If you’re a fan of hearty, mouthwatering sandwiches that are packed with flavors, then you’re in for a treat! In this post, we’re diving into the world of Philly Steak Sandwiches – a classic dish that has won the hearts of sandwich enthusiasts all over. From the tender beef round steak to the savory blend of spices, this recipe is a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re hosting a game night with friends or simply want to indulge in a satisfying meal, these Philly Steak Sandwiches are the way to go.
How to Prepare Philly Steak Sandwiches
When it comes to crafting the perfect Philly Steak Sandwich, it’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. This recipe combines succulent beef round steak, sautéed vegetables, and melted Provolone cheese – all nestled between slices of French bread or hoagie buns. The result? A sandwich that’s not only visually appealing but also a delight for your taste buds.
Ingredients for Philly Steak Sandwiches
- 2 1/2 to 3 pounds beef round steak
- 2 green peppers, sliced thin
- 2 onions, sliced thin
- 3 cups beef stock
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 envelope dry Italian dressing mix
- 1 to 2 large loaves French bread, sliced into sandwich lengths or 6 to 8 hoagie buns
- Provolone cheese slices
Directions for Philly Steak Sandwiches
Start by preparing your slow cooker. Spray it with non-stick cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner to prevent sticking.
Begin by cutting the beef round steak into thin strips. These thin strips will cook up tender and flavorful in the slow cooker. Place the strips of meat into the slow cooker.
Add the sliced green peppers and onions to the slow cooker. These vegetables not only add a pop of color but also a sweet and savory dimension to the sandwiches.
Pour in the beef stock to create a flavorful base for your Philly Steak mixture.
Season the mixture with the garlic salt, black pepper, and dry Italian dressing mix. These seasonings will infuse the meat and vegetables with a burst of tantalizing flavors.
Once all the ingredients are in the slow cooker, cover it with the lid. You have two options for cooking time:
Cook on low for 7-8 hours for a slow and thorough infusion of flavors.
Cook on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time but still want that amazing taste.
As the mixture simmers and the aromas fill your kitchen, your Philly Steak filling will become tender and infused with the seasonings.
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to assemble your sandwiches. Begin by toasting the French bread or hoagie buns. This step adds a lovely crunch to your sandwiches.
Spoon the flavorful meat and vegetable mixture onto the toasted buns. Make sure each sandwich gets a generous portion of the delicious filling.
Top each sandwich with slices of Provolone cheese. The warmth of the meat will melt the cheese slightly, creating a creamy and indulgent layer.
For an extra touch, place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven for a few minutes. This step will melt the cheese to perfection and give the sandwiches a toasty finish.
To take your Philly Steak Sandwiches to the next level, consider adding sautéed mushrooms on top. The earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the richness of the meat and cheese.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Provolone cheese is a popular choice for Philly Steak Sandwiches, you can get creative with your cheese selection. Mozzarella, Swiss, or even cheddar could work wonderfully.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Traditionally, beef round steak is used for Philly Steak Sandwiches. However, you can experiment with other cuts of beef or even try chicken or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Can I make the meat filling in advance?
Certainly! The meat filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the filling and assemble the sandwiches.
What side dishes go well with Philly Steak Sandwiches?
Classic choices like French fries or onion rings make excellent side dishes. A crisp garden salad or coleslaw can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwiches.
Can I freeze the cooked sandwiches?
While it’s possible to freeze the cooked meat filling, the texture of the vegetables might change upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the meat separately and assemble the sandwiches fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture while it’s cooking. Remember, you can always adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Philly Steak Sandwiches (Slow Cooker version)
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 to 3 pounds beef round steak
- 2 green peppers sliced thin
- 2 onions sliced thin
- 3 cups beef stock
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 envelope dry Italian dressing mix
- 1 to 2 large loaves French bread sliced into sandwich lengths or 6 to 8 hoagie buns
- Provolone cheese slices
Instructions
- Spray crock pot with non-stick cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner.
- Cut meat into thin strips, place in slow cooker. Add green pepper, onion, stock, garlic salt, pepper and dressing mix.
- Cover and cook on low 7-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours.
- Spoon meat mixture onto toasted buns, top with cheese.
- You can then put the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake an additional few minutes to melt the cheese and toast the sandwich.
- You can also serve with sliced sauteed mushrooms on top.
