If you’re looking for a delicious and simple meal that requires minimal effort, look no further than this Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The combination of tender beef, bell peppers, onions, and gooey cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day. Simply set it and forget it! You can customize this recipe according to your preferences by adding your favorite toppings or spices. Whether you serve it on a hoagie roll or over rice, this scrumptious meal will impress even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to enjoy an easy yet unforgettable dining experience!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Thinly Sliced Beef: Use ribeye or sirloin for the best flavor and tenderness; around 1.5 pounds works well.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of green and red bell peppers adds color and sweetness; slice them evenly to ensure they cook properly.
- Onion: One large onion adds depth of flavor; slice it thinly so it blends well with the other ingredients.
- Provolone Cheese: About 8 ounces of provolone cheese gives that classic cheesesteak taste; feel free to use mozzarella if preferred.
- Soy Sauce: About a quarter cup adds umami flavor; opt for low-sodium soy sauce if watching salt intake.
- Garlic Powder: One teaspoon enhances overall flavor; fresh garlic can be used as an alternative.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by slicing the beef into thin strips if not pre-sliced. Slice the bell peppers and onion while ensuring uniform sizes for even cooking in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Place the sliced beef, bell peppers, onion, garlic powder, and soy sauce into the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Set Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for about six hours or on high heat for three hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cheese
About ten minutes before serving time, sprinkle provolone cheese over the top of the mixture in the slow cooker. Cover again until melted.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked through and cheese is melted, stir gently to combine everything once more.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times.
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results.
- Topping Options: Consider adding jalapeños or sautéed mushrooms as tasty toppings.
How to Serve Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
This Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the beef and vegetables in advance. Slice the beef and chop onions and peppers, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This saves time on the day you plan to serve your Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, place leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish, covering it loosely, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, checking periodically to ensure even heating.
Suggestions for Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
Avoid Overcooking the Meat
One common mistake when preparing an Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is overcooking the meat. Slow cookers work at low temperatures, allowing flavors to meld and tenderize the beef. However, if you leave it too long, the meat can become dry and tough. Aim for a cooking time of about 6 to 8 hours on low heat. Check the beef’s doneness around the 5-hour mark to ensure you achieve that tender texture without sacrificing moisture.
Choosing the Wrong Cut of Beef
Selecting the right cut of beef is crucial for your Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe. Opt for cuts like flank steak or ribeye, which are known for their tenderness and flavor. Avoid lean cuts such as sirloin, as they lack sufficient fat content to keep the meat juicy during cooking. Trim any excess fat but leave enough to enhance flavor and moisture. Properly slicing against the grain after cooking will also contribute significantly to achieving a delicious cheesesteak.
Neglecting Seasoning
Seasoning is key in any recipe, especially in an Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe. Many people forget to season their ingredients before cooking, resulting in bland flavors. Use a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a robust taste. Don’t hesitate to add bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance flavor further; just remember to season them too! Tasting as you go can help adjust flavors before serving.
Skipping the Cheese Layer
A great cheesesteak isn’t complete without cheese! Skipping this step is a mistake many make when preparing an Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe. Opt for provolone or Cheez Whiz for that classic touch. After cooking, layer your chosen cheese on top of the beef in the slow cooker during the last 15 minutes of cooking time. This allows it to melt beautifully into your dish and elevate its overall flavor profile.
FAQs
What kind of bread is best for Philly cheesesteaks?
When it comes to an Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe, choosing the right bread is essential for delivering authentic flavor and texture. The traditional choice is a hoagie roll or an Italian sub roll; these breads offer a soft interior with a slight crust that holds up well under the weight of your fillings. You can also opt for Amoroso rolls if available, as they are known for their authenticity in Philadelphia-style sandwiches. Additionally, consider lightly toasting your bread before adding fillings; this adds extra flavor and prevents sogginess from the beef juices.
Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of beef?
Yes! You can easily adapt your Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe by using chicken instead of beef. Chicken breast or thighs work well as alternatives because they absorb flavors beautifully when cooked slowly. Just adjust your cooking time; chicken typically cooks faster than beef—about 4-6 hours on low heat should suffice. To maintain that classic cheesesteak feel, still use cheese and toppings like sautéed onions and peppers.
How do I store leftovers from my Philly cheesesteak?
Storing leftovers from your Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe requires some care to maintain freshness and flavor. Allow any leftover meat and cheese mixture to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage—up to three months works well here too! When reheating, add some moisture (like broth) if needed so that it doesn’t dry out; warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Can I customize my toppings?
Absolutely! Customizing toppings is one of the joys of making an Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe at home! While traditional toppings include sautéed onions, bell peppers, and cheese, feel free to get creative according to your preference! Mushrooms add earthiness; jalapeños give spice; avocado offers creaminess—let your taste guide you! Just keep in mind that some ingredients might require different preparation methods or cooking times to ensure everything melds together perfectly.
Conclusion for Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
In summary, creating an Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe involves several key steps that ensure maximum flavor while avoiding common pitfalls. Start by selecting a tender cut of beef like flank steak or ribeye and be cautious not to overcook it. Proper seasoning plays an essential role in elevating flavors—don’t overlook this step! Incorporating cheese towards the end enhances richness while using quality bread completes this iconic dish perfectly. With these tips in mind, you’ll craft a delicious cheesesteak that impresses everyone at your table while enjoying every bite yourself!
Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Savor the delightful flavors of this Easy Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Recipe, a perfect dish for busy weeknights and casual gatherings. Featuring tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and rich provolone cheese, this recipe simplifies mealtime with minimal prep. Just slice your ingredients, combine them in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Whether served on a soft hoagie roll or over rice, this scrumptious meal is sure to have everyone asking for seconds. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spices for a personalized touch that caters to all tastes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin)
- 2 bell peppers (green and red)
- 1 large onion
- 8 oz provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Slice beef, bell peppers, and onion into even strips.
- Combine all ingredients except cheese in the slow cooker; stir until well mixed.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- About 10 minutes before serving, add provolone cheese on top; cover until melted.
- Serve warm on rolls, over rice, or with your choice of sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (160g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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