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authentic philly cheesesteak recipe

Philly Cheesesteak

This authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak features paper-thin ribeye steak sautéed to perfection and layered strategically with caramelized onions and Cheez Whiz in a crusty Italian roll. The secret lies in the proper technique and assembly method that ensures every bite delivers the perfect balance of flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 6 tablespoons soya oil divided
  • 1 large Spanish onion diced
  • 24 ounces boneless ribeye steak frozen slightly and sliced paper-thin
  • 4 crusty Italian rolls sliced lengthwise to form a cradle
  • Cheez Whiz warmed
  • Sautéed mushrooms optional
  • Sautéed red and green sweet peppers optional

Equipment

  • Large non-stick pan or griddle
  • Flat spatula
  • Small pot

Method
 

  1. Heat a griddle or large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of soya oil to the pan.
  2. Add the diced Spanish onion to the pan and sauté until they reach your preferred level of doneness - softened or caramelized. Remove from pan and set aside.
  3. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of oil to the hot surface and quickly sauté the paper-thin slices of ribeye steak. The slices will brown almost immediately.
  4. Using a flat spatula, scramble the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks to achieve the authentic texture.
  5. While the meat cooks, warm up your Cheez Whiz in a small pot or microwave until it reaches a pourable consistency.
  6. Place about 6 ounces of meat into each of your crusty Italian rolls, pushing the meat to one side rather than spreading it evenly.
  7. Next to the meat, add your sautéed onions and any optional toppings like sautéed mushrooms or sweet peppers.
  8. Use a butter knife to smear the warm Cheez Whiz alongside your meat and toppings, not on top of them. This layering technique ensures you get meat, toppings, and cheese in every bite.
  9. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

For the most authentic experience, try to find Amoroso rolls, which are the traditional choice in Philadelphia. If you can't find paper-thin sliced ribeye, partially freeze your steak for about 30 minutes before slicing it as thinly as possible with a sharp knife.
While Cheez Whiz is the classic choice, provolone or American cheese are acceptable alternatives. For a variation, try the 'pizza steak' by substituting pizza sauce and mozzarella for the Cheez Whiz.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap loosely in foil and warm in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes.