ensure your ribeye steak is thinly sliced. If you’re doing this yourself, partially freeze the meat to make slicing easier. Alternatively, ask your butcher to do it for you. Thin slices are essential for the signature texture of a Philly Cheesesteak.
2. Sauté the Onions:
   • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
   • Add the vegetable oil and let it heat up, then add the thinly sliced onions.
   • Sauté the onions until they become translucent and start to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Set the onions aside.
3. Cook the Steak:
   • In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced ribeye steak. It cooks very quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes. Season it with a pinch of salt and black pepper. The key is not to overcook the meat; you want it to stay tender.

Preparing the Hoagie Rolls:

1. Garlic Butter Spread (Optional):
   • In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and let it infuse the butter for a couple of minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Toast the Rolls:
   • Preheat your oven’s broiler or toaster oven.
   • Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, and if desired, brush them with the optional garlic butter spread.
   • Place the rolls under the broiler or in the toaster oven until they become lightly toasted. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Assembly and Melting the Cheese:

1. Load Up the Hoagie Rolls:
   • Now comes the fun part! Place the sautéed onions on one side of each toasted hoagie roll.
2. Layer the Steak:
   • Pile the thinly sliced, hot ribeye steak over the sautéed onions.
3. Cheese, Please:
   • Lay 2-2.5 slices of Provolone cheese (or American cheese if preferred) over the hot steak. The heat of the meat will help melt the cheese. You can also add a small splash of water to create steam and speed up the melting process.
4. Add Optional Toppings:
   • If you’d like to customize your Philly Cheesesteak, you can add sautéed mushrooms, green bell peppers, hot peppers, or other toppings at this stage.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Close the hoagie rolls, and your Philly Cheesesteaks are ready to be devoured.
   • If you want the cheese extra gooey, you can briefly place the sandwiches back under the broiler, watching closely, until the cheese reaches your desired level of meltiness.

Serving Suggestions:

Philly Cheesesteaks are traditionally served with pickles and potato chips on the side. Some people enjoy condiments like ketchup, mayonnaise, or hot sauce, while others prefer it just as is.

Conclusion:

A Philly Cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich; it’s a cultural icon, beloved for its simple yet irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Mastering this classic recipe means you can enjoy an authentic taste of Philadelphia right in your own kitchen. So, fire up that skillet, slice your ribeye thin, and savor every cheesy, savory bite of this delectable delight. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the Philly Cheesesteak experience, you’re in for a treat!