Few culinary creations evoke the unmistakable spirit of Philadelphia quite like the iconic cheesesteak-a hearty sandwich bursting with tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions. Now, imagine that beloved classic reimagined on a golden, crispy pizza crust, blending the best of two comfort food worlds into one irresistible dish: the cheesesteak pizza. This savory twist takes the rich flavors and satisfying textures of the Philly staple and transforms them into a shareable, sliceable delight. in this article, we’ll explore the origins of the cheesesteak pizza, its key ingredients, and why it’s quickly becoming a favorite for food lovers craving both familiarity and innovation in every bite.
Cheesesteak Pizza offers a delectable fusion of two beloved Philadelphia staples, marrying the iconic flavors of the Philly cheesesteak with the irresistible comfort of pizza. This inspired dish honors the city’s culinary heritage while delivering a fresh twist that’s perfect for any occasion-whether it’s game day, a casual gathering, or a comforting weeknight dinner. The journey from sizzling steak and melted cheese on a hoagie roll to a crisp, cheesy pizza crust creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will captivate your palate.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total: 40 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 generous portions
Difficulty Level
Medium – perfect for those comfortable working with homemade dough and layering fresh ingredients
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup creamy provolone cheese sauce (see note below)
- ½ cup tomato sauce (optional, for balance)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- For the Toppings:
- 12 oz thinly sliced ribeye steak
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and allow it to bubble and activate for about 5-7 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Form into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Steak & Veggies: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and green peppers, sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside. Add remaining olive oil, then cook thinly sliced ribeye slices 2 minutes per side until just browned. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from pan.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small saucepan, gently warm the provolone cheese sauce and tomato sauce (if using), whisk in garlic and smoked paprika, season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
- Assemble Pizza: Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Roll dough out onto a lightly oiled pizza pan or stone into a 12-inch circle. Spread an even layer of the cheese sauce mixture over the dough. Scatter mozzarella cheese generously.
- Add Toppings: Evenly distribute the sautéed onions, peppers, mushrooms (if using), and ribeye slices over the cheese. Finish with a light sprinkle of additional mozzarella for gooey perfection.
- Bake: Place pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden, cheese is melted and bubbly, and edges are crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven, allow pizza to cool for 3 minutes. Slice and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Tips for success
- dough Variations: For a lighter crust, substitute 1 cup of all-purpose flour with bread flour to increase chew and rise.
- Cheese Sauce shortcut: Use store-bought provolone cream sauce or make your own by melting provolone with a touch of cream and nutmeg.
- Steak Substitute: If ribeye is unavailable, sirloin or flank steak work well-thin slicing is key for tenderness.
- Make-Ahead Advice: Dough can be made the day before: refrigerate in an airtight container and allow to come to room temperature before rolling out.
- Avoid sogginess: Pre-cook veggies thoroughly and pat steak dry before adding to pizza to keep crust crisp.
- For a smoky finish: Drizzle a little smoked olive oil or add a pinch of smoked sea salt just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Present your cheesesteak pizza on a rustic wooden board to highlight its hearty appeal. Pair it with a crisp arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add herbaceous brightness. This pizza also shines alongside a robust craft beer or a glass of cold, dry white wine to complement the cheesesteak’s bold flavors.
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
Learn more about dough-making techniques by visiting King Arthur Baking’s Bread Recipes and deepen your pizza passion today. Also, explore our related post on How to Make the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak sandwich for an authentic Philadelphia experience.
Q&A
cheesesteak Pizza: A Savory twist on a Philly Classic - Q&A
Q1: What exactly is a cheesesteak pizza?
A1: Imagine the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak-thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, sautéed onions-all piled high, but now on a pizza crust rather of a hoagie roll. Cheesesteak pizza combines all those beloved flavors in a delightful, crispy, cheesy pie that’s both familiar and refreshingly new.
Q2: How did the idea of cheesesteak pizza come about?
A2: The cheesesteak is a Philly staple, and pizza is a universal favorite. The fusion likely emerged from creative chefs and home cooks looking to celebrate Philly’s signature sandwich in new ways. By turning the classic cheesesteak into a pizza topping, it’s possible to enjoy those savory flavors in a shareable, pizza-party style.
Q3: What are the key ingredients that make a cheesesteak pizza authentic?
A3: The essentials include thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak, melted provolone or American cheese, sautéed onions, and frequently enough green peppers or mushrooms. The pizza dough should be sturdy enough to hold these hearty toppings, and sometimes a garlicky or cheese sauce base replaces traditional tomato sauce to stay true to cheesesteak flavors.
Q4: How does cheesesteak pizza differ from a traditional cheesesteak sandwich?
A4: While a traditional cheesesteak is wrapped in a soft hoagie roll, cheesesteak pizza spreads those ingredients across a flatbread crust, creating a crispy texture contrast. The pizza also allows for creative toppings you might not find in a classic sandwich, such as mozzarella blends, jalapeños, or even drizzled sauces, making each slice a flavor-packed adventure.
Q5: Can cheesesteak pizza be made vegetarian?
A5: Absolutely! Swap out the beef for hearty mushrooms, marinated tofu, or plant-based meat substitutes. Keep the caramelized onions and roasted peppers, and load up on melty cheeses or vegan cheese alternatives. This way, you capture the savory spirit of the cheesesteak while catering to plant-based eaters.
Q6: What’s the best way to enjoy a cheesesteak pizza at home?
A6: Start with a homemade or good-quality store-bought dough for that perfect crust. Sear your steak strips quickly for juiciness, sauté your veggies until tender, and layer them generously atop a cheese or creamy sauce base. Bake until golden and bubbly, then slice and serve hot. Pair with a cold soda or craft beer for the full Philly experience.
Q7: Why is cheesesteak pizza gaining popularity?
A7: It’s a lovely marriage of comfort foods: the familiar, hearty taste of cheesesteak meets the universally loved format of pizza. It appeals to food lovers who crave bold, savory flavors served in shareable, casual form. Plus, it’s a fun way to put a local Philly twist on a party favorite that can be customized endlessly.
Q8: Are there any famous spots known for cheesesteak pizza?
A8: While cheesesteak pizza can be found in various pizzerias around Philadelphia and beyond, some local joints have built a reputation for creative takes on the dish. Many small, family-owned pizzerias pride themselves on honoring Philly heritage by offering this unique specialty that pizza and cheesesteak fans rave about.
Q9: What drinks pair well with cheesesteak pizza?
A9: Bold and refreshing options work best! think classic cola, icy craft lagers, or even a crisp IPA to cut through the richness. For a non-alcoholic choice, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea complements the savory, cheesy flavors perfectly.
Q10: Can cheesesteak pizza be considered a new Philly classic?
A10: It just might be! By blending tradition with innovation, cheesesteak pizza honors Philly’s culinary heart while inviting pizza lovers everywhere to join the party. As more people discover its irresistible charm, it’s carving out its own appetizing legacy-one slice at a time.
To Conclude
Whether you’re a die-hard Philly cheesesteak fan or a pizza lover looking to spice up your slice, the cheesesteak pizza stands as a delicious bridge between two iconic comfort foods. This savory hybrid captures the bold, meaty flavors and melty cheese of the classic sandwich while embracing the crispy, doughy satisfaction of pizza. As food trends continue to evolve, it’s creations like the cheesesteak pizza that remind us how culinary innovation can pay homage to tradition while offering something new to savor. So next time you crave a taste of Philadelphia with a twist, this inventive pie is ready to deliver a slice of cheesy, tender joy-one bite at a time.
