This easy, at-home Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak is a game-changer. Ideal for lunch or dinner, kid-friendly, and incredibly satisfying, this simple version is straightforward to prepare and destined to become a favorite.
What is the history of Philly Cheesesteak
Philly cheesesteak is a classic sandwich closely associated with Philadelphia. Most accounts trace its origin to Pat and Harry Olivieri, two South Philly brothers who created the sandwich in the 1930s. Their creation quickly gained popularity and became a regional staple.
The traditional sandwich typically uses thinly sliced rib eye or top round, and in Philadelphia the most common cheese choice has long been Cheez Whiz.
Why we love Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
This variation replaces thin-sliced steak with ground beef for an accessible, family-friendly twist. Instead of a griddle, the meat and vegetables are cooked in a skillet, then assembled and baked in the oven. The result is all the savory flavor of a Philly cheesesteak with less fuss.
It’s an excellent at-home alternative if you love the flavors of a traditional cheesesteak but want something quicker and easier to prepare.
Here are the components of Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
In this recipe we use ground beef as an easy substitute for sliced steak. Ground beef provides great flavor and texture while keeping the recipe budget-friendly.
The vegetables are classic cheesesteak staples: sautéed green pepper and onion. Instead of Cheez Whiz, this version uses provolone cheese, which melts beautifully into the warm beef and vegetables. The bread is spread with mayonnaise to add flavor and help protect the roll from sogginess during baking.
How to make Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
- Heat a skillet over medium-high and add the ground beef. Brown until no pink remains, then drain excess fat.
- Add sliced onion, sliced green pepper, steak seasoning, grated garlic, and salt and pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Whisk cornstarch into the beef broth, then pour the mixture into the pan. Simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of the loaf and layer with four slices of provolone.
- Top with the meat and vegetable mixture, then add four more slices of provolone.
- Spread mayonnaise on the top half of the bread, close the sandwich, and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through.
- Unwrap, slice, and serve immediately while hot.
Looking for a Low-Carb Option?
For a low-carb alternative, try stuffing the same seasoned beef and vegetables into halved bell peppers instead of bread. You’ll keep the savory, cheesy flavor while reducing carbs and adding vegetables.
Common Questions about Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Use 80/20 ground beef for juiciness and avoid overcooking. Sautéing the meat with onions helps retain moisture, and adding a splash of beef broth while cooking or when reheating will keep the mixture tender and flavorful.
The classic vegetables are sautéed onions and bell peppers. Mushrooms are a popular addition for extra umami, and pickled or fresh hot peppers can add tang and heat if you like spice.
Yes. Prepare the seasoned ground beef mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet, adding a bit of beef broth if needed to refresh the texture.
Toast the rolls briefly before assembling to create a barrier against moisture. Let the meat mixture drain slightly before adding it to the bread, and spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on the roll helps protect it while adding flavor.
Other sandwich recipes to try
If you’re looking for more simple, flavorful sandwiches, try these ideas for inspiration.
Spinach and Artichoke Grilled Cheese
Broccoli Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Turkey Caprese Sandwiches
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Ingredients
- 24 ounces lean ground beef
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 green pepper, sliced
- 1 Tablespoon steak seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low sodium beef broth
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 large French bread loaf (or choice of bread)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 8–12 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain fat if necessary.
- Add the sliced onion, green pepper, steak seasoning, grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
- Stir cornstarch into the beef broth until dissolved, then add to the skillet. Simmer 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of the loaf and layer with four slices of provolone.
- Add the meat and vegetable mixture, then top with the remaining provolone slices.
- Spread mayonnaise on the top half of the loaf, close the sandwich, wrap in foil, and bake at 375°F for 30–35 minutes.
- Slice and serve immediately while hot.
Equipment
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.