Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

If you are searching for a hearty, savory, and utterly satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. This creamy, cheesy masterpiece captures all the flavors of the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich but with an irresistible twist that turns it into a luscious, spoonable delight. It’s the kind of recipe that brings friends and family to the table, inviting comfort, joy, and a little indulgence in every bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this soup lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, vibrant colors, and perfect textures. From tender sirloin slices to creamy cheeses and robust seasonings, every component plays its part in creating the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and developing rich flavor base.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Brings a mild bitterness and vibrant green color.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Introduces a subtle sweetness and beautiful red hue.
• 1 pound sirloin steak, thinly sliced: The star protein, providing tender chew and meaty goodness.
• 8 cups beef broth: The hearty liquid base that infuses the soup with beefy warmth.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and a touch of tomato sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A subtle herbaceous note to balance the richness.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat to awaken your palate.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
• 4 tablespoons butter: For the roux, helping to thicken the soup and add creaminess.
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Combines with butter to create a smooth base for the soup’s luxurious texture.
• 3 cups milk: Provides body and creaminess without overwhelming the flavors.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Delivers velvety smoothness and rich tang.
• 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a signature cheesesteak flavor.
• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese: Gives stretchy creaminess that’s irresistible.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Intensifies all the delightful onion flavor notes.
• Crusty rolls, for dipping: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of this delicious soup.
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color.
• Extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese: To sprinkle on top for cheesier satisfaction.

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

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook these until they become tender and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a vibrant, aromatic foundation for your soup and releases the natural sweetness from the onions and peppers, which balances the richness of the cheese and beef later on.

Step 2: Brown the Steak

Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot and cook just until it starts to brown nicely. It’s crucial to slice the steak against the grain so it stays tender and juicy throughout cooking. This quick sear locks in the beef’s flavorful juices that will infuse the broth, bringing that unmistakable Philly cheesesteak essence to your soup.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the beef broth along with the diced tomatoes (undrained), Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything gently and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a savory, richly layered broth.

Step 4: Make the Roux and Cream Base

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour continuously to form a smooth paste. This roux should cook for about 2 minutes without browning. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue stirring until thickened to a creamy consistency. Slowly add this cream base to your soup pot and stir well. This step gives your Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe that luxurious, velvety mouthfeel you’ll fall in love with.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses and Final Seasoning

Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese, shredded provolone, and mozzarella cheeses in batches, stirring until each addition is fully melted and the soup becomes irresistibly cheesy. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. The cheeses create that bold, gooey finishing touch, elevating the soup to a decadent new level of comfort food brilliance.

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

Garnishes

Topping your soup with freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a gentle, fresh note that cuts through the richness. Don’t hold back on extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese on top for that extra cheesiness that melts in your mouth with every spoonful.

Side Dishes

Crusty rolls or a warm baguette are non-negotiable when serving this soup. Their crunchy exterior and fluffy interior make them perfect for dipping and absorbing every ounce of cheesy, meaty goodness. For a lighter side, crisp garden salads with tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast that balances the heaviness of the soup brilliantly.

Creative Ways to Present

For an unforgettable dinner party, serve the soup in mini bread bowls, letting guests scoop the creamy soup alongside the edible vessel. Alternatively, ladle it over toasted garlic croutons for a crunchy surprise or sprinkle crispy fried onions on top for added texture and flavor flair that will wow your friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, so leftovers taste even better the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe freezes well, but keep in mind that the texture of the cream cheese and milk-based soup may change slightly. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw slowly overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat the soup over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup appears too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Add a little extra cheese at this stage if you want to restore its luscious, gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this soup?

Absolutely! While sirloin steak is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use ribeye, flank steak, or even thinly sliced roast beef. Just make sure to slice against the grain thinly to keep the meat tender in the soup.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

You can adapt the recipe by using dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will shift slightly, but it can still come out creamy and delicious.

Can I add mushrooms to Philly Cheesesteak Soup?

Yes! Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy, meaty flavor that complements the steak and cheese beautifully. Add them when you’re sautéing the onions and peppers for best results.

What is the best way to slice the steak for this soup?

Freeze the steak for about 30 minutes to firm it up, then slice very thinly against the grain. This technique ensures tender pieces that cook quickly without becoming tough.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

While possible, the cheese and roux-based cream may not thicken properly in a slow cooker. It’s best to make the broth and meat base first, then stir in the roux and cheeses at the end on the stove for perfect texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe truly deserves a spot in your recipe collection. It’s the perfect combination of homestyle goodness, cheesy indulgence, and savory warmth to brighten up any day. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or cozying up with a bowl for yourself, this soup brings all the joy you expect from a classic Philly cheesesteak—just in a bowl of comforting, creamy soup form. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a new favorite in your kitchen!

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