When the craving for comfort food strikes, there’s nothing quite like a classic cheesesteak to deliver that satisfying punch. What if I told you that you could enjoy this indulgent treat entirely plant-based? Enter my Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with chewy seitan—a showstopper that takes under 25 minutes to prepare! Picture this: Layers of tender sautéed peppers and onions harmonizing with luscious, creamy vegan cheese sauce, all nestled within a perfectly toasted hoagie roll.
I whipped up this recipe one evening after realizing I had just a handful of ingredients on hand but still wanted something hearty and delicious. To my delight, the result was a mouthwatering blend that brought the essence of the traditional Philly cheesesteak right to my kitchen without the guilt. Whether you’re a passionate chef or someone looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, this recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also leave you eager for more. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this vegan delight!
Why are Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with Seitan irresistible?
Flavor-packed experience: Each bite showcases a perfect blend of sautéed peppers and onions, accented by a rich vegan cheese sauce that dreams are made of.
Quick and easy: In under 25 minutes, you can whip up this plant-based delight, ideal for those busy weeknights.
Customizable ingredients: With options like mushrooms or different vegan cheeses, you can tailor this recipe to fit your cravings.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, these cheesesteaks are bound to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Guilt-free indulgence: Enjoy the comfort of a classic cheesesteak without compromising your dietary choices. Dive into the deliciousness with joy!
Vegan Philly Cheesesteak Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create your very own Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with Seitan!
For the Filling
- Vegan Seitan Beef – Main protein source providing a chewy, meaty texture. Use homemade or store-bought seitan; for an inspired alternative, substitute with portobello or button mushrooms.
- Green Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch. Can substitute with other bell pepper colors or hot peppers for a spicy kick.
- Yellow Onion – Contributes flavor and sweetness through caramelization. Shallots or red onion can be used depending on preference.
- Minced Garlic – Enhances overall flavor. Use fresh cloves for the best taste; garlic powder is a substitute.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Vegan Butter – Used for spreading on the rolls and in the cheese sauce. Can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter option.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce. Gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk – Adds creaminess to the cheese sauce. Use any non-dairy milk like soy milk or oat milk.
- Vegan Provolone (or other vegan cheese) – Provides creamy, gooey texture. Swiss or mozzarella alternatives will work as well.
For the Hoagie Rolls
- Hoagie Rolls – Base for the sandwich, ideally soft and fresh. Look for vegan sub rolls in the bakery section of your grocery store.
How to Make Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with Seitan
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Prepare the Seitan: If using homemade seitan, whip it up according to your favorite recipe. For store-bought, slice it thinly and set it aside for assembly.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add sliced onions and green peppers. Sauté for about 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are tender and slightly charred. Don’t hesitate to add a splash of water if they begin to stick.
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Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate pot, melt the vegan butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
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Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the unsweetened almond milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, then stir in vegan provolone until it’s melted and smooth. For an ultra-creamy texture, feel free to blend the sauce!
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Toast the Hoagie Rolls: Mix a small amount of minced garlic into the vegan butter and spread it on the insides of the hoagie rolls. Toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
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Assemble the Cheesesteaks: Open each toasted hoagie roll and spread a generous layer of cheese sauce. Layer on the cooked seitan, followed by the sautéed peppers and onions. Drizzle with even more cheese sauce if desired. Enjoy while warm for the best flavor!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists and additions that will make your Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks truly your own!
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Mushroom Swap: Substitute seitan with portobello or cremini mushrooms for an earthy, umami-packed flavor. The mushrooms will absorb the rich seasonings beautifully.
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Spicy Option: Add jalapeños or sliced banana peppers to the sautéed veggies for a zesty kick. This addition enhances the excitement and brings some heat to your sandwich.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves instead of hoagie rolls for a lighter, gluten-free version. Imagine wrapping those delicious fillings in refreshing lettuce for a crisp bite!
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Smoky Cheese: Opt for a smoky vegan cheese variant to deepen the flavor profile. It introduces a whole new layer of complexity that will keep your taste buds dancing.
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Herbed Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of herbed vegan cream cheese inside the hoagie rolls for added creaminess and flavor. It creates a delightful creaminess in every bite!
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Textured Tempeh: Swap in crumbled tempeh for added fiber and protein, giving a nutty flavor twist. The texture pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese sauce.
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Caramelized Onions: Instead of sautéing, try caramelizing your onions to enhance their sweetness, adding a gourmet touch to your cheesesteak experience. You’ll be amazed at how deeply flavorful they become!
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Sweet Peppers: Experiment with roasted red or yellow peppers for a different sweet note and vibrant color, bringing a joyful burst of flavor that beautifully complements the savory ingredients.
Storage Tips for Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with Seitan
Fridge: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 5-7 days. This keeps your seitan and veggies fresh while preventing sogginess in the rolls.
Freezer: The seitan can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container to maintain quality.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the seitan in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Toast the hoagie rolls again before assembling for a delightful crunch.
Cheese Sauce Storage: If making cheese sauce in advance, store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of almond milk to thin it out if necessary.
What to Serve with Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with Seitan?
Creating a full and festive meal around these vegan delights will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dining experience.
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Crispy Homemade French Fries: These golden, crunchy fries are the perfect accompaniment, offering a delightful contrast to the soft cheesesteaks. Dip them in your favorite sauce for an extra kick.
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Zesty Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheesesteaks beautifully. The crispness adds a refreshing touch to your meal.
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Roasted Veggies: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables bring a smoky flavor that enhances the cheesesteak’s savory profile. Their caramelized edges provide a delightful mix of textures to the meal.
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Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges offer a slightly sweet counterpart that complements the savory cheesesteaks. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the cheese sauce.
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Vegan Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a vibrant pop of color and tang that contrasts perfectly with the rich, creamy cheesesteak. It’s a light and refreshing option that rounds out your meal.
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Craft Beer or Iced Tea: A crisp, refreshing craft beer or iced herbal tea enhances the flavors of the cheesesteak, making each bite even more enjoyable. Choose a light beer to keep things refreshing!
Embrace the joy of hearty, satisfying flavors that will keep you returning for more!
Expert Tips for Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks
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Slice Thinly: Cut the seitan into thin strips for a more authentic texture that mimics traditional cheesesteaks.
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Perfectly Creamy Sauce: For an extra smooth vegan cheese sauce, consider blending it after melting the cheese for a velvety finish.
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Toast Those Rolls: Always toast your hoagie rolls to golden perfection; it enhances flavor and keeps the sandwich from getting soggy.
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Customize Fillings: Feel free to mix in different vegetables or proteins, such as mushrooms or tempeh; both work beautifully in these Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with Seitan.
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Season Well: Don’t shy away from seasoning the seitan and veggies while cooking—adding a little salt and pepper elevates the overall flavor.
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Store Properly: For meal prep, store components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and reheat easily.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with Seitan are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the sautéed onions and peppers up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the creamy vegan cheese sauce 24 hours ahead; just ensure it’s stored in a separate container to maintain its smooth texture. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the veggies and cheese sauce gently on the stove. Toast the hoagie rolls fresh for a delightful crunch, and then assemble your sandwiches in no time, leaving you with a hearty meal that’s just as delicious as when first made!
Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with Seitan Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right seitan?
Absolutely! When selecting seitan, look for options that have a chewy, meaty texture, whether you choose homemade or store-bought. If you opt for store-bought, read the labels for a minimal ingredient list, which usually indicates better quality. If you’re going for a non-inspired alternative, portobello or button mushrooms are fantastic choices!
What’s the best way to store the leftovers?
Very good question! Store the components of your Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks separately in airtight containers. In the fridge, they’ll last for about 5-7 days. To keep the rolls from getting soggy, it’s best to store them separately from the seitan and veggies. Just reheat those components when you’re ready to enjoy again!
Can I freeze the assembled cheesesteaks?
Definitely! The seitan can be frozen for up to 3 months. I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. However, I suggest freezing the seitan and cheese sauce separately from the hoagie rolls to maintain their freshness and texture.
What should I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your cheese sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit more unsweetened almond milk (or whichever non-dairy milk you’re using) slowly while whisking over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will help incorporate the liquid without losing that creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing these Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks for friends or family, be aware of any allergies, particularly to gluten since seitan is wheat-based. For gluten-free options, consider substituting seitan with tempeh or portobello mushrooms and using gluten-free wraps. Also, always check your vegan cheese for allergens, as some are made with nuts or soy.
How do I enhance the flavor of my cheesesteaks?
Great question! To elevate the flavor, be sure to season the seitan and veggies while cooking with salt, pepper, and perhaps a sprinkle of smoked paprika or garlic powder. Additionally, you can sauté the vegetables in a little soy sauce or add a dash of hot sauce for a bit of kick, making your Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks even more irresistible!
Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks with Seitan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Seitan: Slice thinly if using store-bought seitan or whip up homemade.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, add sliced onions and green peppers, sauté for 5-8 minutes until tender.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt vegan butter in a pot, whisk in flour and then gradually add almond milk.
- Add the Milk: Gradually pour in almond milk while whisking to prevent lumps and stir in cheese until melted.
- Toast the Hoagie Rolls: Mix minced garlic into butter, spread on hoagie insides and toast until golden.
- Assemble the Cheesesteaks: Spread cheese sauce in each hoagie, layer with seitan and sautéed veggies, add more sauce and enjoy.