There’s something irresistibly comforting about the rich aroma of Philly Cheesesteak Soup wafting through my kitchen, particularly on those chilly evenings when all I want is a warm, satisfying meal. Picture tender strips of sirloin steak, sautéed bell peppers, and that luscious, creamy cheese sauce blending together to create a bowl that tastes just like your favorite sandwich – but in soup form!
This recipe is a delightful twist on the beloved classic, combining the satisfying heartiness of a cheesesteak with the soothing warmth of a soup, making it perfect for both family dinners and cozy nights in. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, ensuring you can whip it up even on the busiest of evenings. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s transform ordinary weeknight cooking into something truly special!
Why is Philly Cheesesteak Soup so special?
Comforting Delight: This Philly Cheesesteak Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, delivering all the flavor of a classic sandwich.
Easy to Prepare: You don’t need to be a gourmet chef; this recipe is designed for ease, making weeknight cooking a breeze!
Hearty Goodness: With tender steak and fresh veggies, it’s not just delicious but also filling, perfect for the whole family.
Versatile Flavor: Customize it to your taste with various toppings or spice levels, keeping meal times exciting.
Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores wonderfully, allowing you to savor leftovers that taste just as great the next day!
Crowd Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or cozy nights in; it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Philly Cheesesteak Soup Ingredients
Get ready to create a comforting bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Soup with these essential ingredients!
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – For sautéing; helps release flavors from the vegetables.
• Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; essential for the base flavor.
• Green Bell Pepper – Adds crunch and slight bitterness; can substitute with other peppers.
• Red Bell Pepper – Sweetness and color; can substitute with other peppers.
• Sirloin Steak – Main protein source; tender cuts recommended. Substitute with ribeye or flank steak for different flavors.
• Beef Broth – Liquid base that infuses deep, savory flavors; use low-sodium to control saltiness.
• Diced Tomatoes – Adds acidity and texture; can substitute with fresh tomatoes.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami; consider soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Dried Thyme – Herbal note; can substitute with oregano or Italian seasoning.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional heat; adjust to taste.
• Butter – Starting fat for the cheese sauce; essential for flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce; no substitute recommended for desired texture.
For the Cheese Sauce
• Milk – Forms the base of the cheese sauce; whole milk gives creaminess, but can use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives.
• Cream Cheese – Contributes richness and creaminess; can use mascarpone as an alternative.
• Shredded Provolone Cheese – Provides the traditional cheesesteak flavor; can substitute with cheddar or gouda.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Adds elasticity; optional for a lighter soup.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Enhance the savory depth; fresh alternatives can be used.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste.
For Serving
• Crusty Rolls – Perfect for dipping, enhancing the cheesesteak experience.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Garnish for freshness and color.
• Extra Cheese (Provolone or Mozzarella) – Optional for a delectable topping.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy, heartwarming bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Soup!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Soup
-
Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, sauté the onion and bell peppers until softened, about 8-10 minutes. The aroma will be delightful!
-
Brown Steak: Add sliced sirloin to the pot; increase the heat. Cook in batches to ensure the steak browns nicely without steaming, which helps to develop great flavor and texture.
-
Add Liquid: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and scrape up any browned bits from the pot’s bottom. This adds to the soup’s depth of flavor.
-
Season: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, and season generously with salt and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes, or longer if you want enhanced flavors.
-
Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which thickens the cheese sauce beautifully.
-
Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth and thickened. The creamy goodness forms the heart of your cheesesteak soup!
-
Mix in Cheese: Stir in the cream cheese until it melts fully. Gradually add the shredded provolone and mozzarella, mixing until the cheese is completely smooth and creamy.
-
Combine: Gently fold the cheese sauce into the soup base, combining carefully to avoid boiling, which can cause the cheese to separate. A gentle stir will do!
-
Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth to reach your desired texture. If it’s too thin, let it simmer over low heat to reduce.
-
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with extra cheese and a sprinkle of parsley. Serve alongside crusty rolls for dipping—pure comfort food bliss!
Optional: Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Philly Cheesesteak Soup Variations
Embrace your creativity and make this recipe truly yours with delightful twists and substitutions!
-
Chicken Swap: Replace sirloin with diced chicken breast for a lighter protein option that’s equally satisfying. It will still deliver that comforting cheesesteak vibe!
-
Veggie Boost: Add sliced mushrooms or additional veggies like zucchini and carrots for a nutrition-packed twist that enhances flavor and texture.
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the heat. This adds an exciting layer that spice lovers will adore!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the cheese sauce without compromising taste or texture.
-
Herb Infusion: Freshen the flavor profile by using fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of dried thyme, providing a vibrant, garden-like taste.
-
Different Cheeses: Explore flavor variations by using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and fontina for a richer, creamier cheese sauce that tantalizes your taste buds.
-
Vegan Version: Opt for plant-based alternatives like cashew cream for the cheese sauce and lentils instead of beef to transform this into a hearty vegan delight.
-
Creamy Substitutes: For a lighter fare, swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt, maintaining a creamy texture while reducing calories without sacrificing flavor!
What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Imagine yourself cuddled up with a warm, hearty bowl of soup – but let’s take it to the next level with perfect pairings.
-
Crusty Rolls: A must-have for dipping! Their rough exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, making each bite simply divine.
-
Garlic Bread: Toasted and buttery, this bread adds a robust garlic flavor that complements the cheesiness of the soup, enhancing each spoonful.
-
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, balancing the meal beautifully.
-
Pickles: A bit of tartness from pickles elevates the flavors, cutting through the richness, making them a delightful bite alongside the soup.
-
French Fries: Crispy, golden fries are perfect to dunk into the cheesy goodness. Plus, who can resist a classic combo of soup and fries?
-
Sangria: This fruity, refreshing drink brings a lightness to the meal, allowing the comfort of the soup to shine even more brightly.
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note! These warm, gooey cookies make a perfect dessert after savoring that delightful Philly Cheesesteak Soup.
Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Soup
-
Choose Quality Meat: Use tender sirloin steak, slicing against the grain to ensure every bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
-
Perfect Sautéing: Sauté your onions and bell peppers until they’re caramelized for deeper flavor, which is crucial for making an amazing Philly Cheesesteak Soup.
-
Control the Heat: When combining the cheese sauce with the soup, avoid boiling. Gentle stirring will keep the texture creamy and intact without separation.
-
Adjust the Thickness: If your soup is thicker than desired, simply add extra beef broth gradually until you reach the perfect consistency.
-
Customize Flavors: Feel free to explore additional toppings like sautéed mushrooms or hot sauce to personalize your Philly Cheesesteak Soup to your taste!
Make Ahead Options
Philly Cheesesteak Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and cook the soup base up to 24 hours in advance; simply sauté the onions and peppers, brown the steak, and let the broth simmer. For optimal flavor, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, prepare the creamy cheese sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour and milk, then combine it with your prepped soup base over low heat. This ensures your soup maintains its rich, delicious quality, elevating your dinner with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
-
Freezer: This Philly Cheesesteak Soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.
-
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of beef broth to maintain a creamy texture.
-
Tips for Best Results: Reheat just until simmering, avoid boiling after adding dairy to prevent separation of the cheese sauce. Enjoy your cozy leftovers!
Philly Cheesesteak Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right sirloin steak for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing sirloin steak, look for cuts that are bright red with a bit of marbling—this fat will melt into the soup, adding flavor and tenderness. Avoid steaks that have a lot of dark spots or browning, as they may be less fresh. You can also consider using ribeye or flank steak for a different flavor profile!
What’s the best way to store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure that the soup has cooled down completely before sealing it. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly.
Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup? If so, how?
Yes! This soup freezes wonderfully. To freeze, portion out the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers—ensure there’s a bit of space at the top for expansion while freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to get a creamy texture.
What can I do if my soup turns out too thick?
If your soup is thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Just add a little beef broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Stir gently and allow it to heat through. Avoid boiling the soup once you add any dairy ingredients, as this can cause the cheese sauce to separate and affect the overall texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Good question! This recipe is meat-based and includes dairy, which may not be suitable for everyone. If anyone in your household has lactose intolerance, you might consider using lactose-free milk and cheese alternatives. Also, if you have anyone with gluten sensitivities, ensure to use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for the roux.
What should I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
I often recommend pairing it with crusty rolls or toasted garlic bread for the ultimate dipping experience. For a lighter touch, you could serve it alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness of the soup. Feel free to get creative with toppings as well!
Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Soup: Cozy Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, add olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, sauté the onion and bell peppers until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add sliced sirloin to the pot; increase the heat. Cook in batches to ensure the steak browns nicely without steaming.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and scrape up any browned bits from the pot's bottom.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, and season generously with salt and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the cream cheese until it melts fully. Gradually add the shredded provolone and mozzarella, mixing until the cheese is completely smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold the cheese sauce into the soup base, combining carefully to avoid boiling.
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth to reach your desired texture.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with extra cheese and a sprinkle of parsley. Serve alongside crusty rolls for dipping.