One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, crusty bread for dipping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove steak and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then add onion, green pepper, and red pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
3. Add Garlic and Worcestershire: Stir in the garlic and Worcestershire sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth, scraping the pot’s bottom to get up any browned bits. Return the steak to the pot.
5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
6. Add the Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and gradually add in the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
7. Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Top 20 Questions About One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   • Yes, ribeye or even ground beef can be used. Ribeye adds more richness, while ground beef makes it easier to prepare.
2. How can I make this recipe lighter?
   • Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, and use a reduced-fat cheese blend to cut down on fat.
3. Can I add mushrooms?
   • Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms add a great depth of flavor. Sauté them with the onions and peppers.
4. Is there a vegetarian version?
   • Swap the steak for sliced portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
5. Can I use shredded cheddar instead of provolone?
   • Yes, but the soup may have a slightly sharper taste. Provolone gives a traditional Philly Cheesesteak flavor.
6. Can this soup be made in advance?
   • Yes, the flavors develop even more after a day, but add the cheese just before serving.
7. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
8. Can this be frozen?
   • Avoid freezing due to the cream and cheese, as they may separate when reheated.
9. How can I make the soup thicker?
   • Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) before adding the cheese.
10. What other cheeses can I add?
    • Swiss or American cheese can also work, but stick to mild cheeses to avoid overpowering the flavor.
11. Do I need to use Worcestershire sauce?
    • It’s recommended for flavor depth, but soy sauce can be a substitute.
12. Can I add potatoes?
    • Yes, diced potatoes can be added, but cook until tender before adding the cream and cheese.
13. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
    • Gradually add cheese, stirring constantly on low heat to help it melt smoothly.
14. Can I use milk instead of cream?
    • Yes, but the soup will be less rich. Thicken with a cornstarch slurry if needed.
15. What’s a good side dish?
    • Crusty garlic bread, baguette slices, or a light salad pair wonderfully.
16. Can I use a slow cooker?
    • Yes, cook on low for 4 hours, adding the cream and cheese in the last 30 minutes.
17. Is this soup gluten-free?
    • It is if you ensure your Worcestershire sauce and beef broth are gluten-free.
18. How do I add spice?
    • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
19. Is mozzarella necessary?
    • It adds creaminess, but you can use all provolone or another mild cheese.
20. What’s the best bread to serve with this?
    • A crusty baguette or sourdough works well for dipping.

Helpful Tips for Perfecting One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

1. Use High-Quality Beef
   Choose tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye. They add depth to the flavor and remain tender during cooking.
2. Slice Steak Thinly
   To get the classic Philly cheesesteak texture, freeze the steak for about 15 minutes and then slice it as thinly as possible against the grain.
3. Caramelize the Onions
   Cooking the onions slowly until they’re golden brown enhances the sweetness and adds rich flavor.
4. Use Fresh Bell Peppers
   Freshly chopped green and red bell peppers add color and a touch of sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, use red or yellow peppers instead of green.
5. Add Garlic for Depth
   Freshly minced garlic sautéed with the onions and peppers gives a deeper, aromatic flavor.
6. Deglaze the Pot
   After browning the beef, use a little beef broth or Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan and incorporate those browned bits into the soup.
7. Enhance with Worcestershire Sauce
   A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami kick that complements the beef and cheese.
8. Simmer with Bay Leaves
   Adding bay leaves while the soup simmers enhances the flavors with subtle earthiness. Remember to remove before serving.
9. Choose Provolone Cheese
   Use aged provolone for a stronger, tangy flavor, or mild provolone for a classic creamy taste. Either will melt perfectly into the soup.
10. Add Cream Cheese for Extra Creaminess
    A small amount of cream cheese blended in will make the soup extra rich and creamy without overpowering the flavor.
11. Melt Cheese Slowly
    Stir in cheese gradually over low heat to prevent it from becoming stringy and to keep the soup smooth.
12. Thicken with Flour or Cornstarch
    If you prefer a thicker soup, whisk a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch into a little cold broth and add it while simmering.
13. Season Generously
    Salt, pepper, and a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne can add a subtle warmth that complements the other ingredients.
14. Add Beef Broth Slowly
    Start with less broth and add more gradually until you reach the desired consistency, ensuring the soup isn’t too thin.
15. Try a Dash of Hot Sauce
    A dash of hot sauce or chili flakes can add a slight kick without making the soup too spicy.
16. Add Mushroom Slices
    Mushrooms can enhance the umami flavors, providing a “meaty” texture if you enjoy mushrooms in your Philly cheesesteak.
17. Simmer Slowly
    Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes to let the flavors blend fully.
18. Taste-Test
    Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or cheese as needed.
19. Serve with Crusty Bread
    A side of crusty bread or baguette complements the creamy soup and can be used to soak up every delicious drop.
20. Garnish with Chopped Parsley
    Fresh parsley or chives add a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
21. Add a Splash of Heavy Cream
    To make it even more luxurious, add a small amount of heavy cream in the last few minutes of cooking.
22. Top with Extra Cheese
    Top each bowl with additional shredded provolone or mozzarella, and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden topping.
23. Use Pre-Shredded Cheese with Caution
    Pre-shredded cheese can have additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Shred cheese yourself for best results.
24. Keep the Soup Warm in the Oven
    If you’re preparing for a group, keep the soup warm in the oven on low heat rather than simmering on the stovetop to avoid overcooking.
25. Include Diced Potatoes
    Small diced potatoes add heartiness, making the soup even more filling. Add them early so they soften in time.
26. Experiment with Cheese Blends
    A mix of provolone and cheddar or mozzarella can add different layers of flavor and meltiness.
27. Opt for a One-Pot Dutch Oven
    A Dutch oven helps distribute heat evenly, so all ingredients cook through without burning or sticking.
28. Refrigerate Overnight
    If time permits, refrigerate the soup overnight. The flavors will meld, making the soup even tastier the next day.
29. Use Sautéed Onions for Garnish
    A spoonful of caramelized onions on top adds sweetness and makes each serving feel special.
30. Serve in Bread Bowls
    For an extra cozy presentation, hollow out small sourdough bread rounds and serve the soup inside for a fun twist!