Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks

You’ll never want to make a Philly cheesesteak any other way! Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks are juicy and tender meat cooked in the slow cooker and perfectly topped with melty cheese on a toasted bun. Ideal for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner, these sandwiches are sure to impress with their rich flavors and effortless preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of beef, peppers, and onions cooked in savory broth creates an irresistible taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or cheeses to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a party dish, these cheesesteaks fit right in.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the deliciousness again the next day as leftovers or repurpose them into other dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks, you’ll need a few essential tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Whisk
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It tenderizes meat while infusing flavors during long cooking times.
• Whisk: A whisk is perfect for mixing sauces and ensuring all your seasonings blend smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Meat and Vegetables

• 1 1/2 pounds beef top sirloin (cut into 1 inch strips)
• 1 white or yellow onion (chopped or sliced)
• 1 red pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 green pepper (thinly sliced)

For the Broth Mixture

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

• 4 hoagie rolls (sliced lengthwise)
• 8 slices provolone cheese

How to Make Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks

Step 1: Prepare the Broth Mixture

Whisk together beef broth, salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper in a bowl until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the beef strips, chopped onions, and sliced peppers into your slow cooker. Pour the broth mixture over the top. Ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Toast the Hoagie Rolls

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil. Open each hoagie roll and layer two slices of provolone cheese inside. Place on baking sheet and bake for about 5 minutes until cheese is melty.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Using tongs, transfer generous portions of meat and peppers onto each toasted hoagie roll (on top of melted cheese). Serve hot and enjoy every bite!

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 360 minutes
Total Time: 370 minutes
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 303 kcal

How to Serve Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks

Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks are a crowd-pleaser that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these sandwiches can be customized to suit everyone’s taste.

Classic Style

• Serve the cheesesteaks on toasted hoagie rolls with melted provolone cheese for a traditional experience.

Loaded with Toppings

• Add toppings like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor and texture of your cheesesteak.

With Dipping Sauce

• Offer a side of savory au jus or spicy mustard for dipping, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to your meal.

Mini Sandwiches

• Create sliders using smaller rolls for fun appetizers at parties. These are perfect for guests to grab and enjoy easily.

Salad Plate

• Serve the cheesesteak mixture over a bed of greens for those looking for a lighter option without the bread.

Breakfast Twist

• Use the beef and pepper mix as a filling for breakfast burritos, topped with scrambled eggs and cheese for a hearty morning meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks

To make sure your Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select high-quality beef top sirloin for tenderness and rich flavor in your cheesesteaks.
• Slice Evenly: Cut the beef into uniform strips to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout.
• Layer Ingredients: Place onions and peppers on top of the meat in the slow cooker. This helps them cook down nicely without getting too mushy.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; 6-8 hours on low is ideal for tender meat that falls apart easily.
• Toast Your Rolls: Toasting hoagie rolls just before serving adds a delicious crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender filling.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While provolone is classic, feel free to try other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this hearty sandwich.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, making them an excellent contrast to savory cheesesteaks.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a cool crunch that balances the richness of the sandwich.
3. Garlic Bread: Serve garlic bread as a side for additional flavor and a satisfying carb companion.
4. Potato Chips: Classic kettle-cooked potato chips offer crispy texture and convenience alongside your sandwiches.
5. Pickles: A side of dill pickles adds tanginess that pairs well with the rich flavors of cheesesteaks.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your plate while enhancing the overall meal experience.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn is sweet and juicy, making it a great seasonal side dish during summer barbecues.
8. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad offers comfort food vibes that harmonize beautifully with cheesesteak flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your cheesesteaks turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use a mix of garlic powder, salt, and Italian seasoning for depth.
• Not slicing ingredients correctly: Cutting onions and peppers too thick can result in uneven cooking. Aim for thin slices to ensure everything cooks evenly.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Stuffing too many ingredients in the slow cooker can prevent proper cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Ignoring the cheese melting step: Skipping the oven step for melting cheese will leave you with cold, unmelted slices. Always toast your hoagie rolls with cheese for that gooey texture.
• Not letting it cook long enough: Rushing the cooking time will lead to tougher meat. Allow at least 6 hours on low for tender, juicy beef.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and texture.

Freezing Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat sandwiches wrapped in foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Place sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks that might help you while cooking.

Can I use chicken instead of beef for Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breast or thigh strips for a lighter version of this dish.

What type of cheese works best?

Provolone is traditional, but you can also try mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer a different flavor.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks?

Feel free to add mushrooms, jalapeños, or different kinds of peppers according to your taste preferences!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use plant-based protein and vegetable broth along with your favorite veggies for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I keep my hoagie rolls from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, layer cheese on the bottom before adding meat and veggies. Toasting them also helps maintain their crispness.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteaks are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. This recipe opens the door to many delicious customization options; feel free to experiment with different vegetables and cheeses. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering, these cheesesteaks are sure to be a hit!