After a long day, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy comfort to soothe the soul. Enter my Philly Cheesesteak Soup—an unexpected twist on a classic favorite that brings all the savory goodness of a cheesesteak straight to your spoon. Imagine the aroma of sautéed onions and peppers mingling with tender slices of beef, all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy broth. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm hug.
This dish transforms the hearty flavors of a Philly cheesesteak into a comforting soup that’s not only easy to whip up but also perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—each bowl can be personalized with your favorite toppings or substitutors while maintaining the unforgettable essence of that iconic sandwich. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into a warm, satisfying bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Soup that will leave you craving more!
Why is Philly Cheesesteak Soup a must-try?
Comforting warmth: This creamy soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Rich, savory flavors: The blend of sautéed onions, peppers, and tender beef creates a delightful symphony of taste that delights every bite.
Versatile options: Customize your experience by adding toppings like sour cream or hot sauce, making each bowl uniquely yours.
Easy to prepare: Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy home-cooked goodness without the fuss.
Family-friendly: Everyone will love this hearty meal, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for dinners or gatherings.
Don’t forget to check out different variations you can try to elevate your soup game even further!
Philly Cheesesteak Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing vegetables; can be replaced with vegetable oil or butter if preferred.
- Onion (1 large, chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Green Bell Pepper (1, chopped) – Provides a crunchy texture and slightly bitter flavor.
- Red Bell Pepper (1, chopped) – Offers sweetness and a pop of color.
- Sirloin Steak (1 lb, thinly sliced) – This is the main protein; ribeye or flank steak can be used as a substitute.
- Beef Broth (8 cups) – Serves as the soup base; opt for low-sodium for better control over salt.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, undrained) – Adds moisture and acidity that balances the flavors.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp) – Intensifies the flavor profile, making it richer.
- Dried Thyme (1/2 tsp) – Contributes earthy notes to the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 tsp) – An optional extra for those who crave a little heat.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Adjust to taste for enhancing overall flavor.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Butter (4 tbsp) – Used to create the cheese sauce base.
- All-purpose Flour (4 tbsp) – Helps thicken the cheese sauce for a creamy consistency.
- Milk (3 cups) – Choose whole or low-fat milk as the foundation for the cheese sauce.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Adds that signature creaminess to the soup.
- Provolone Cheese (8 oz, shredded) – Essential for achieving that mouthwatering cheesesteak flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese (4 oz, shredded) – Melts beautifully, adding stretch and creaminess.
- Garlic Powder (1/4 tsp) – Enhances the flavor with a robust depth.
- Onion Powder (1/4 tsp) – Boosts the base flavor, making it even more savory.
For Toppings
- Chopped Fresh Parsley – A fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the dish.
- Crusty Rolls – Perfect for dipping; while optional, they are highly recommended for a complete experience.
Whether you’re warming up with a bowl after a long day or serving it up for family dinner, this Philly Cheesesteak Soup is bound to become a new favorite!
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Soup
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Heat oil: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and both bell peppers, sautéing until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Watch for a slight caramelization to enhance sweetness.
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Cook beef: Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot. Increase heat to medium-high and brown the meat, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot for even cooking.
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Add broth: Pour in 8 cups of beef broth and the undrained diced tomatoes. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to infuse flavor.
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Season and simmer: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 30 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
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Make cheese sauce: In another saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden.
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Thicken sauce: Gradually add 3 cups of milk, whisking continuously until thickened. Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese, provolone, and mozzarella until smooth and creamy.
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Combine: Pour the cheese mixture into the soup base, stirring gently until fully combined and heated through—be careful not to let it boil.
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Serve: Ladle the creamy soup into bowls, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and additional cheese if desired. Serve with crusty rolls for dipping.
Optional: A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Philly Cheesesteak Soup preparations are perfect for those busy weeknights when a delicious meal is desired but time is short! You can chop the onions and bell peppers up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the beef can be sliced ahead of time and kept in a separate container or wrapped tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add in the beef, and follow the remaining steps from there. This way, you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal with minimal fuss at the end of a long day, without sacrificing that rich cheesesteak flavor!
Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Soup
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Slice Beef Thinly: Make sure to slice the sirloin steak against the grain to ensure tenderness in your final dish.
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Sautéing Veggies: Don’t rush this step; caramelizing onions and peppers adds depth of flavor that elevates your soup.
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Quality Broth Matters: Opt for a good-quality beef broth to enhance the overall taste of the Philly Cheesesteak Soup.
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Cheese Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the quantity of cheese in the sauce to suit your personal taste; it’s all about your preference!
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Flavorful Next-Day Soup: Soups often get better as they sit. Consider making your Philly Cheesesteak Soup a day in advance for improved flavor.
Philly Cheesesteak Soup Variations
Customize your soup experience for an even more delightful adventure!
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Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese and milk for cashew cream and coconut milk to maintain creaminess without dairy.
Flowing in rich flavors, this twist will keep the essence of the soup intact while appealing to dairy-free diets. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the soup for an extra layer of heat.
The warmth will elevate your experience and add a refreshing twist that makes each spoonful exciting. -
Additional Veggies: Toss in fresh mushrooms or spinach to boost the nutritional value and add hearty textures.
These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also offer vibrant color and a sense of wholesomeness to your dish. -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the cheese sauce and ensure everyone can enjoy this delight.
This simple swap allows those with gluten sensitivities to dive into a comforting bowl without worry. -
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with smoked paprika or cumin for a deeper, more complex flavor that will surprise your taste buds.
These spices add a smoky backdrop that’ll make your soup even more irresistible and memorable. -
Protein Swap: Substitute sirloin steak with grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter, equally delicious option.
This variation works wonders if you’re looking for something different while still enjoying the warmth of classic flavors. -
Topping Variations: Try topping your soup with crispy fried onions, crumbled bacon, or even a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Each topping brings a unique crunch or creaminess, making your bowl even more indulgent and satisfying. -
Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheese combinations like cheddar or gouda to shake things up.
The gooey, melted cheese will create a rich, luxurious finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
A warm bowl of hearty soup deserves thoughtful companions to create a complete dining experience.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect sidekick for dipping, this bread absorbs the creamy flavors, enhancing your soup experience.
- Garlic Breadsticks: With a deliciously buttery and garlicky flavor, they add a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft soup.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup, balancing every bite.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness provides a delightful contrast, and their crispy texture complements the soup’s creaminess.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness and a bit of zest, cutting through the richness of the cheese-filled broth.
- Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec beautifully matches the savory beef and enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.
- Dessert Bar: For dessert, opt for a chocolate brownie, bringing a sweet finish to a hearty meal—perfect for those after-dinner cravings!
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with citrus notes refreshes your palate and serves as a healthy contrast to the decadent soup.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil: A drizzle of herb-infused olive oil on top adds a fragrant pop, elevating both the soup and any bread served alongside.
Storage Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it to preserve freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents for easy identification!
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent separation of the cheese, keeping that creamy texture intact.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen Philadelphia Cheesesteak Soup, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight before reheating.
Philly Cheesesteak Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness for bell peppers and onions?
When selecting bell peppers and onions, look for ones that are firm and have smooth skin without blemishes. Bell peppers should be vibrant in color, free from dark spots. The onions should be heavy for their size and have dry, papery skin. For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients!
How long can I store Philly Cheesesteak Soup in the fridge?
You can store your Philly Cheesesteak Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing, as this helps maintain quality. Reheat gently on the stove before serving to bring back that comforting warmth.
Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space for expansion, and it will last for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the containers with the date. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove, but do so gently to avoid cheese separation.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a little more beef broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. Start with a small amount, stirring well to combine, and adjust until it’s just right. This way, you’ll keep that creamy texture without losing flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations for Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Yes, this soup contains dairy and gluten, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten allergies. For a dairy-free version, consider using plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. If you have a beef allergy, try substituting the sirloin with mushrooms or plant-based proteins for a hearty alternative.
What are some good toppings for Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Many toppings can elevate your Philly Cheesesteak Soup! Top with a dollop of sour cream, some sliced jalapeños for heat, or additional sautéed onions and peppers. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a bright finish, while crusty rolls are perfect for dipping! Feel free to get creative!
Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Soup That Warms Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and both bell peppers, sautéing until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot. Increase heat to medium-high and brown the meat.
- Pour in 8 cups of beef broth and the undrained diced tomatoes. Scrape up any browned bits.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 30 minutes.
- In another saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add 3 cups of milk, whisking continuously until thickened. Stir in cream cheese, provolone, and mozzarella until smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture into the soup base, stirring gently. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Ladle the creamy soup into bowls, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and additional cheese if desired. Serve with crusty rolls.