Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy, rich, and packed with bold flavors, let me introduce you to Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. This indulgent soup brings together all the best parts of a classic Philly cheesesteak but with a creamy twist that warms you from the inside out. Creamy cheese, tender steak, vibrant peppers, and a savory broth come together in a bowl of pure happiness that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a little extra comfort on your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple yet essential ingredients that provide a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and color. Each item plays a crucial role, from the caramelized bell peppers adding sweetness to the creamy cheese sauce giving that irresistible richness.

• Olive oil: For sautéing vegetables to a perfect softness and slight caramelization.
• Large onion, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the base of the soup.
• Green and red bell peppers, chopped: Offer vibrant color and a fresh, crisp flavor contrast.
• Sirloin steak, thinly sliced: The star protein—tender and full of meaty flavor.
• Beef broth: Creates a rich, savory foundation to build the soup’s flavor.
• Canned diced tomatoes: Bring juiciness and a bit of tang that cuts through the richness.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami punch that elevates the savory profile.
• Dried thyme and red pepper flakes: Provide mild herbal notes and optional heat.
• Butter and all-purpose flour: Make a roux that thickens the soup into creamy perfection.
• Milk: Balances the creaminess of the cheese sauce without overpowering.
• Cream cheese: Gives silky smoothness and a tangy richness to the soup.
• Shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses: Melt into a gooey, luscious sauce with fantastic stretch and flavor.
• Garlic and onion powders: Boost the savory elements without overpowering freshness.
• Crusty rolls: Essential for dipping and soaking up every last cheesy drop.
• Chopped fresh parsley: A lively, fresh garnish that adds color and brightness.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion along with green and red bell peppers. Cook everything until it softens and just begins to caramelize, about 8 to 10 minutes. This process transforms the raw, sharp flavors into a sweet, tender base that forms the heart of your soup.

Step 2: Brown the Steak

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan here; browning the steak properly locks in flavor and texture, avoiding that steamed, rubbery bite. You might need to brown the steak in batches, stirring frequently until each slice gets a nice, appetizing color.

Step 3: Combine the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the beef broth and canned diced tomatoes, including the juices, into the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Season with salt and pepper, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

While the soup simmers, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux, cooking it for a couple of minutes to get rid of any raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring the sauce becomes thick and velvety. Stir in cream cheese until melted, followed by shredded provolone and mozzarella, adding the cheeses in handfuls to achieve ultimate creaminess.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Add garlic powder, onion powder, and season again with salt and pepper to your liking. Slowly pour the luscious cheese sauce into the main pot with the soup base, stirring constantly to unify the textures. Warm the soup through gently without boiling to keep the cheese sauce from breaking. Adjust thickness by adding broth or simmering uncovered as needed.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Garnishes

Top your bowls with extra shredded provolone or mozzarella and a sprinkling of fresh parsley for color and a hint of freshness. These little touches lift the dish and add a beautiful presentation that’s as inviting as the flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve the soup with crusty rolls or garlic bread that perfectly soak up the creamy broth. A crisp green salad or simple roasted veggies can also add complementary textures to balance the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out sourdough loaves. You could also turn it into a hearty dip for a game day snack by thickening it slightly. Either way, Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe adapts beautifully for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or quick lunches.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and keep for up to 3 months. When thawing, do so overnight in the fridge for best results to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring frequently. Be careful not to boil after adding the cheese sauce, or it might separate. Add a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the soup if it thickens too much in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While sirloin is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use ribeye or even thinly sliced flank steak. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

You can switch out the beef broth for vegetable broth and omit the steak, adding hearty mushrooms or plant-based meat substitutes instead. The cheese sauce still brings incredible creaminess to keep it comforting.

How spicy is this soup?

The red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your taste. Without them, the soup is mild and packed with savory and cheesy flavor, but adding a pinch gives it a nice background warmth.

Can I prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the cheese sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Warm it gently before adding to the soup. Just whisk it well to bring it back to a smooth consistency if it thickens.

What’s the best way to slice the steak?

Freeze the steak for about 30 minutes beforehand to firm it up, then slice as thinly as you can against the grain. This step ensures your beef stays tender and easy to enjoy in every spoonful.

Final Thoughts

Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is a bowl full of goodness that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a new, cozy form that feels like a warm hug. I hope you have as much fun making and sharing this delicious soup as I do eating it!

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