The allure of a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day is nearly universal, but when that soup embodies the essence of a classic Philly cheesesteak, it transforms into an unrivaled comfort food experience. Philly Cheesesteak Soup combines all the savory flavors you love in a cheesesteak with the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty soup, making it an excellent meal for any occasion. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a unique dish to impress your friends.

Why make this recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a pot of Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Firstly, it brilliantly captures the iconic taste of a Philly cheesesteak, featuring tender steak, gooey cheese, and vibrant vegetables, offering a delicious twist on a beloved classic. Secondly, it’s a one-pot wonder, simplifying your cooking process while maximizing flavor. Lastly, it’s a customizable dish—vary the ingredients and toppings to reflect your personal taste or dietary preferences. Whether you’re craving something hearty or looking for a comforting dish during the colder months, this soup is the definitive choice.

How to make Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Creating this delectable Philly Cheesesteak Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to bask in the rich, cheesy goodness of this unique dish.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 pound sirloin steak, thinly sliced (against the grain)
8 cups beef broth
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
8 ounces shredded provolone cheese
4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Crusty rolls, for dipping
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers (both green and red). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring frequently, until the steak is browned. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot; you may need to do this in batches.
Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour.
While the soup is simmering, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Reduce the heat to low, then add the softened cream cheese, stirring until melted. Add the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses, a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is melted.
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as preferred.
Pour the cheese sauce into the soup base, stirring constantly until combined. Heat through, being careful not to boil.
If the soup is too thick, add more beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
Ladle the Philly Cheesesteak Soup into bowls. Top with extra cheese and chopped parsley, serving immediately with crusty rolls for dipping.

How to serve Philly Cheesesteak Soup

This soup is best enjoyed hot and is perfect for a cozy evening meal. Serve it in bowls, topped with additional cheese and fresh parsley for a pop of color. Offer crusty rolls on the side, perfect for dipping into the creamy, cheesy broth. For a touch of elegance, consider presenting the soup in rustic bread bowls for a fun and interactive dining experience.

How to store Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat and stir until warmed through. If you find the soup has thickened in the fridge, add a bit of beef broth to thin it back to your desired consistency.

Tips to make Philly Cheesesteak Soup

For the best flavor, choose well-marbled sirloin steak, which adds richness to the soup.
Customize the vegetables to include mushrooms or zucchini if you like.
For added heat, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance.
If you don’t have provolone cheese, mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses will work splendidly.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe to suit dietary needs or preferences. For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of steak. To make it vegetarian, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based cream cheese and cheeses. For a dairy-free version, explore using cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese substitute.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add more red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even sauté some jalapeños with the vegetables for an extra kick.

3. How do I thicken the soup?
If you want a thicker soup, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) during the simmering stage, or simply let it cook uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid.

Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this Philly Cheesesteak Soup, an easy and satisfying dish that is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.