Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich with Onions and Provolone

The Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is one of America’s most iconic and beloved comfort foods — a sizzling creation straight from the streets of Philadelphia. It features thinly sliced beef, caramelized onions, and melted provolone cheese, all piled into a soft, warm hoagie roll.

With its irresistible combination of savory meat, creamy cheese, and tender bread, this sandwich has become a symbol of hearty, satisfying indulgence.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the soul of classic American street food — simple ingredients, bold flavor, and pure comfort. The tender beef mingling with sweet sautéed onions and gooey melted cheese is nothing short of heavenly.

Every bite is juicy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Plus, it’s fast and easy to make, whether for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Philly Cheesesteak is a must-try because it’s the perfect harmony of texture and flavor — juicy meat, melty cheese, and a soft, crusty roll that holds it all together.

It’s a meal that makes you feel like you’re standing in a classic Philly sandwich shop, right at home. Once you make it, you’ll understand why this sandwich has achieved legendary status.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings

4 sandwiches

Calories

550 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American (Philadelphia-style)
• Course: Main Course / Sandwich

Ingredients

For the Sandwich:

• 1 lb (450 g) ribeye steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter or oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices provolone cheese (or more to taste)
• 4 hoagie rolls (soft, split lengthwise)

Optional Add-ons:

• Sautéed bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• Mushrooms, sliced and sautéed
• Cheese Whiz or American cheese (for an authentic twist)
• Hot sauce or mayo, if desired

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Sauté onions in butter until golden and soft.
2. Add thinly sliced beef, season, and cook until browned.
3. Top with provolone cheese and let it melt over the meat.
4. Toast hoagie rolls, fill with the cheesy beef mixture, and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Freeze the ribeye steak for about 30 minutes before slicing — this makes it easier to cut into thin slices.
• Slice onions thinly and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

• Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
• Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized (about 8–10 minutes).
• Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

• Add another 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet.
• Add thinly sliced beef, season with salt and black pepper, and cook over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring until browned.
• Stir the onions back in to combine.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

• Lay the provolone cheese slices on top of the beef mixture.
• Let them melt for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, then gently mix or fold everything together so the cheese coats the beef and onions evenly.

Step 5: Prepare the Rolls

• Split the hoagie rolls and lightly toast them on the griddle or in a hot oven for 1–2 minutes.
• Optionally, spread a bit of butter or mayo on the inside for added flavor.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

• Spoon the cheesy beef and onion mixture into the toasted rolls.
• Serve hot and gooey — just like the original Philly version!

How to Serve

Serve your Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches warm with sides like:

• French fries or sweet potato fries
• Onion rings
• Coleslaw or pickles
• A cold soda, iced tea, or beer

This sandwich is best eaten immediately while the cheese is still melty and the bread warm.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use ribeye steak for the most tender and flavorful result — it’s the traditional cut used in Philly cheesesteaks.
• Freeze the beef slightly before slicing for easier, thinner cuts.
• Cook quickly over high heat to avoid tough meat.
• Use a griddle or large cast-iron pan to get that authentic seared flavor.
• Add Cheese Whiz for a classic “Philly-style” cheesesteak taste.

Recipe Variations

1. Classic “Whiz Wit” Philly Cheesesteak: Use Cheese Whiz instead of provolone and include sautéed onions (“wit”).
2. Mushroom Cheesesteak: Add sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor.
3. Pepper Cheesesteak: Include bell peppers for color and crunch.
4. Spicy Cheesesteak: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat.
5. Chicken Cheesesteak: Substitute thinly sliced chicken breast for beef.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers (unassembled) in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Store cooked beef and onions (without cheese or bread) in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat; add fresh cheese and fill toasted rolls before serving.
• Avoid freezing assembled sandwiches, as bread tends to get soggy.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet, griddle, or cast-iron pan
• Sharp knife for thin slicing
• Spatula or tongs
• Cutting board

Conclusion

The Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich with Onions and Provolone is the perfect example of how simplicity and balance can create culinary magic. With tender slices of beef, sweet onions, and creamy melted cheese tucked inside a soft hoagie roll, it’s no wonder this sandwich has become a national treasure. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, a casual get-together, or just craving a comforting bite of Americana, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.