Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Savor the delicious flavors of Philly Cheese Steak Soup—a creamy, cheesy delight that brings the classic sandwich to your bowl. Perfect for cozy dinners!

Experience the rich, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a comforting bowl of soup. This creamy, cheesy delight captures all the essence of the beloved sandwich, transforming it into a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days or a cozy dinner at home.

Philly Cheese Steak Soup origins

The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With its combination of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, it has won the hearts of food lovers across the country. But what if you could enjoy all those flavors in a warm and comforting soup? Enter Philly Cheese Steak Soup—a dish that transforms the classic sandwich into a creamy, hearty bowl of deliciousness.

This soup is perfect for those days when you’re craving the iconic flavors of a cheesesteak but want something a little different. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be whipped up in under an hour. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up on a chilly evening or serve to guests for a comforting dinner.

Philly Cheese Steak Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb ribeye steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup bell peppers (green, red, or a mix), diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups provolone cheese, shredded (or cheese of choice)

For Garnish (Optional)

Chopped fresh parsley
Additional shredded cheese
Crusty bread or rolls (for serving)

Ingredient Variations

Cheese: While provolone is traditional, you can also use mozzarella, American cheese, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
Meat Alternatives: Ground beef or turkey can be used instead of steak for a different twist.

Philly Cheese Steak Soup Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Prepare the Ingredients

Slice the Steak: Thinly slice the ribeye or sirloin against the grain for tenderness. If it’s easier, you can freeze the meat for about 30 minutes before slicing to make it firmer.
Dice the Vegetables: Prepare the onion and bell peppers by dicing them into small pieces for even cooking.

2: Cook the Steak

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced steak to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally.
Remove the steak from the pot and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pot.

3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4: Create the Soup Base

Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until it’s completely melted and blended into the soup.

5: Add the Cream and Cheese

Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Add the cooked steak back into the pot and stir in the shredded provolone cheese. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce as needed.

Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Slice Steak Thinly: The key to tender meat in this soup is to slice it very thin. A sharper knife will help make this task easier.
Let the Cream Cheese Soften: Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature before adding it to the soup for easier blending.
Control the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables to boost the nutritional value and flavor.
Simmer for Flavor: Letting the soup simmer allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Philly Cheese Steak Soup Serving Suggestions

Philly Cheese Steak Soup is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with some simple sides and garnishes:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish and color.
Serve with Bread: Crusty bread or hoagie rolls are perfect for dipping and will soak up the creamy soup.
Add Extra Cheese: Top each bowl with additional shredded cheese before serving and let it melt for a cheesy finish.
Pair with Salads: A simple side salad can balance the richness of the soup and add some freshness to your meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 700mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.)

The History of Philly Cheese Steak Soup

The Philly cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia in the early 20th century. Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, is credited with creating the first cheesesteak in 1930 when he decided to grill some beef on his hot dog stand. The sandwich quickly gained popularity, and within a few years, it became a staple in Philadelphia’s culinary scene.

A Culinary Icon

Over the decades, cheesesteaks have evolved, with many variations and styles emerging. They are often served with different cheeses, such as Cheez Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella, and can include toppings like sautéed mushrooms, peppers, and onions. Today, the cheesesteak is not only a Philadelphia tradition but also a beloved dish across the United States.

Fun Facts About Philly Cheese Steak Soup

World Record: The largest cheesesteak ever made weighed over 1,000 pounds and was created in 2014 in the Philippines.
Cheese Choices: While Cheez Whiz is the most popular cheese for cheesesteaks, many purists prefer provolone or mozzarella for a different taste.
Regional Variations: Other cities have put their spin on the cheesesteak, such as the Chicago “Italian beef” sandwich or the New York “cheeseburger” version.
Philly’s Iconic Rivalry: Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are two of the most famous cheesesteak vendors in Philadelphia, known for their friendly rivalry.
A Food Trend: The cheesesteak has inspired numerous fusion dishes, including cheesesteak egg rolls and cheesesteak pizza.
Culinary Tourism: Philadelphia hosts an annual cheesesteak festival, where local vendors showcase their best cheesesteaks.
Official Sandwich: In 2010, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives designated the cheesesteak as the official sandwich of Pennsylvania.
Cultural Reference: The cheesesteak has made appearances in various movies and TV shows, highlighting its cultural significance.
Order with Wit: In Philadelphia, ordering a cheesesteak “wit” means you want onions on it, while “wit-out” means no onions.
Cheesesteak Around the World: Variations of the cheesesteak can be found globally, with local ingredients and flavors incorporated.

FAQs Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can use ground beef, turkey, or even chicken in place of the steak for different flavor profiles.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Can I freeze Philly Cheese Steak Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup will be less creamy.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini to increase the nutritional content.

What is the best cheese to use?

Provolone is the traditional cheese, but you can also use mozzarella, American cheese, or cheddar based on your preference.

How spicy is this soup?

This soup is not inherently spicy, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes! You can create a vegetarian version by using plant-based steak alternatives and vegetable broth.

How long does this soup take to make?

This soup can be made in about 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal option.

What’s the best way to serve this soup?

Serve it warm with crusty bread for dipping or topped with extra cheese for a truly indulgent experience.

Conclusion

Philly Cheese Steak Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that captures the essence of the classic sandwich in a warm, comforting bowl. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and satisfying ingredients, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. The history and fun facts surrounding this iconic dish add an extra layer of enjoyment to every spoonful. So gather your ingredients, prepare a batch, and savor the taste of Philadelphia in the comfort of your home.