One Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Ingredients

• 1 lb top sirloin steak, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)
• 2 cups shredded provolone or cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Steak: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, season with a little salt and pepper, and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the steak and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add the remaining butter to the pot. Sauté the onion, bell peppers, and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Make the Base: Sprinkle flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well for about 1-2 minutes. This helps to thicken the soup.
4. Add Broth and Cream: Slowly add the beef broth while stirring, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, and bring to a simmer.
5. Add Steak Back In: Return the cooked steak to the pot, stirring to combine. Simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes, until it’s thickened and flavorful.
6. Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheese until it melts and the soup becomes creamy.
7. Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

20 Popular Questions and Answers

1. Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
   • A: Yes, ribeye or even flank steak works well for this soup.
2. Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
   • A: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream, and use dairy-free cheese.
3. Q: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
   • A: Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
4. Q: Can I substitute chicken for beef?
   • A: Sure, chicken breast or thighs would make a lighter version of the soup.
5. Q: What if I don’t have provolone cheese?
   • A: Cheddar, mozzarella, or even American cheese can be used instead.
6. Q: Can I add mushrooms?
   • A: Yes, mushrooms add great flavor! Sauté them with the peppers and onions.
7. Q: How long does this soup keep?
   • A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
8. Q: Can I freeze this soup?
   • A: It can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
9. Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   • A: Yes! Sauté the steak and veggies first, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours.
10. Q: How do I make it spicier?
    • A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes for extra heat.
11. Q: What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
    • A: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
12. Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
    • A: Yes! Replace the steak with mushrooms or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth.
13. Q: Should the steak be marinated first?
    • A: It’s optional, but a quick marinade with soy sauce and Worcestershire adds great flavor.
14. Q: Can I add potatoes to this soup?
    • A: Yes, diced potatoes would make it extra hearty—just add them in with the broth.
15. Q: Is there a way to lighten this recipe?
    • A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and cut back on the cheese if you’d like.
16. Q: Can I use ground beef instead?
    • A: Ground beef is a great substitute! It adds a similar flavor without the need to slice steak.
17. Q: What other toppings work well with this soup?
    • A: Try adding croutons, green onions, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
18. Q: How can I make the soup less thick?
    • A: Add a little extra broth until you reach your desired consistency.
19. Q: Can I use pre-cooked steak?
    • A: Yes, just add it in the final steps to avoid overcooking.
20. Q: Does it work as a meal prep recipe?
    • A: Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for several days.

30 Helpful Tips to Make it Even More Delightful

1. Sear the steak for extra flavor.
2. Use a well-marbled cut of steak like ribeye for richness.
3. Add Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
4. Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary for a herby twist.
5. Add a splash of red wine to the broth.
6. Top each bowl with extra shredded cheese.
7. Use a smoked cheese for a smoky flavor.
8. Add a pinch of smoked paprika.
9. Try caramelizing the onions first for sweetness.
10. Sauté mushrooms with the onions for earthy flavor.
11. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for balance.
12. Toast some bread for dipping!
13. Use a nonstick pot for easy cleanup.
14. Dice the steak finely for easier spoonfuls.
15. Use crushed red pepper for a mild heat.
16. Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt to lighten it.
17. Try blending half the soup for a creamier texture.
18. Top with green onions or chives for freshness.
19. Stir in kale or spinach for extra nutrients.
20. Try a blend of cheeses for complexity.
21. Add crumbled bacon for an extra savory kick.
22. Substitute bone broth for beef broth for extra nutrients.
23. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
24. Try adding a pinch of curry powder for a unique flavor.
25. Add grated carrot for a touch of natural sweetness.
26. A dash of hot sauce can boost flavor without too much heat.
27. Make a double batch—it goes fast!
28. Ladle over a slice of toasted bread for a twist.
29. Add a swirl of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top.
30. Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.

30 Secrets to Achieving the Perfect Soup

1. Brown the steak well to bring out its full flavor.
2. Use freshly minced garlic for best taste.
3. Let the soup simmer for at least 20 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Stir in cheese gradually to avoid clumping.
5. Use high-quality beef broth for a richer base.
6. Sauté veggies until caramelized for added depth.
7. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
8. A dash of soy sauce enhances umami.
9. Add the cheese slowly off the heat to prevent curdling.
10. Try garnishing with crispy fried onions.
11. Avoid overcooking the steak for tender bites.
12. Deglaze the pan with a bit of broth to capture flavors.
13. Add a pinch of sugar to balance flavors.
14. Use full-fat cheese for extra creaminess.
15. Stir in a little sour cream for added tang.
16. Blend part of the soup for a creamier consistency.
17. Allow onions to cook low and slow for sweetness.
18. Add a splash of beer or ale for depth.
19. Use leftover steak to save time.
20. Don’t over-stir to keep cheese smooth.
21. Use fresh herbs for a bright finish.
22. Let the soup cool slightly before adding cream.
23. Add cornstarch if you prefer a thicker soup.
24. Try simmering with bay leaves for aroma.
25. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
26. Use freshly ground black pepper for best flavor.
27. Ladle soup over crusty bread in bowls for a hearty presentation.
28. Don’t add too much salt until cheese is mixed in.
29. Try a touch of Dijon mustard for depth.
30. Garnish with a few shavings of Parmesan for a savory finish.

Enjoy this hearty and comforting One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup!