Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Soup: the ultimate comfort food mashup you didn’t know you needed! Imagine all the savory, cheesy goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak, but in a warm, slurpable soup form. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a hearty, flavorful experience that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Philadelphia, one spoonful at a time.

While the exact origins of the original Philly cheesesteak are well-documented (thanks, Pat Olivieri!), this soup version is a more modern interpretation, born from a desire to enjoy those iconic flavors in a new and exciting way. It captures the essence of the original – the tender, thinly sliced steak, the gooey melted cheese, and those perfectly caramelized onions and peppers – and transforms it into a comforting bowl perfect for a chilly evening.

People adore this Philly Cheesesteak Soup because it delivers all the satisfying flavors of the sandwich without the need for a roll. It’s incredibly easy to make, customizable to your liking (add mushrooms, different cheeses, or even a splash of hot sauce!), and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The rich, beefy broth, combined with the creamy cheese and tender vegetables, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic favorite in a lighter, more convenient format. Get ready to experience the magic of a Philly cheesesteak in a whole new way!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 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 (I like to partially freeze it for easier slicing!)
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Cheesy Goodness:
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup milk (I prefer whole milk for richness)
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional Toppings:
• Crusty bread, for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Extra shredded provolone or mozzarella
• Pickled jalapenos (if you like it spicy!)

Preparing the Steak and Vegetables:

1. Get your pan hot! Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You want the pan nice and hot so the steak gets a good sear.
2. Sear the steak: Add the thinly sliced steak to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned. Don’t overcrowd the pot; you may need to do this in batches to ensure proper browning. Overcrowding will steam the steak instead of searing it. Remove the steak from the pot and set aside. We’ll add it back in later.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. You want them to be tender and slightly translucent.

Building the Soup:

1. Add the liquids and seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, but it’s harder to take it away!
2. Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor will be! I sometimes let it simmer for an hour or more.
3. Return the steak: Add the browned steak back to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes to heat the steak through.

Creating the Cheesy Magic:

1. Temper the cream cheese: In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and milk until smooth. This step is crucial to prevent the cream cheese from clumping in the soup. Make sure the cream cheese is truly softened; leaving it out at room temperature for an hour or so usually does the trick.
2. Incorporate the cheese: Gradually whisk the cream cheese mixture into the soup, stirring until completely combined and smooth. Be patient and stir constantly to avoid any lumps.
3. Melt the shredded cheese: Stir in the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese until melted and the soup is creamy and cheesy. Again, stir constantly to ensure the cheese melts evenly and doesn’t clump.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a little more Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor.
2. Serve it up! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping, chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and extra shredded cheese for even more cheesiness. Pickled jalapenos are a great addition if you like a little heat.
3. Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The soup may thicken as it sits, so you might need to add a little extra broth or milk when reheating to reach your desired consistency.

Tips and Variations:

• Steak Selection: While sirloin is a classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks, you can also use ribeye or even flank steak. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Cheese Options: Provolone and mozzarella are traditional choices, but you can experiment with other cheeses like white American, cheddar, or even a little bit of pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as mushrooms, onions, or even a little bit of garlic. Sauté them along with the onions and bell peppers.
• Spicy Version: If you like your soup spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicy sausage instead of steak for a different flavor profile.
• Slow Cooker Option: This soup can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. Brown the steak and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream cheese mixture and shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Instant Pot Version: For a quick and easy version, use an Instant Pot. Brown the steak using the sauté function, then add the vegetables and sauté for a few minutes. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then a quick release. Stir in the cream cheese mixture and shredded cheese until melted.
• Make it Lighter: To reduce the fat content, use skim milk instead of whole milk and reduced-fat cream cheese. You can also use a leaner cut of steak.
• Freezing Instructions: While this soup is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the soup may change slightly after freezing and thawing.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Philly Cheesesteak Soup!

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Conclusion:

This Philly Cheesesteak Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a flavor explosion that captures the essence of the iconic sandwich in a warm, comforting bowl. Seriously, you absolutely have to try this! The combination of tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and that creamy, cheesy broth is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors you love without the bread.

But why is this soup a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy schedules. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

For a truly authentic experience, top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of provolone cheese and a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a swirl of hot sauce for a little kick.

Want to take it to the next level? Consider these variations:

* Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the broth for a fiery twist.
* Mushroom Philly Cheesesteak Soup: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and peppers for an earthy flavor.
* Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Soup: Omit the flour and use a thickening agent like xanthan gum or cream cheese to maintain the creamy texture while keeping the carb count low.
* Creamy Tomato Philly Cheesesteak Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes (drained) to the soup for a tangy and vibrant flavor.
* Deluxe Philly Cheesesteak Soup: Top with crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! The beauty of soup is that it’s incredibly forgiving, so feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste.

I’m confident that this Philly Cheesesteak Soup will become a new family favorite. It’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying – everything you could want in a comforting bowl of soup. I poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I truly believe you’ll love it as much as I do.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Once you’ve tried it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? I’m eager to hear your feedback and see your creations. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help. Enjoy your delicious bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Soup!