As the wind howls outside and snow blankets the ground, there’s nothing quite like retreating to the kitchen to whip up a bowl of love. This Hearty Philly Cheese Steak Soup takes all the warm, savory goodness of a classic cheesesteak and transforms it into a soul-soothing dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Filled with tender beef, gooey cheese, and fresh vegetables, this comforting creation is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its rich flavors but also in its versatility—whether you’re serving a crowd or just need a cozy dinner for two, it checks every box. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for gluten-free options or your favorite cuts of beef! Are you ready to dive into this deliciously creamy adventure?

Why Try Philly Cheese Steak Soup?

Comforting Warmth: This Philly Cheese Steak Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly nights when you need something hearty.

Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, it’s a breeze to whip up this creamy delight for even the busiest of kitchens.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The blend of beef, provolone, and fresh veggies creates a savory experience that will impress family and friends alike.

Versatile Options: Whether you desire gluten-free alternatives or variations with different cuts of beef, this recipe adapts to fit your needs seamlessly.

Prep Ahead: It stores well, making it convenient for meal prep—just heat and serve! A bowl of this soup alongside some crusty bread is all you need for a fulfilling dinner.

Philly Cheese Steak Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Beef Sirloin – This main protein adds rich flavor and hearty texture; consider ribeye or flank steak for variation.
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing beef and vegetables; no direct substitutes necessary unless using a different cooking oil.
• Onion – Enhances the soup’s flavor with sweetness when sautéed; shallots can be swapped for a milder taste.
• Green Bell Pepper – Adds a delightful crunch and sweetness; feel free to use red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter profile.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; garlic powder is a quick substitute in a pinch.

For the Broth and Creaminess
• Beef Broth – Forms the flavorful soup base; for a lighter option, use chicken or vegetable broth, making sure it’s gluten-free if necessary.
• Heavy Cream – This ingredient adds a luscious richness; you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.

For the Cheesy Finish
• Provolone Cheese – Gives the soup its signature cheesy taste; can be substituted with mozzarella or mild cheddar for a different flavor.

Seasoning Essentials
• Salt and Pepper – Basic but crucial seasonings to enhance flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.

Create a comforting bowl of Philly Cheese Steak Soup that’ll warm your heart and satisfy your hunger!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Beef
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add your sliced beef sirloin in batches, browning for about 4-5 minutes until it’s well-browned and no longer pink. Use a slotted spoon to remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate, keeping the flavorful drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
With the same pot still over medium heat, add 1 chopped onion and 1 diced green bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes until they are tender and translucent, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add 3 minced garlic cloves for the last minute of cooking, until fragrant, to enhance the flavor of your Philly Cheese Steak Soup.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the browned beef to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients nicely. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while the soup thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
After simmering, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of shredded provolone cheese. Keep the heat on low to gently melt the cheese, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully incorporated and the soup is creamy, which should take about 5 minutes. The Philly Cheese Steak Soup should look rich and inviting.

Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste your soup and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking. Once everything is well-seasoned, serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, ensuring you’re ready to enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal!

What to Serve with Hearty Philly Cheese Steak Soup

There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of soup to nurture the soul; pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal experience.

Crusty Bread: This is a must-have for dipping! Freshly baked crusty bread perfectly soaks up the savory broth, enhancing each spoonful’s rich flavor.
Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the creaminess of the soup, offering a delightful contrast that rounds out the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized vegetables add another layer of flavor and texture, completing the cozy vibe with their earthy sweetness.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Bringing the cheesy goodness in a new form, this addition complements the soup’s flavors and makes for a delightful pairing.
Crispy Potato Chips: For a textural twist, serve some homemade chips on the side. Their crunchiness offers a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
Craft Beer or Red Wine: A pint of craft beer or a glass of robust red wine can enhance the hearty flavors of the soup, creating a warm ambiance for your meal.
Chocolate Brownies: For dessert lovers, a rich chocolate brownie is the perfect sweet finish to your hearty meal, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Each of these pairings will beautifully complement your Philly Cheese Steak Soup, making your dining experience truly memorable!

Philly Cheese Steak Soup Variations

Feel free to personalize your Philly Cheese Steak Soup with these enticing adaptations that will make your taste buds dance with joy!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a creamy texture without the dairy. This swap adds a hint of coconut and richness that’s simply delicious.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup while simmering. This elevates the flavor profile and adds a delightful warmth that’ll keep you on your toes.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in additional veggies like mushrooms, carrots, or spinach for an even healthier soup. They add nutrition and create beautiful layers of flavor, making your dish more vibrant.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your beef broth is certified gluten-free and pair it with gluten-free bread for dipping. Comfort food doesn’t have to compromise on dietary needs, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious meal.
Different Cuts of Beef: Experiment with cuts like brisket or top round for varied flavors and textures. Each cut lends its unique profile to the soup, encouraging a delightful culinary adventure.
Cheesy Variations: Swap out provolone cheese for gouda or pepper jack for a different cheese experience. The new cheese will melt wonderfully and bring its unique flavor nuances to your bowl.
Slow Cooker Adaptation: Make this soup in a slow cooker by browning your beef and sautéing veggies first, then adding all ingredients to the slow cooker for a hands-off meal. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.

For a delightful pairing, you might want to serve your soup with some addictive Korean BBQ Steak or try out the cheesy goodness of Baked Cottage Cheese on the side. Explore these variations and find your perfect blend of flavors!

How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Fridge: Store your Philly Cheese Steak Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove over low heat for the best texture.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended due to the cream possibly separating upon thawing, if you must, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results when reheating, do so on the stove, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or cream to restore the desired consistency if it thickens.

Expert Tips for Philly Cheese Steak Soup

• Quality Meat Matters: Choose higher-grade beef for optimal flavor. Sirloin or ribeye gives the best tenderness, enhancing your Philly Cheese Steak Soup.

• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on your beef while browning. Overcooked meat can become tough, diminishing the soup’s overall essence.

• Creamy Consistency: If your soup is too thin, create a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water) and stir in gradually while simmering.

• Fresh Veggies: Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Frozen options can lead to a watery soup, diluting the richness.

• Serve Warm: For the ultimate comfort experience, serve your soup immediately after cooking. The melted cheese and hot broth make each bowl incredibly inviting.

Make Ahead Options

These Philly Cheese Steak Soup is ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onion and bell pepper) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can brown the beef and prepare the broth mixture (without the cream and cheese) up to 24 hours in advance, just store it separately. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful soup, simply heat the broth on the stove, stir in the cream and cheese, and simmer until everything is hot and melty. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of Philly Cheese Steak Soup ready in a flash, just as delicious as when freshly made!

Philly Cheese Steak Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best to use for Philly Cheese Steak Soup?
I recommend using beef sirloin for its rich flavor and tenderness. Other good options include ribeye or flank steak, which provide a slightly different texture and taste. Ensure the beef is well-cut and fresh for the best outcome!

How should I store leftovers of Philly Cheese Steak Soup?
Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. This helps maintain its creamy texture and flavors.

Can I freeze Philly Cheese Steak Soup?
Freezing is generally not recommended due to the heavy cream, which may separate when thawed. However, if you need to freeze it, use an airtight container and consume it within 2 months. When reheating, expect a slightly altered texture, and consider adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

My soup is too thin; how can I thicken it?
Absolutely! If you find your soup is too thin, you can thicken it easily by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup while simmering, allowing it to thicken gradually. Keep stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, but you need to ensure that your beef broth is certified gluten-free. Sometimes broth can contain gluten, especially store-bought brands, so check the label. Pair the soup with gluten-free bread to keep the entire meal gluten-free and delightful!

Can I use different vegetables in Philly Cheese Steak Soup?
Very! While the classic recipe calls for onion and green bell pepper, feel free to experiment with others like mushrooms, jalapeños for some heat, or even spinach for added nutrition. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, so let your creativity shine!