Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. This creamy, flavorful soup captures the essence of the classic sandwich while offering a warm bowl that feels like a hug. With tender sirloin, fresh vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce, this dish is sure to delight family and friends alike. Itβs versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious soup ready to enjoy.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and cheeses creates an irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more.
- Comforting Texture: The creamy cheese sauce blends beautifully with the hearty beef and veggies, making each bite comforting.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 6-8 servings, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items youβll need for this recipe to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly, preventing burning on the bottom.
- Medium saucepan: Perfect for making sauces like the creamy cheese blend without overcrowding your cooking space.
- Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when making a roux or cheese sauce.

Ingredients
Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Soup with tender steak, sautΓ©ed vegetables, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Serve with crusty rolls.
For the Soup Base
- 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)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Cheese Sauce
- 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
For Serving
- Crusty rolls, for dipping
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Step 1: SautΓ© the Vegetables
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 until softened and slightly caramelizedβabout 8-10 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Steak
Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot. Increase heat to medium-high. Cook while stirring frequently until browned. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to do this in batches.
Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the potβs bottom.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour.
Step 5: Prepare Cheese Sauce
While simmering soup, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour; cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly until it forms a roux.
Step 6: Add Milk Gradually
Gradually whisk in milkβabout 1/2 cup at a timeβensuring each addition fully incorporates before adding more. Continue whisking until smooth and thickened.
Step 7: Melt Cream Cheese
Reduce heat to low; add softened cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Then add provolone and mozzarella cheeses gradually until melted.
Step 8: Combine Soups
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper as needed. Once ready, slowly pour into pot with soup base while stirring constantly.
Step 9: Heat Through
Heat soup through gently by stirring occasionallyβavoid boiling after adding cheese sauce as it may separate.
Step 10: Adjust Consistency
If too thick, add more beef broth; if too thin simmer uncovered briefly until thickened slightly.
Step 11: Serve
Ladle Philly Cheesesteak Soup into bowls. Top with extra shredded cheeses and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with crusty rolls for dipping.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Soup!
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Serving Philly Cheesesteak Soup is about enhancing the comforting experience with thoughtful accompaniments. A warm bowl of this hearty soup can be complemented in several delicious ways to elevate your meal.
With Crusty Rolls
- Crusty Bread: Slice a fresh baguette or Italian bread for dipping into the creamy goodness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: Toast slices of garlic bread for a flavorful twist that pairs beautifully with the cheese sauce.
With Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing and croutons complements the richness of the soup.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with assorted greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.
With Cheese Toppings
- Extra Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle additional provolone or mozzarella cheese on top for an extra cheesy experience.
- Parmesan Crisps: Serve crispy Parmesan chips on the side for a savory crunch that enhances each bite.
How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Perfecting your Philly Cheesesteak Soup involves mastering techniques and flavors. Follow these tips to take your dish to the next level.
- Bold Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasonings during cooking to ensure optimal flavor balance.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Select fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth for a richer taste and texture in your soup.
- Donβt Rush the Cheese Sauce: Allow time for cheeses to melt fully into a smooth sauce; this is key for achieving creaminess.
- Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low after adding cheese to prevent it from separating, ensuring a velvety consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Complementing your Philly Cheesesteak Soup with perfect side dishes can enhance its comforting nature. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a delightful pairing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition alongside the soup.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a filling complement to your meal.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
- Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips provide an irresistible texture contrast; opt for homemade if possible.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing brings brightness and healthfulness to your table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Philly Cheesesteak Soup, itβs easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
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Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the steak properly can lead to a less flavorful soup. Make sure to cook the meat in batches if necessary to achieve that delicious caramelization.
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Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy and lose their vibrant color. Aim for a tender yet slightly crisp texture by cooking them just until softened.
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Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can result in a bland soup. Be generous with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process, and taste as you go to find the perfect balance.
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Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Dumping all the cheese in at once can cause it to clump or become gritty. Gradually add cheese while stirring constantly for a smooth, creamy consistency.
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Ignoring Consistency Adjustments: If your soup is too thick, it may not be enjoyable. Always have extra beef broth on hand to adjust the thickness as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Soup in airtight containers.
- It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
- Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers.
- The soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
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Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Philly Cheesesteak Soup that may help you enjoy this dish even more.
What makes Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe special?
This recipe combines tender steak, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce, creating a rich and hearty dish perfect for any comfort food craving.
Can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Absolutely! You can add other veggies like mushrooms or replace cheeses based on your preference. Feel free to experiment with spices and herbs as well!
How long does it take to make Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
The total time is around 80 minutes, with about 20 minutes of prep and an hour of cooking time.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! Substitute beef with plant-based proteins like mushrooms or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version of this comforting dish.
Final Thoughts
Philly Cheesesteak Soup is truly a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and satisfaction. This comforting recipe is versatile enough for various tastesβwhether you prefer different meats or additional veggies. Donβt hesitate; give this ultimate comfort food recipe a try today!
Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Discover the warmth and comfort of Philly Cheesesteak Soup, the ultimate dish to warm your soul on chilly evenings. This creamy and hearty soup embodies the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, combining tender sirloin steak with fresh vegetables and a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this dish offers a delightful blend of tastes and textures in every spoonful. With just 20 minutes of preparation and an easy cooking process, you can create a comforting meal that satisfies cravings and brings smiles around the table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 to 8 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
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
- 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)
- 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
- Crusty rolls, for dipping
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. SautΓ© chopped onion and bell peppers until softened.
- Add thinly sliced sirloin steak, browning it over medium-high heat.
- Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes; stir to combine.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer covered for 30 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to make a roux, then gradually add milk until thickened.
- Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheeses until melted.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the soup base; adjust thickness with more broth if necessary.
- Serve hot with crusty rolls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
