Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Hearty and comforting, Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings. This creamy soup combines tender steak, sautéed vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce that will warm your heart and soul. It’s an easy dish to prepare, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy get-togethers with friends. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a prep time of only 20 minutes, you can have this delicious soup on the table in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sirloin steak and savory vegetables creates a hearty base, while the creamy cheese sauce adds a luxurious touch.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with crusty rolls for dipping or serve it as a main course alongside a fresh salad.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. It reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Soup, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for making the creamy cheese sauce without splattering.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth mixing of ingredients, especially when making sauces.

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

To Serve:

• 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 the 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 while stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized; this should take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Steak

Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot. Increase heat to medium-high and cook while stirring frequently until browned. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to do this in batches to achieve proper browning.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes if desired. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour.

Step 5: Prepare Cheese Sauce

While soup simmers, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour; cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to create a roux.

Step 6: Create Smooth Sauce

Gradually whisk in milk about ½ cup at a time; ensure each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue whisking until sauce is smooth and thickened.

Step 7: Add Cheeses

Reduce heat to low; add softened cream cheese. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Then add shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses one handful at a time until melted and creamy.

Step 8: Combine Cheese Sauce with Soup

Once ready, slowly pour the cheese sauce into the soup base while stirring constantly to combine.

Step 9: Heat Through

Heat through by stirring occasionally until heated entirely but avoid boiling after adding cheese sauce as this can cause separation.

Step 10: Adjust Consistency

If too thick, add more beef broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes until some liquid evaporates.

Step 11: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls; top with extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheeses along with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with crusty rolls for dipping!

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

Serving Philly Cheesesteak Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and textures. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that make each bowl even more delightful.

With Crusty Rolls

• Enjoy the soup with warm, crusty rolls. They are perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy goodness of the soup.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese on top before serving. This adds an extra layer of creaminess and enhances the cheesy flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Parsley

• A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color, making it visually appealing as well as tasty.

Served with a Side Salad

• Pair the soup with a refreshing green salad. A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup nicely.

Accompanied by Pickles

• Add some tangy pickles on the side. Their crunch and acidity balance out the creamy soup, providing a delightful contrast.

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

To ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality beef for better flavor. Fresh ingredients elevate the overall taste.
• Slice Meat Thinly: Cut sirloin steak against the grain into thin slices. This keeps the meat tender and easy to chew in every bite.
• Control Heat Carefully: When cooking, avoid boiling after adding cheese sauce. High heat can cause separation; gentle warming is key.
• Adjust Thickness Wisely: If your soup is too thick, add more beef broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency without diluting flavor.

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

Complement your comforting bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Soup with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread provides a flavorful companion for dipping into your soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and a tangy dressing that contrasts wonderfully with creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a healthy touch while their caramelized sweetness complements the savory flavors of the soup.
4. Potato Wedges: Baked or fried potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch alongside your warm bowl of soup.
5. Coleslaw: The freshness and crispness of coleslaw bring brightness to your meal, balancing out the richness of the soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These savory delights filled with rice and spices pair well, adding heartiness to your dining experience.
7. Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread offers a delightful texture contrast and pairs beautifully with rich soups.
8. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness adds an intriguing flavor profile while providing a crunchy texture that complements the creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Philly Cheesesteak Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your experience. Here’s what to look out for.

• Bold ingredient choices: Choosing low-quality or stale ingredients can lead to a bland soup. Always opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality beef for the best flavor.
• Ignoring the simmer time: Skipping the simmer time will result in underdeveloped flavors. Allow your soup to simmer at least 30 minutes to let all the ingredients meld together.
• Overcrowding the pot: Cooking too many ingredients at once can steam rather than brown them. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect caramelization.
• Rushing the cheese sauce: Adding cheese too quickly can cause clumping. Gradually incorporate cheese into your sauce for a creamy texture.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always season throughout the cooking process and adjust before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Philly Cheesesteak Soup will last up to 3-4 days when properly stored.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short increments, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Philly Cheesesteak Soup that might help you along the way.

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

Philly Cheesesteak Soup is a hearty dish featuring tender beef and colorful vegetables in a rich, creamy cheese sauce that captures the essence of a classic cheesesteak sandwich.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breast or thigh meat for beef if you prefer a lighter option while retaining similar flavors.

How do I make it vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, skip the meat entirely and use vegetable broth. Add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors in your Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

How spicy is this soup?

The level of spiciness depends on your use of red pepper flakes. Omit them entirely or adjust according to your taste preference for mildness or heat.

Final Thoughts

Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is not only delicious but also highly customizable. Whether you opt for different meats or add extra vegetables, this soup delivers warmth and comfort on chilly days. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful dish with crusty rolls!