Enjoy a hearty, savory cheesesteak experience without the need for a grill or thinly sliced steak. This version uses ground beef for a faster preparation time and a family-friendly texture. It is an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you need a filling meal quickly.
List of ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil – used for sautéing vegetables.
- 1 small onion, diced – adds aromatic sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced – provides a classic savory flavor.
- 1 lb lean ground beef – the primary protein base.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – enhances the umami profile.
- 1 tbsp A1 Steak Sauce – adds a tangy, bold steakhouse taste.
- 1/4 cup beef broth – keeps the meat moist and creates a light sauce.
- 4 hoagie rolls – the traditional base for cheesesteaks.
- 4 tbsp butter, softened – for toasting the buns.
- 1 tbsp garlic powder – seasons the buttered buns.
- 1 package provolone cheese, sliced – for a creamy, melted layer.
- Cheez Whiz – used for an authentic Philly-style finish.
step-by-step instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and sauté the diced bell peppers and onion for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
- Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Break the meat into small pieces using a wooden spoon and cook until no longer pink, then drain any excess grease.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, A1 Steak Sauce, and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes until the liquid reduces and flavors concentrate.
- Prepare the Buns: Place the open buns on a baking sheet. Spread softened butter on both the top and bottom sides, then sprinkle with garlic powder and top each side with a provolone cheese slice.
- Toast the Buns: Set your oven broiler to low. Toast the buns for a few minutes until the cheese is just melted, watching closely to prevent burning. Remove from the oven.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Scoop the beef and vegetable mixture into the toasted buns. Top with a generous amount of Cheez Whiz before serving.
Optimal Beef Selection
Choosing the Right Fat Ratio
Use lean ground beef, such as 90% lean, to prevent the sandwiches from becoming overly greasy. If you use a higher fat percentage, ensure you drain the skillet thoroughly after browning the meat. This ensures the sauces adhere better to the beef.
Achieving a Better Brown
Allow the beef to sear for a few minutes without stirring constantly. This creates a brown crust that adds deeper flavor to the final sandwich. Break the meat into small crumbles to maximize the surface area for browning.
Ground Meat Alternatives
While ground beef is traditional for this version, ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as leaner options. If using poultry, you may need to add a small amount of additional olive oil to compensate for the lower fat content. Keep the sauce ingredients the same to maintain the steakhouse flavor.
Bread and Bun Comparison
Classic Hoagie Rolls
Hoagie rolls are the gold standard because they are sturdy enough to hold the heavy meat mixture. Look for rolls with a slightly crusty exterior and a soft interior. This prevents the bread from disintegrating when you add the liquid-based meat filling.
Buttery Brioche Buns
Brioche buns add a slight sweetness and a richer texture to the sandwich. Because brioche is softer, it is essential to toast it well under the broiler. This creates a structural barrier that prevents the sauce from soaking through too quickly.
Hearty Sourdough Baguettes
For those who prefer a chewier texture, a sliced sourdough baguette is an excellent choice. The tanginess of the sourdough complements the richness of the Cheez Whiz and provolone. Slice them lengthwise to create a wide open face for the filling.
Cheese Pairing Guide
Mild Provolone Benefits
Provolone is used here for its excellent melting properties and mild, buttery flavor. It provides a creamy base that does not overpower the taste of the beef. Slicing the cheese thinly ensures it melts evenly under the broiler.
Using American Cheese
American cheese is a great alternative for those who want a saltier, creamier melt. It blends seamlessly with the Cheez Whiz for a very rich experience. Place one slice on each side of the bun for maximum coverage.
Integrating Shredded Mozzarella
Mozzarella offers a stretchier consistency and a very neutral flavor. It is best used as a topping over the meat mixture in the skillet before transferring to the buns. Cover the pan with a lid for two minutes to achieve a gooey texture.
Vegetable Prep Tips
Dicing for Uniformity
Dice the onions and bell peppers into small, consistent cubes. Uniform pieces ensure that the vegetables cook at the same rate and distribute evenly in every bite. Avoid large chunks that might fall out of the sandwich.
Expanding the Vegetable Mix
Adding sliced mushrooms to the sauté process can add a deeper earthy flavor to the beef. Sauté them along with the onions and peppers until the moisture has evaporated. This prevents the meat mixture from becoming too watery.
Controlling Pepper Heat
For a spicy version, replace the green bell pepper with a mix of green and red jalapeños. Seed the jalapeños if you prefer a milder heat. Sauté them early in the process to mellow out the raw pepper taste.
Advanced Toasting Techniques
Low Broiler Management
The broiler can burn bread very quickly, so keep the oven door slightly ajar if your oven allows it. Monitor the cheese constantly; as soon as it bubbles and turns slightly golden, remove the buns. This prevents the bread from becoming hard or charred.
Garlic Butter Distribution
Ensure the softened butter is spread from edge to edge on the bun. This creates a uniform golden crust and ensures the garlic powder is evenly distributed. Use a small offset spatula for a smooth application.
Preventing Soggy Buns
Toasting the buns with cheese on both sides creates a moisture barrier. This protects the bread from the juices of the beef mixture. For extra protection, apply a thin layer of Cheez Whiz directly to the toasted bread before adding the beef.
Comprehensive Storage Instructions
Refrigerating the Meat Base
Store the cooked beef, pepper, and onion mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three to four days. Keep the buns and cheese separate to maintain their texture.
Freezing for Future Meals
The meat mixture can be frozen for up to two months. Allow the beef to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag and squeezing out all the air. Thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Storing Prepared Sandwiches
It is not recommended to store fully assembled sandwiches as the bread will become soggy. If you must, wrap them tightly in foil. Be aware that the texture of the bun will change significantly upon storage.
Reheating Methods for Maximum Quality
Oven Reheating
To reheat the meat, place it in a small oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat at 350 degrees F until warmed through. Toast the buns separately in the oven for two minutes to restore their crispness.
Skillet Reheating
Place the meat mixture in a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of water or beef broth. Stir occasionally until the mixture is bubbling. This method best preserves the texture of the vegetables.
Microwave Precautions
When using a microwave, heat the meat in short 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Avoid microwaving the buns, as this often makes the bread rubbery. Toast the buns in a toaster instead.
Customizing Your Toppings
Adding Sautéed Mushrooms
Mushrooms add a savory depth that mimics a traditional steakhouse cheesesteak. Sauté them in the olive oil before adding the onions and peppers. Ensure they are well-browned to avoid a spongy texture.
Incorporating Fresh Greens
Adding a few leaves of fresh arugula or spinach on top of the meat adds a crisp contrast. The bitterness of arugula cuts through the richness of the melted cheese. Add the greens just before serving so they do not wilt.
Using Caramelized Onions
Instead of sautéing onions for three minutes, cook them on low heat for 20 minutes. This creates a sweet, jammy consistency that pairs perfectly with the salty provolone. Mix these into the beef at the very end.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Managing Excess Liquid
If the meat mixture is too watery after simmering, increase the heat to medium-high for two minutes. Stir constantly to evaporate the excess moisture. This ensures the filling stays inside the bun.
Fixing Burnt Garlic Powder
If the garlic powder burns under the broiler, it can taste bitter. To avoid this, mix the garlic powder into the softened butter before spreading it on the buns. This protects the powder from direct heat.
Dealing with Unmelted Cheese
If the cheese is not melting fast enough, move the baking sheet to the top rack of the oven. Ensure the broiler is fully preheated before adding the buns. You can also cover the buns with a piece of foil to trap heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute. Since turkey is leaner, you may want to add a teaspoon of olive oil to the meat during browning to keep it juicy.
How do I make this in a slow cooker?
Sauté the vegetables and beef in a pan first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the sauces. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Toast the buns separately using the broiler method.
What is the best substitute for A1 sauce?
If you do not have A1 sauce, a mixture of ketchup, a splash of vinegar, and a pinch of brown sugar works well. Alternatively, use more Worcestershire sauce and a touch of soy sauce.
Can I make this without a broiler?
Yes, you can toast the buttered buns in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cheese slices to the buns and cover the skillet with a lid for one minute to melt the cheese.
Which beef broth is best for this recipe?
Use a low-sodium beef broth to maintain control over the salt levels. Since Worcestershire and A1 sauce are already salty, using a low-sodium broth prevents the sandwich from becoming over-salted.
Print
Quick Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
Craving a classic cheesesteak sandwich? Try this Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak recipe! Loaded with savory beef, melty cheese, and a touch of Cheez Whiz, it’s a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic sandwich at home.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp A1 Steak Sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4 tbsp butter (softened)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 package provolone cheese (sliced)
- Cheez Whiz
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and toss in the chopped bell peppers and onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to get soft.
- Step 2: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onions and bell peppers. Break the beef into small pieces with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
- Step 3: Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, A1 Steak Sauce, and beef broth, stirring the meat mixture well. Let it simmer on medium heat until the liquid reduces a bit and the flavors concentrate, around 5 minutes.
- Step 4: Lay buns open on a baking sheet. Slather the top and bottom sides with butter, then sprinkle on some garlic powder. Add a layer of provolone cheese to both sides of each bun.
- Step 5: Turn your oven broiler on the low setting. Place prepared buns in the oven and lightly toast until the cheese is just melted. Watch them closely because this only takes a couple of minutes. Remove from oven and fill with our meat mixture.
- Step 6: Scoop the cheesy ground beef mix onto your toasted brioche buns or hoagie rolls. Top them with a slather of Cheez Whiz for that authentic cheesesteak sandwich experience.
Notes
Toast buns to golden brown under the broiler for a delightful crunch. To melt cheese perfectly into the meat mixture, cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil on low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 453 kcal
- Sugar: 5.9 g
- Sodium: 920 mg
- Fat: 19.2 g
- Saturated Fat: 9.3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40.4 g
- Fiber: 6.2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 88 mg