Philly Cheesesteak Stew

Philly Cheesesteak Stew is a comforting dish that brings all the beloved flavors of a classic cheesesteak into a hearty stew. Perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings, this stew is filled with tender beef, vibrant veggies, and topped with gooey provolone cheese. It’s an easy-to-make meal that will satisfy everyone at the table, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: This stew is packed with savory ingredients that provide a depth of flavor reminiscent of your favorite cheesesteak.
• Comforting Warmth: Ideal for chilly days, this stew warms you from the inside out with its hearty ingredients.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward instructions, this recipe allows even novice cooks to create a delicious meal with minimal effort.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as-is or serve it in bread bowls for an extra special touch.
• Family-Friendly Meal: The combination of beef and cheese makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make Philly Cheesesteak Stew, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large bowl
• Skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large bowl: Perfect for mixing ingredients without spilling, ensuring even seasoning and coating.
• Skillet or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution, crucial for browning meat and simmering the stew perfectly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring, scraping up fond from the bottom of the pan without damaging cookware.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 1 1/2 lb top sirloin or ribeye (cut in thin slices)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 tbsp flour (divided)

For the Vegetables

• 2 onions (quartered and cut into thin slices)
• 1/2-1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Broth and Peppers

• 4 cups beef broth (2 if you want a really thick stew)
• 1-2 sweet bell pepper (thinly sliced)

For the Topping

• 12 slices provolone cheese

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

In a large bowl, toss the steak strips with salt and pepper. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and toss again until all slices are well coated.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

Sear the steak in two batches over medium-high heat. Brown both sides for about 1-2 minutes per side. The centers should remain pink. Once browned, set aside.

Step 3: Cook Vegetables

In the same skillet, add onions and mushrooms. Sauté for a few minutes until onions are translucent. Then add garlic powder, remaining salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and last 2 tablespoons of flour. Stir to coat onions evenly.

Step 4: Add Broth

Pour in beef broth gradually—about 1/2 cup at a time—stirring between additions to thicken without lumps. Once fully incorporated, allow it to thicken while bringing to a bubble. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Peppers

Add sliced bell peppers during the last 10 minutes of simmering. Return seared beef to the pot after 30 minutes, letting it heat through for about 5 more minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle warm stew into bowls and top each serving with provolone cheese. Enjoy as is or consider serving in bread bowls for added flavor!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Stew

Serving Philly Cheesesteak Stew is all about enhancing its rich, hearty flavors. Whether you prefer it traditional or with a twist, there are various ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

Serve with Provolone Cheese

• Top each bowl with slices of provolone cheese for that authentic cheesesteak flavor. Allow it to melt slightly before serving for extra creaminess.

Use Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the stew in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only adds to the presentation but also gives you a delicious way to soak up every last drop of the stew.

Accompany with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your stew with fresh parsley or chives. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile, making each bite more vibrant.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Offer some crusty baguette or artisan rolls on the side. The crunchy texture complements the stew perfectly and is great for dipping.

How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Stew

To make your Philly Cheesesteak Stew even better, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your cooking game and ensure you create a delicious, hearty meal every time.

• Choose the Right Cut: Use top sirloin or ribeye for tender meat that cooks quickly while remaining juicy.
• Sear Properly: Make sure to sear the steak in batches. This ensures even browning and prevents steaming, keeping your meat flavorful.
• Thicken Gradually: Add beef broth slowly while stirring to achieve the desired consistency without lumps.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook! Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings according to your preference.
• Add Vegetables Last: Incorporate bell peppers towards the end of cooking for a crisp texture and bright flavor contrast.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Stew

Complementing your Philly Cheesesteak Stew with the right sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that pair wonderfully with this hearty dish.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds flavor and texture. Simply spread garlic butter on slices and toast until golden.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the stew.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers tossed in olive oil make for a colorful and healthy side.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a comforting addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover broth from the stew.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a nice crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the stew.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread can add a delightful contrast to savory flavors in your stew while being easy to prepare alongside it.
7. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element that complements both taste and color on your plate.
8. French Fries: Crispy fries provide an informal yet satisfying pairing with your stew, perfect for those who love traditional comfort food combinations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Philly Cheesesteak Stew, avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your meat and vegetables properly. A little salt and pepper at the right stage enhances the overall taste.
• Overcooking the meat: Ensure you only sear the meat for 1-2 minutes. Cooking too long will result in tough steak instead of tender bites.
• Not using enough broth: If you want a thicker stew, reduce the amount of broth gradually, but don’t skimp on flavor. Always taste as you go!
• Adding all ingredients at once: Introduce ingredients like peppers towards the end of cooking. This preserves their texture and flavor.
• Ignoring consistency: If your stew looks too thick, simply add more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Philly Cheesesteak Stew

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for top flavor.

Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Simmer in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Philly Cheesesteak Stew?

Philly Cheesesteak Stew is a hearty dish that captures the flavors of a traditional cheese steak without the bun. It combines tender beef, savory vegetables, and melted cheese in a comforting stew format.

How can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Stew?

Feel free to add more vegetables such as zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition. You can also try different types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for varied flavors.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly!

What should I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Stew is not just delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or looking for comfort food, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies and cheeses!