1. Prepare the Steak:
– Begin by placing your ribeye or sirloin steak in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to slice the meat thinly.
– After freezing, use a sharp knife to slice the steak as thinly as possible. You want to aim for paper-thin slices, as this ensures the beef will cook quickly and remain tender.
– Season the sliced steak with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Onions:
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized—this should take about 10-15 minutes.
– Once cooked, remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Steak:
– In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
– Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the steak for about 2-3 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
– Once the steak is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
– In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
– Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns golden brown.
– Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
– Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded provolone cheese until it’s fully melted and smooth.
– Add in the Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toast the Rolls:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Brush the hoagie rolls with melted butter and place them on a baking sheet.
– Toast the rolls in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until they are golden and slightly crispy.
6. Assemble the Cheesesteak:
– To assemble your sandwich, start by placing a generous portion of the cooked steak on the bottom half of the toasted roll.
– Top the steak with the caramelized onions and any additional toppings you desire, such as sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms.
– Drizzle the warm cheese sauce over the top of the steak and onions.
– Place the top half of the roll on the sandwich, pressing down slightly to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
– Serve your homemade cheesesteak sandwich immediately, while the cheese is still gooey and the bread is warm. Pair it with a side of fries, a pickle, or enjoy it on its own—this sandwich is sure to satisfy!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesesteak:
– Choosing the Right Cut of Beef: The quality of the beef is crucial for a great cheesesteak. Ribeye is the traditional choice, as it’s tender and flavorful. If ribeye isn’t available, sirloin is a good alternative. Freezing the steak before slicing makes it easier to get those thin, delicate slices that cook quickly and evenly.
– Caramelizing the Onions: Don’t rush the onions. Cooking them slowly over medium heat ensures they become soft and caramelized, adding a sweet depth of flavor to your sandwich.
– Cheese Choices: While provolone is a popular choice, many cheesesteak purists swear by American cheese or even Cheez Whiz for that classic Philly experience. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite.
– Bread Matters: A good cheesesteak is only as good as the bread it’s served on. Look for hoagie rolls or Italian rolls with a firm crust and a soft, pillowy interior. Toasting the rolls lightly in the oven gives them a nice crunch that complements the tender beef and gooey cheese.
– Customization: One of the best things about making your own cheesesteak is the ability to customize it. Whether you like your sandwich with extra cheese, loaded with veggies, or with a spicy kick from hot peppers, the choice is yours.
Final Thoughts:
Making a homemade cheesesteak sandwich is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of Philadelphia into your own kitchen. With tender, juicy steak, gooey cheese, and perfectly toasted bread, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re looking to recreate the classic Philly experience or put your own twist on it, this recipe provides a solid foundation for a truly exceptional cheesesteak.
Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every bite of this ultimate comfort food!
