Name: Warm and Comforting Philly Cheesesteak Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (can substitute with vegetable oil); 1 large Onion (diced; yellow or white onions work best); 1 large Green Bell Pepper (chopped; can substitute with any sweet bell pepper); 1 large Red Bell Pepper (chopped; can substitute with yellow or orange bell peppers); 1 pound Sirloin Steak (can use ribeye or flank steak); 6 cups Beef Broth (low-sodium preferred); 1 can Diced Tomatoes (with juices; fresh tomatoes can be used if preferred); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce (can use soy sauce as an alternative); 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (can use Italian seasoning as a substitute); 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes (optional for heat); to taste Salt (essential seasoning); to taste Black Pepper (essential seasoning); 2 tablespoons Butter (can be replaced with margarine); 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (can use cornstarch as a gluten-free option); 2 cups Milk (use whole milk or heavy cream for a richer sauce); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (can use Neufchâtel cheese as a lower-fat option); 1 cup Provolone Cheese (can substitute with cheddar); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (can swap with another melting cheese); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (can use fresh garlic); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (can use fresh onion); 4 rolls Crusty Rolls (for dipping; can substitute with other bread); 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley (can be replaced with chives or cilantro)

As the chilly evenings approach, I find myself craving something that wraps around my soul like a warm hug. That’s when I whip up my Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Soup, a soulful twist on the classic sandwich that brings comfort and nostalgia in every spoonful. This soup is a hearty melange of tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy broth that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Not only is it kid-friendly, making it a meal that everyone will love, but it’s also perfect for meal prepping ahead of a busy week. What’s not to love about a dish that comforts your heart and warms your kitchen? Ready to dive into a cozy bowl of goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Philly Cheesesteak Soup a Must-Try?

Heartwarming Comfort: This soup combines all the love of a classic cheesesteak into a cozy bowl, perfect for chilly nights.

Effortless Prep: With simple steps, you can whip up this satisfying dish in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Kid-Friendly Delight: Its rich, cheesy flavor is a hit with kids, ensuring a family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will adore.

Flavor Packed: The combination of tender beef, sautéed veggies, and creamy broth creates an explosion of taste that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to add your twist by experimenting with different cheeses or veggies; the possibilities are endless!

For a bit more extra comfort, try pairing it with a side of freshly toasted crusty rolls or explore similar recipes like Crockpot Thai Soup for more hearty options!

Philly Cheesesteak Soup Ingredients

For the Soup
• Olive Oil – Provides moisture and helps sauté vegetables; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor; yellow or white onions work best.
• Green Bell Pepper – Adds a fresh, slight bitterness; can substitute with any sweet bell pepper.
• Red Bell Pepper – Enhances sweetness; can substitute with yellow or orange bell peppers.
• Sirloin Steak – Main protein; use ribeye or flank steak for different flavors and textures.
• Beef Broth – Base of the soup, providing rich flavor; low-sodium is preferred for seasoning control.
• Diced Tomatoes – Adds acidity and texture; fresh tomatoes can be used if preferred.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; soy sauce can be used as an alternative.
• Dried Thyme – Adds earthy notes; Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for heat; omit for a milder soup or replace with Tabasco sauce.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to taste.

For the Cheese Sauce
• Butter – Acts as a base for the cheese sauce; can be replaced with margarine if desired.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce; cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free option.
• Milk – Creates a creamy texture; use whole milk or heavy cream for a richer sauce, or almond milk for a lighter version.
• Cream Cheese – Contributes creaminess to the sauce; can use Neufchâtel cheese as a lower-fat option.
• Provolone Cheese – Adds authentic cheesesteak flavor; substitute with cheddar for a sharper taste.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Provides pull and texture; can swap with another melting cheese as desired.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Enhance flavor depth; fresh garlic and onion can be used instead.

For Serving
• Crusty Rolls – Perfect for dipping; any bread can serve as a substitute, like baguettes or sourdough.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness; can be replaced with chives or cilantro.

Now you’re all set with the ingredients to create a heartwarming bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Soup that the whole family will love! Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as it simmers.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 diced onion, 1 chopped green bell pepper, and 1 chopped red bell pepper. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. This combination will form the flavorful base of your Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

Step 2: Cook the Steak
Add 1 pound of thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot, spreading it out to avoid overcrowding. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned. This step will ensure the meat is tender and flavorful, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in 6 cups of beef broth and add 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juices) to the pot. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom, which will deepen the flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors before moving on to seasoning.

Step 4: Season the Soup
Stir in 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) to the pot. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 30-60 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully in your Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
While the soup is simmering, prepare the cheese sauce in a separate saucepan. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden. This step will thicken your sauce and provide a creamy texture.

Step 6: Create a Creamy Base
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk to the roux, ensuring no lumps form. Continue stirring for about 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Lower the heat, then add 4 ounces of cream cheese and mix until melted and smooth. This creamy base is the key to a rich Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

Step 7: Combine the Sauces
Once the cheese sauce is ready, carefully pour it into the simmering pot of soup. Stir thoroughly to combine both mixtures, heating through on low for an additional 5 minutes. If the soup appears too thick, feel free to adjust the consistency by adding more beef broth as needed, keeping it hearty yet comforting.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm Philly Cheesesteak Soup into bowls and top with additional shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese for that gooey finish. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and aroma. Pair each bowl with crusty rolls on the side for dipping, making this a delightful meal to savor!

Expert Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the steak against the grain ensures tenderness, making every bite melt in your mouth.
Sauté Well: Take time to properly sauté your vegetables; this step develops rich depth of flavor that makes the soup irresistible.
Avoid Boiling Cheese: When adding the cheese sauce, do not boil the soup, as this can cause the cheese to separate.
Season Gradually: Adjust the salt and pepper in each layer, especially after adding broth and tomatoes, to achieve the perfect balance in your Philly Cheesesteak Soup.
Feel Free to Experiment: Add mushrooms or jalapeños for extra flavor; getting creative with your ingredients can elevate the dish to new heights!

What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Soup?

As you indulge in the creamy warmth of Philly Cheesesteak Soup, consider these delightful accompaniments to create a full and comforting meal experience.

Crusty Rolls: Perfect for dipping, these warm rolls soak up the rich broth and add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs beautifully with the cheesy soup, enhancing the comforting nature of the meal.
Fresh Salad: A crisp side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, balancing the flavors.
Cheesy Quesadillas: These crispy, cheesy delights are perfect for dipping and add an extra layer of comfort with their melty goodness.
Potato Chips: For a fun crunch, serve some seasoned potato chips on the side. Their salty goodness complements the creamy soup wonderfully.
Apple Crisp: Finish off your meal with a warm apple crisp. The sweet and tart flavors will contrast nicely with the richness of the soup, leaving everyone satisfied.

Enjoy crafting a cozy and memorable dining experience with these perfect pairings!

Make Ahead Options

These Philly Cheesesteak Soup preparations are perfect for those busy weeknights when time is limited! You can chop all the vegetables and slice the sirloin steak up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the cheese sauce up to 3 days ahead; just store it separately to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup and cheese sauce on the stovetop, blending them together just before enjoying. This way, you’ll have a delightful, comforting meal ready in no time—just as warm and satisfying as if made fresh!

Philly Cheesesteak Soup Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful soup into something uniquely yours!

Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños for a fiery kick, taking your soup to a whole new level of excitement.
Veggie-Packed: Toss in sautéed mushrooms and spinach for added nutrients and a deliciously earthy flavor that elevates the dish.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch for the cheese sauce to keep every spoonful gluten-free while still creamy and delightful.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with smoked gouda or sharp cheddar in place of provolone for a unique flavor profile that delights your taste buds.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream before serving for an added layer of richness and tang that perfectly complements the soup.
Hearty Additions: For more substance, include diced potatoes or cooked quinoa in the mix; they not only fill you up but also add wonderful texture.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh basil or oregano while simmering for an aromatic experience that brings fresh garden flavors straight to your bowl.
Zesty Upgrade: A splash of lemon juice just before serving brightens all the flavors, giving this comforting dish an unexpected zing.

For those looking for more comforting recipes, don’t miss out on trying my delicious Cheddar Garlic Soup or the flavorful Crockpot Thai Soup for a delightful alternative!

How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup is completely cooled before sealing to retain freshness.

Freezer: If saving for later, freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top for expansion during freezing.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess. Avoid boiling to maintain the cheese’s texture.

Make-Ahead Tips: Consider making it ahead for meal prep; the flavors deepen over time, making the soup even more delicious when enjoyed later!

Philly Cheesesteak Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of steak is best to use for Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Absolutely, for the best flavor, I recommend using sirloin steak as indicated in the recipe. However, flank steak or ribeye can add different textures and richness. Just make sure to slice the steak thinly and against the grain for maximum tenderness!

How should I store leftovers after making Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the soup cool completely before sealing the container to retain its freshness and prevent moisture buildup.

Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Yes! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stove, adding a bit of broth if it seems too thick.

What can I do if the soup is too thick after reheating?
If you find that your soup has thickened too much after reheating, don’t worry! You can simply stir in a little bit of beef broth or milk. Heat it gently on low and stir until the desired consistency is reached.

Are there any dietary considerations for making this soup?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can use almond milk and skip the cream cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cream alternative. Moreover, vegetarians can easily swap the beef and broth for plant-based options while still enjoying the comforting flavors of the soup!

Can I add different vegetables to the Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! You can include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini to add color and nutrients. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is perfectly tender.