Introduction
The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic American dish that hails from the city of Philadelphia. Known for its thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, this savory sandwich has become a beloved comfort food across the nation. Its popularity stems not only from its rich flavors but also from its satisfying and hearty nature, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. However, what if we told you that you could enjoy all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a warm and comforting soup? Enter the Philly Cheesesteak Soup—a creative and delicious twist on a traditional favorite.
This soup version of the beloved sandwich captures the essence of the original while adding a cozy element that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a quiet night in. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a new staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to indulge in a comforting bowl on a chilly evening, Philly Cheesesteak Soup delivers satisfaction in every spoonful.
Overview of the Recipe
Philly Cheesesteak Soup combines all the classic elements of the sandwich into a rich, creamy dish that warms you from the inside out. The recipe features tender ribeye steak, sautéed vegetables, and a luscious broth that’s enriched with creamy heavy cream. The flavor profile is a delightful balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy, with a hint of umami from the mushrooms and Worcestershire sauce. Each bite offers a blend of textures, from the creamy base to the tender steak and fresh vegetables.
This soup is ideal for various occasions. Serve it as a hearty main dish for a weeknight family dinner, or ladle it into bowls for a casual gathering with friends. Pair it with a crusty baguette or some toasted bread for dipping to elevate the experience. No matter when you choose to serve it, this Philly Cheesesteak Soup is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredient Breakdown
To create a flavorful and satisfying Philly Cheesesteak Soup, you’ll need a variety of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the dish’s signature taste and texture. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key components:
Ribeye Steak
At the heart of this soup is the ribeye steak, renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor. Ribeye is well-marbled, which means it contains a good amount of fat that renders down during cooking, adding depth and richness to the soup. When sliced thinly, it cooks quickly and remains juicy, ensuring that every bite is tender and flavorful.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is essential for sautéing the vegetables and beef. It not only helps to cook the ingredients evenly but also adds a subtle fruity flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup. Using a good quality extra virgin olive oil can elevate the dish further, making it even more delightful.
Vegetables: Onion, Bell Peppers, and Garlic
The trio of onion, bell peppers, and garlic serves as the aromatic base for the soup.
– Onion: Offers sweetness and depth, cooking down to create a flavorful foundation.
– Bell Peppers: Add a pop of color and a sweet crunch, complementing the savory elements of the soup.
– Garlic: Infuses the dish with a warm, earthy flavor, enhancing the overall aroma and taste profile.
Beef Broth
Beef broth is the backbone of this soup, providing the necessary moisture and depth of flavor. A high-quality broth brings richness and enhances the meaty essence of the dish. You can use homemade broth or store-bought, but ensure it’s low-sodium to control the salt level in your final dish.
Heavy Cream
To achieve that creamy, indulgent texture, heavy cream is a must. It adds richness and a luxurious mouthfeel, transforming the broth into a comforting soup that coats the ingredients beautifully. This ingredient is what makes the Philly Cheesesteak Soup feel hearty and satisfying.
Worcestershire Sauce and Dried Oregano
These two ingredients are essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
– Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a complex umami flavor, contributing a hint of tanginess that balances the richness of the cream and beef.
– Dried Oregano: Introduces a subtle herbal note that complements the savory elements, rounding out the flavor profile.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms play a vital role in adding umami and texture to the soup. They absorb the flavors of the broth and provide a chewy contrast to the tender steak and vegetables. Use cremini or button mushrooms for a mild flavor that won’t overpower the dish.
Cheeses: Provolone and Cheddar
For that signature gooey, cheesy consistency, provolone and cheddar are the perfect choices.
– Provolone: Offers a mild, creamy flavor that melts beautifully, creating that classic cheesesteak experience.
– Cheddar: Provides a sharper taste that contrasts nicely with the other flavors, adding depth and richness.
Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley is essential for garnish, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens the dish. Its slightly peppery flavor complements the richness of the soup, making it a delightful finishing touch.
Crusty Bread or Baguette
Finally, a hearty crusty bread or baguette is a perfect accompaniment to the soup. It’s ideal for dipping into the creamy broth and adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth texture of the soup. Whether you choose to toast the bread or serve it fresh, it’s a must-have for a complete dining experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have a clear understanding of the ingredients and their roles, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for preparing this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients, ensuring everything is prepped and ready to go. Thinly slice the ribeye steak against the grain, chop the onion and bell peppers, and mince the garlic. Clean and slice the mushrooms, and measure out your broth, cream, and seasonings.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Brown the Steak: Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the pot and add the sliced ribeye steak. Allow it to sear without stirring for a minute to develop a nice brown color. Then, stir the steak with the vegetables, cooking until the meat is browned on the outside but still tender. This process should take about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, followed by the Worcestershire sauce and dried oregano. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Incorporate the Cream: After allowing the soup to simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, it’s time to add the heavy cream. Stir it in slowly, ensuring it blends well with the broth. The cream will give the soup its rich and creamy texture, making it irresistibly comforting.
6. Melt the Cheeses: Lastly, add the provolone and cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheeses have melted completely and the soup reaches a creamy, smooth consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Garnish: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve alongside crusty bread or baguette for dipping. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this Philly Cheesesteak Soup while it’s hot.
By following these steps, you will create a delicious and satisfying Philly Cheesesteak Soup that captures the essence of the classic sandwich in every bowl. As you enjoy your creation, you’ll appreciate the harmony of flavors and textures that this comforting dish brings to the table.
Searing the Steak
Searing the steak is an essential step in creating a flavorful base for your Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Browning the meat not only enhances its flavor through the Maillard reaction but also adds depth to the overall taste of the soup. To achieve the perfect sear, start with high-quality steak, such as ribeye or flank steak, which are both tender and flavorful choices.
Begin by cutting the steak into thin strips against the grain, ensuring each piece is uniform in size. This will help them cook evenly and remain tender. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steak in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. This allows for better browning. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes without moving it, allowing a crust to form before flipping and cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. Once browned, remove the steak from the pot and set it aside, leaving behind the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
Sautéing Vegetables
Next, it’s time to sauté the vegetables, which will add flavor and texture to the soup. Classic Philly cheesesteak toppings like onions and bell peppers are essential in this step. Start by reducing the heat to medium, then add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in the diced onions first, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and begin to caramelize. This step enhances their sweetness, which will contribute to the overall flavor of the soup.
Next, add sliced bell peppers (green, red, or yellow) to the pot. Cook them for another 3-4 minutes until they soften but still maintain a slight crunch. To elevate the flavors, consider adding minced garlic during the last minute of sautéing. This will infuse the oil with a rich aroma that will enhance the soup’s profile.
Combining Broth and Seasonings
After the vegetables have reached the desired texture, it’s time to deglaze the pot. This step is crucial for building a robust broth. Pour in beef broth (or chicken broth if you prefer), scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release those flavorful browned bits. This process adds a depth of flavor that is particularly important in a soup.
Once the broth is in, return the seared steak to the pot and stir in seasonings such as Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. These ingredients will enhance the savory notes of the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together beautifully.
Simmering the Soup
Timing and heat control are pivotal during the simmering process. A gentle simmer allows for the flavors to develop without overcooking the meat, which can result in toughness. As the soup simmers, check it occasionally, stirring gently to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
If you find the broth too concentrated, feel free to add a little extra water or broth. The goal here is to achieve a balance of flavors and textures, so adjust according to your taste preferences. After about 15 minutes of simmering, the steak should be tender and the soup infused with the rich flavors of the seasoning and vegetables.
Melting the Cheeses
The final step in creating a luxurious texture in your Philly Cheesesteak Soup is melting the cheese. Traditionally, provolone or Cheez Whiz is used in a cheesesteak, but you can mix and match based on your preference. For a creamy finish, add shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese to the soup when it’s off the heat. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a rich, creamy texture.
If you prefer a sharper flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan or a dollop of cream cheese for additional richness. For a spicy kick, incorporate pepper jack cheese, which will add both creaminess and heat. The goal is to create a luscious, cheesy soup that captures the essence of the classic sandwich.
Final Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key when serving your Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has an ample amount of steak, vegetables, and that irresistible cheese. For added flair, top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or chives, which not only adds color but also a fresh taste.
Serve the soup with crusty bread or toasted hoagie rolls on the side for dipping. This combination not only enhances the experience but also complements the comforting nature of the dish. You can also provide additional toppings such as extra cheese, hot sauce, or pickled jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Philly Cheesesteak Soup, it’s always good to be mindful of its nutritional profile. A typical serving of this savory soup contains approximately:
– Calories: 350-400
– Protein: 25-30 grams
– Fats: 18-22 grams
– Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
This comforting soup offers a balanced mix of protein from the steak and cheese, with moderate fats and carbohydrates from the broth and any added bread. It’s suitable for various diets, especially when made with lean cuts of meat and low-fat cheese, allowing for a hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Variations and Customizations
One of the joys of making soup is the ability to customize it to your liking. Here are some suggestions for variations and customizations:
– Different Cuts of Meat: While ribeye and flank steak are traditional choices, you can experiment with sirloin or even chicken for a lighter version. Thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs will still yield a satisfying result.
– Adding More Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. These can enhance the texture and flavor while boosting the vitamins and minerals in your soup.
– Dairy-Free Alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute traditional cream and cheese with cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.
– Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also add a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
Storing and Reheating the Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers (or if you’re preparing in advance), here are some best practices for storing and reheating your Philly Cheesesteak Soup:
– Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions to enjoy later.
– Reheating: When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the texture of the ingredients. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup celebrates the classic flavors of a beloved sandwich while providing a nourishing option for family and friends.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it up for a cozy gathering, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare. Embrace the joy of cooking and the satisfaction of creating homemade soups that resonate with comfort and flavor. Try this recipe today, and savor the delightful combination of steak, cheese, and hearty vegetables in every spoonful.