Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe – Juicy Steak & Melty Cheese

A classic Philly-style sandwich with tender beef, melted cheese, and toasted rolls — made at home, the right way.

Table of Contents

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

25 minutes

Yield

2 sandwiches

Ingredients

250 g ribeye steak (or sirloin), very thinly sliced
2 hoagie rolls (or soft sandwich rolls)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon oil or butter
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Cheese Options (Choose ONE)

Provolone cheese (classic & balanced)
American cheese (extra creamy)
Cheese Whiz (authentic Philly-style)

Hook: The sandwich lives or dies by the steak cut and cheese choice — don’t rush this part.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Steak (Critical Step)

Place the steak in the freezer for 20–30 minutes, then slice it paper-thin against the grain.

Why this matters: Thin steak cooks fast and stays tender — thick slices turn chewy.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced onions and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly golden.

Remove onions and set aside.

Flavor base unlocked: Sweet onions balance the salty beef and cheese.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

In the same skillet, increase heat to medium-high.
Add the sliced steak in a single layer.

Season with salt and black pepper.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring and chopping lightly until just cooked.

Do not overcook — steak should stay juicy, not dry.

Step 4: Combine Steak & Onions

Add the cooked onions back into the skillet with the steak.
Mix well and spread evenly.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese (The Money Moment)

Place cheese slices directly on top of the steak mixture.
Lower the heat and cover the pan for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts.

This is where it becomes a Philly cheesesteak.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich

Lightly toast the hoagie rolls if desired.
Scoop the cheesy steak mixture into the rolls.

Serve immediately while hot and melty.

Optional Add-Ons (Not Traditional, But Popular)

Sautéed bell peppers
Mushrooms
Jalapeños
Garlic butter on rolls

Pinterest truth: Add-on images increase saves — even if purists complain.

Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak

Use high heat, short cooking time
Slice steak as thin as possible
Choose one cheese, not multiple
Soft rolls > crusty bread

Storage & Reheating

Best eaten fresh
Store filling separately in fridge (up to 2 days)
Reheat in skillet, not microwave, for best texture