Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Hearty and delicious, Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. This creamy soup combines tender steak, sautéed vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. It’s easy to make and is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re serving it at a casual dinner party or enjoying a comforting bowl on a chilly evening, this soup stands out as a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of sirloin steak, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheeses creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this comforting dish without any hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it alone or pair it with crusty rolls for dipping—perfect for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This soup is sure to impress family and friends; it’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this amazing Philly Cheesesteak Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly and allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for making the cheese sauce without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth mixing when adding milk to the roux, preventing lumps.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Soup with tender steak, sautéed vegetables, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Serve with crusty rolls.

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pound sirloin steak, thinly sliced (against the grain)
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese
• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Serving

• Crusty rolls, for dipping
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers (both green and red). Cook until softened and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Brown the Steak

Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot. Increase heat to medium-high. Cook until browned while stirring frequently. Avoid overcrowding; do this in batches if necessary.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the beef broth and add diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer; then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 30 minutes up to an hour.

Step 5: Prepare Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour; cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheeses

Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese; stir until melted. Gradually mix in provolone and mozzarella cheeses until creamy.

Step 7: Combine Soup Base with Cheese Sauce

Slowly pour the cheese sauce into the pot with soup base while stirring constantly. Heat through without boiling after adding cheese.

Step 8: Adjust Consistency

If too thick, add more beef broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered briefly until desired thickness is reached.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Top with extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with crusty rolls for dipping.

This comforting Philly Cheesesteak Soup will surely become a go-to recipe in your home! Enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Serving your Philly Cheesesteak Soup is just as important as making it. The right accompaniments can enhance the flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Rolls

• Enjoy the soup with crusty rolls for dipping. The rolls can soak up the creamy goodness and add a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the soup with chopped fresh parsley. This adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor.

Cheese Lovers Delight

• For an extra cheesy experience, top your soup with additional shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese before serving. Let it melt slightly to create a deliciously gooey texture.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Serve a light side salad to balance the richness of the soup. A simple green salad with vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast.

With Pickles or Relishes

• Offer pickles or relishes on the side for a tangy flavor that complements the creamy soup. This adds an interesting twist that guests will love.

How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Perfecting your Philly Cheesesteak Soup can take this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best results every time you make it.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth for a richer flavor profile.
• Cook Vegetables Slowly: Sauté onions and bell peppers slowly for caramelization, enhancing their sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Thinly Slice Steak: Cut sirloin steak against the grain into thin slices for tender bites that blend well into the soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust Worcestershire sauce and spices according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Monitor Temperature: After adding cheese sauce, heat gently without boiling to avoid separating the cheese and maintain creaminess.
• Store Properly: If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on low heat when ready to enjoy again.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Philly Cheesesteak Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up leftover soup, adding robust flavor.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing that balances the creaminess of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring a healthy touch and earthy flavors that pair well with the richness of the soup.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, which contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese make for delightful finger foods alongside your meal.
6. Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips add an unexpected texture contrast while being easy to snack on during dinner.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to savory flavors, perfect for dipping in your soup.
8. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a hint of sweetness that harmonizes wonderfully with savory dishes like cheesesteak soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Philly Cheesesteak Soup can be an enjoyable experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrectly Cutting the Steak: If you slice the steak with the grain, it may become tough. Always cut against the grain for tender pieces.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too much steak at once can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches to get that perfect sear.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not salting your soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually.
• Rushing the Cheese Sauce: If you add all the cheese at once, it may not melt smoothly. Gradually incorporate the cheese for a creamy texture.
• Not Simmering Long Enough: For deep flavors, allow your soup to simmer adequately. Letting it cook longer melds the ingredients beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Philly Cheesesteak Soup:

What is Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe?

Philly Cheesesteak Soup is a hearty dish made with tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for cold days.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey for beef if you prefer a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

How do I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also adjust the cheese types based on your preference.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace beef with mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

Philly Cheesesteak Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins and veggies. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!