When it comes to iconic comfort foods, few can rival the beloved Philly cheesesteak with its juicy strips of steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions tucked inside a hoagie roll. But what happens when this classic sandwich meets the universally adored pizza? Enter the Philly cheesesteak pizza-a mouthwatering fusion that takes everything you love about the original and reimagines it on a golden, crispy crust. This savory twist combines the best of both worlds, delivering gooey cheese, tender beef, and flavorful toppings in every slice. Join us as we explore the origins, ingredients, and irresistible appeal of the Philly cheesesteak pizza-a appetizing innovation that’s winning the hearts of food lovers far beyond Philadelphia’s city limits.
Philly Cheesesteak Pizza offers an irresistible fusion of two classic favorites, blending the rich, savory flavors of a Philadelphia cheesesteak with the beloved, comforting appeal of a perfectly baked pizza. This unique dish emerged from the innovative spirit of food lovers eager to marry thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melty cheese with a crisp pizza crust, creating a savory twist that thrills the taste buds. Drawing inspiration from Philadelphia’s iconic street food, this recipe captures the soul of the cheesesteak while delivering a fun, shareable meal perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 hungry cheesesteak fans
Difficulty Level
Medium – Ideal for cooks familiar with sautéing and managing pizza dough
Key Ingredients That Capture the Authentic Flavor
- 12 oz ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional for extra texture)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise mixed with 2 tbsp ketchup (optional cheesesteak sauce)
Step by Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Pie
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to ensure a crispy crust.
- Prepare the steak: Place the thinly sliced ribeye in a bowl, season with salt and black pepper, and set aside. For tender slices, freeze the ribeye for 20 minutes beforehand-this makes slicing easier.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and green bell peppers, cooking until soft and golden brown, about 7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for the last minute. Remove veggies from pan and set aside.
- Cook the steak: Add remaining olive oil to the hot skillet. Spread the steak slices evenly and sear quickly until just browned but not overcooked, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine the sautéed veggies with the steak for a perfectly balanced filling. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Stretch or roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to your preheated pizza stone or baking sheet using parchment paper for easy handling.
- Assemble the pizza: Evenly layer shredded mozzarella as the base cheese, then spread the steak and vegetable mixture over the dough.
- Top with provolone cheese generously, which melts into gooey perfection and mimics the cheesesteak’s signature cheese pull.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3 minutes. Drizzle the optional mayo-ketchup sauce in a zigzag pattern to bring a creamy, tangy finish reminiscent of Philly’s beloved cheesesteak sauce.
Chef’s Notes for Philly Cheesesteak Pizza Success
- Steak substitute: For a budget-pleasant option, thinly sliced sirloin or even ribeye tips work well.
- Cheese variations: Swap out provolone for American cheese slices to get even closer to the classic cheesesteak flavor.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the steak and vegetables up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge. Assemble and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Dough tricks: If working with refrigerated dough, allow it to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before shaping to ease stretching.
- To add heat: Garnish with sliced pickled jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Cheesesteak Pizza Experience
Serve slices hot, allowing the cheese to gloss under the kitchen’s light with that perfect, melty stretch. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced scallions to introduce a vivid green contrast and a hint of freshness. Pair the pizza with a crisp, slightly bitter beer like a pilsner or a refreshing light lager to cut through the savory richness.
For a touch of nostalgia, serve with classic soft pretzels or a simple side of crispy fries, sprinkled with a dash of parmesan and garlic salt. Drizzle extra cheesesteak sauce on the side for dipping, and encourage guests to add their own zing with pickled banana peppers or pepperoncini.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
Excited to expand your pizza repertoire? Check out our ultimate pizza dough recipe for a homemade crust upgrade, or explore the history behind the classic Philly cheesesteak on visit Philly’s official guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Philly Cheesesteak Pizza – A Savory Twist on a Classic
Q1: What exactly is a Philly Cheesesteak Pizza?
A1: Imagine the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich-thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, sautéed onions, and peppers-transformed into a pizza masterpiece. A Philly Cheesesteak Pizza combines these beloved ingredients atop a crispy pizza crust, marrying the heartiness of the sandwich with the pizza’s cheesy, doughy embrace. It’s comfort food reborn in a slice!
Q2: How did the Philly Cheesesteak Pizza come about?
A2: Inspired by the culinary creativity that loves to blend favorites, the Philly Cheesesteak Pizza emerged as a delicious homage to Philadelphia’s famed sandwich. Chefs and home cooks alike sought to capture that savory essence while offering a fresh, shareable experience. It’s a playful way to celebrate Philly’s rich food culture with a twist.
Q3: What are the key ingredients that make this pizza distinct?
A3: The star players are thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak, mozzarella and provolone cheeses for gooey richness, sautéed onions, and often vibrant green bell peppers. some versions incorporate mushrooms or a drizzle of garlicky aioli to boost flavor. The crust matters too-a sturdy yet slightly chewy base perfectly supports the flavorful toppings.
Q4: Can I make a Philly Cheesesteak Pizza at home?
A4: Absolutely! Start with a good pizza dough, either homemade or store-bought. Sear thinly sliced steak seasoned with salt and pepper, then sauté onions and peppers until caramelized. Layer mozzarella and provolone cheese on the crust, spread the steak and veggies evenly, then bake until golden and bubbly. Pro tip: finish with a touch of hot sauce or fresh herbs for an extra kick.
Q5: How does Philly Cheesesteak Pizza differ from a traditional cheesesteak sandwich in terms of taste and texture?
A5: While the sandwich delivers a juicy, handheld bite with tender steak folded inside a soft hoagie roll, the pizza version offers a crispy, cheesy foundation that adds a different chewy crunch. The toppings meld more intimately with the dough and cheese, creating a layered texture were every bite blends savory steak with melty dairy and caramelized veggies in a way that’s both familiar and delightfully new.
Q6: Is Philly Cheesesteak Pizza popular outside of Philadelphia?
A6: Yes! While deeply rooted in Philly’s heritage, this pizza has found fans nationwide who crave inventive comfort foods. It frequently appears on menus of pizzerias and gastropubs eager to offer a unique twist on both pizza and sandwiches. Its blend of bold flavors appeals to food lovers everywhere looking for that perfect balance of nostalgia and novelty.
Q7: What drinks or sides pair well with Philly Cheesesteak Pizza?
A7: Classic pairings include crisp beers like pilsners or IPAs that cut through the richness, or a bold red wine with enough acidity to complement the meat and cheese. On the side, consider garlic knots, crispy fries, or a fresh, tangy slaw to provide contrast. A simple garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette also balances the indulgence.
Q8: Any tips for those new to this culinary creation?
A8: Start with quality steak and fresh veggies; the flavor depends heavily on good ingredients. Don’t overload the pizza-less is more when it comes to toppings, ensuring the crust stays perfectly crisp. Experiment with cheeses to find your ideal meltiness and flavor. Most importantly, enjoy the fusion of two classics coming together in a deliciously unexpected way!
Whether you’re a pizza fanatic or a Philly cheesesteak devotee, the Philly Cheesesteak Pizza offers a savory, satisfying adventure you won’t want to miss. Ready to take a bite?
In Conclusion
Whether you’re a devoted cheesesteak enthusiast or a pizza aficionado looking to explore new flavor frontiers, the Philly Cheesesteak Pizza offers a delicious crossroads where tradition meets innovation. By layering tender strips of steak, melted provolone, sautéed peppers, and onions atop a crispy pizza crust, this savory fusion transforms two beloved classics into one unforgettable experience. It’s more than just a meal-it’s a festivity of Philly’s rich culinary spirit with a cheesy, doughy twist. So next time you crave something both comforting and adventurous, give this inventive dish a try and savor the best of both worlds in every bite.
