Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
A Philly Cheesesteak is a classic American dish known for its savory flavors and satisfying textures. While the traditional version is often served in a hoagie roll, this Philly Cheesesteak Skillet offers a delicious twist, packing all the flavors into a quick and easy one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish takes the essence of a cheesesteak and transforms it into a comforting skillet dinner that family and friends will love.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels hearty and looks impressive, all without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines tender slices of steak, colorful bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all tossed together with cauliflower rice to keep it on the lighter side. Topped with melty provolone cheese, this skillet meal is not only satisfying but also brings a taste of Philadelphia right to your table.
Why make this recipe
Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a quick yet flavorful meal. Often, after a long day, the last thing one wants to do is spend an eternity preparing dinner. This recipe allows for a wholesome and fulfilling meal to be assembled and cooked in under 30 minutes. The combination of fresh ingredients and rich flavors not only makes it an enticing dinner option but also a fun dish to prepare as a family. Each ingredient complements one another beautifully, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor, warmth, and comfort.
The skillet format of this dish also means less cleanup, which is a major plus in any busy household. Using just one pan to make a complete meal streamlines the cooking process and allows for simple serving directly from the skillet to the plate. Plus, it provides versatility; you can easily adjust ingredients based on seasonal produce or personal preferences. Whether you enjoy a bit more heat with spicy peppers or prefer to keep it mild, this recipe accommodates those variations without losing its core essence.
How to make Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
Making Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is straightforward and requires minimal culinary expertise, which is excellent for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. The cooking process begins by heating olive oil in a skillet, setting the stage for the steak to cook. As the oil sizzles, the thinly sliced steak is added, seasoned with salt and pepper. The key here is to let the steak sear properly without overcrowding the pan, as this helps to develop a rich flavor. The moment the steak becomes beautifully browned, it’s time to introduce the vegetables into the mix.
Adding bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds vibrant color to the dish. These vegetables should be sautéed until they are tender, creating a base that soaks up the juices from the steak. Next, cauliflower rice is stirred in, offering a low-carb alternative that melds perfectly with the other ingredients. The skillet remains on medium heat for a few more minutes, allowing everything to come together harmoniously. Finally, a generous handful of provolone cheese is added on top, and the skillet is covered. This ensures that the cheese melts into a gooey topping that ties the whole dish together.
The final step is to serve the Philly Cheesesteak Skillet hot from the stove, ensuring that every bite is cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying. This dish delivers all the classic cheesesteak flavors in a new format, and its ease of preparation means it could regularly appear on your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups cauliflower rice
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Add bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
- Top with shredded provolone cheese and cover the skillet until the cheese is melted.
- Serve immediately.
Time Breakdown
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
How to serve Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
Serving Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is as delightful as preparing it. The dish can be placed directly in the center of the table, allowing diners to scoop their portions right from the skillet. This not only makes for a rustic, communal dining experience but also keeps the meal warm for longer. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread or a green salad to balance the richness of the cheese and steak flavors. For those who enjoy some heat, consider offering a side of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños, giving guests the option to customize their plates to their liking.
For an elevated touch, garnishing with fresh parsley or freshly cracked black pepper can add a bright contrast to the dish’s deep flavors. A sprinkle of extra cheese right before serving can also enhance the visual appeal and indulgence of the skillet meal. This flexibility in serving style makes it a great option for gatherings, as it can easily be adapted based on the size of your group or the occasion.
How to store Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
Storing any leftovers of Philly Cheesesteak Skillet is straightforward and can help you save time on future meals. Allow the skillet to cool to room temperature before transferring the remaining food into an airtight container. Store this container in the refrigerator where it will last for up to three days. While reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, preventing the dish from becoming dry during the microwave or stove heating process.
If you know in advance that you will have leftovers, consider keeping the cheese separate. Although the melted cheese is undoubtedly delicious, it can become rubbery when reheated. Storing it separately allows you to add fresh cheese each time you serve, preserving that gooey texture and delightful flavor. If you are looking to extend the lifespan of your dish even further, you can freeze the skillet in a freezer-safe container. This can last up to three months, although it’s best enjoyed fresh for its prime flavor and texture.
Tips to make Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
For the best Philly Cheesesteak Skillet experience, a few handy tips can elevate your dish. Ensuring that the steak is sliced thinly against the grain will result in tender, juicy pieces that are easy to chew. It’s also wise to let the steak come to room temperature before cooking, which aids in achieving a good sear. When sautéing the vegetables, don’t rush the process; allowing them time to caramelize slightly adds depth and brings out their natural sugars.
Experimenting with different types of cheese can also offer exciting variations to this recipe. While provolone cheese is a classic choice, options such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can provide a different flavor profile. Adding in some additional spices or herbs, such as Italian seasoning or garlic powder, can also augment the taste of your skillet. Finally, if looking for a bit of crunch, consider finishing the dish with some fried onions or crispy bacon on top.
Variation
No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken instead of steak?
A: Yes, you can easily substitute chicken breast or thighs for the steak, just ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
Q: Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! You can replace the steak with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative and keep the vegetables as is.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: To add heat, include some sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking the steak and vegetables.
Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups cauliflower rice
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Add bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
- Top with shredded provolone cheese and cover the skillet until the cheese is melted.
- Serve immediately.
