Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak: The Ultimate Cheesesteak Recipe
Introduction to Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Are you in the mood for a comforting, cheesy meal that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further! This Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers an explosion of flavors. Perfect for a cozy night in or a hearty family dinner, this dish will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the world of cheesy goodness and savory beef!
A Personal Story Behind My Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Journey
Growing up, I had the pleasure of enjoying Philly cheesesteaks at various diners, each one boasting its own unique twist. However, it wasn’t until I decided to recreate this iconic dish at home that I truly fell in love with it. The joy of cooking with fresh ingredients and the satisfaction of melting cheese over perfectly cooked beef and veggies transformed my kitchen into a hub of delicious aromas. This recipe brings back those fond memories and allows me to share a piece of my culinary journey with you.
What Makes This Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Recipe Special?
This recipe is special for several reasons. First, it uses lean ground beef, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. The combination of colorful bell peppers and onions adds not just visual appeal but also a sweet and savory depth to the dish. Plus, the melty mozzarella and pecorino romano take it over the top, creating that gooey, cheesy experience you crave. And the best part? It can be made in just 40 minutes!
The Full Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb 90% lean ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into strips
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
- 4 oz shredded mozzarella (or dairy-free substitute)
- 2 oz grated pecorino romano or parmesan (or dairy-free substitute)
- No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Instructions
- Heat a large, high-sided pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up.
- Once the oil is hot, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and the onions are translucent. This step enhances their sweetness. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until almost cooked through. Remember to drain excess grease for a leaner dish.
- Return the peppers and onions to the pan, add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Cooking the garlic for just a minute until fragrant elevates the dish.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts completely. This creates a beautiful cheesy layer on top.
- Serve as is or with your favorite bread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days. Reheating in the skillet brings back that fresh taste!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
This Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standalone dish for a low-carb option, or pile it high on a hoagie roll for a classic sandwich experience. For added crunch, consider topping it with fresh arugula or pickled jalapeños. If you’re feeling adventurous, switch up the cheeses—pepper jack adds a nice kick! You can also experiment with different vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Can I use different meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare it ahead of time and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners during the week.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Simply use dairy-free cheese options for both the mozzarella and pecorino romano.
What can I serve with this dish?
Consider serving with a simple side salad or sweet potato fries for a balanced meal. You can also enjoy it with crispy potato chips for added crunch.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 380
- Servings: 4
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb 90% lean ground beef
- 1 unit red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 unit green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 unit yellow onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 unit salt, to taste
- 1 unit pepper, to taste
- 1 unit red pepper flakes, to taste
- 4 oz shredded mozzarella or dairy-free substitute
- 2 oz grated pecorino romano or parmesan or dairy-free substitute
Instructions
- Heat a large, high-sided pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up.
- Once the oil is hot, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and the onions are translucent. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until almost cooked through. Drain excess grease for a leaner dish.
- Return the peppers and onions to the pan, add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
- Serve as is or with bread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days.