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Philly cheesesteak
Freeze the steak for about 45 minutes, until firm but not solid. Slice it across the grain as thinly as you can, 2 mm or less.
Tip: A butcher will shave it on a slicer if you ask, which is what the stands use.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Philly cheesesteak take?
1 hr 20 min all in — 15 min prep, 20 min cook, 45 min rest. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 4 sandwiches. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Easy.
How spicy is it?
No chilli.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Wheat, Milk. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Nut-free.
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What does it cost to cook?
A bit special — about $16–28 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Frying pan, Chef's knife, Cutting board.
How much salt do I put in?
The recipe lists Salt at 1 tsp.
What can I use instead?
Provolone → White American cheese or Cheez Whiz. All three are accepted in Philadelphia. American melts the smoothest. Ribeye → Top sirloin. Leaner and cheaper. Slice it even thinner and take it off the heat sooner.
What should I watch for?
The pan needs to be very hot and will smoke. Open a window.
Any tips from this recipe?
Do not toast the roll. It should be soft and soak up the juices; warm it in the oven for a minute if it is a day old. Fried green peppers and mushrooms are common additions at shops away from the old South Philly stands. Season the beef in the pan, not before slicing, or the salt draws out water and it steams.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.