Sarah BrownWhen deciding what to serve alongside slow cooker Philly cheese steak sandwiches, the possibilities are both delightful and limitless. These sandwiches are hearty and flavorful, so you’ll want to accompany them with sides that complement without overpowering. Think simple and light!
1. Classic Potato Chips: A crunchy classic that adds texture to your meal. They are easy to prepare and provide a satisfying contrast to the soft sandwich.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw works wonders. The crisp veggies and tangy dressing balance out the richness of the beef.
3. Pickles: Sour dill pickles cut through the richness and add an enjoyable tang.
4. French Fries: Because who doesn’t love fries? Whether they’re crispy or crinkle-cut, they’ll be a hit!
5. Simple Salad: A mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can be a brisk, refreshing contrast to the warm, savory sandwiches.
These sides will elevate your slow cooker Philly cheese steak sandwiches, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone will savor.
Ah, the slow cooker Philly cheese steak sandwich—an irresistible blend of juicy beef, melty cheese, and savory toppings that lie between two soft hoagie rolls. As someone who spends countless hours experimenting with recipes, there’s something deeply satisfying about tossing ingredients into a slow cooker and letting it do its magic. The result? A meal that feels gourmet yet requires minimal effort.
Picture this: It’s a cold day outside, and you’re cozy indoors with the aroma of seasoned beef wafting through your kitchen. That’s the kind of comfort food that can turn an ordinary day into something special. Trust me; these sandwiches aren’t just another recipe in the book—they’re a way to bring a bit of hearty joy into your life.
Let’s dive into what makes this dish so great and why it’s become a staple in my home.
What are Slow Cooker Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches?
At its core, a Philly cheese steak sandwich is a simple yet satisfying meal. Originating from Philadelphia, this sandwich typically features thinly sliced beefsteak, onions, and melted cheese, most commonly Cheez Whiz. The slow cooker version takes it up a notch by allowing the meat to simmer in a rich broth, resulting in tender, flavorful beef that practically melts in your mouth.
With a variety of toppings you can choose, like sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms, you can customize your sandwich to suit your taste. This slow cooker version takes advantage of low and slow cooking to infuse flavors deeply into the meat, making it a crowd-pleaser.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Slow Cooker Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches?
You’re probably asking, “What makes this recipe stand out?” Well, for starters, it captures authenticity while also providing many variations. The use of Worcestershire sauce and balsamic vinegar adds an unexpected depth of flavor.
We’re also not skimping on the beef—using a generous chuck roast ensures a juicy and tender outcome. Unlike some recipes that can leave you with a watery mess, this one focuses on balancing the flavors while keeping the beef succulent.
Oh, and let’s not forget the dark ale or stout beer. This is like the secret handshake among flavor aficionados. It lends a rich, malty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
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How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft hoagie filled with juicy, flavorful beef. The savory broth blends with the cheese, creating a glorious melt that feels like a warm hug. The addition of sautéed vegetables brings a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The cheese—whether you use Cheez Whiz or provolone—adds that creamy richness we all love. And the tender meat is nothing short of heavenly. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish:
The ingredients for slow cooker Philly cheese steak sandwiches are simple yet impactful. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 4–5 pounds boneless beef chuck roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking. It breaks down beautifully.
– 1 green bell pepper: Cut into thin ¼-inch slices for added crunch.
– 1 medium yellow onion: Sliced into ¼-inch strips, adding sweetness to the dish.
– 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms: Thinly sliced for an earthy flavor.
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: For that umami kick.
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: It layers the flavor beautifully.
– ½ cup dark ale or stout beer: This adds richness.
– 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed French onion soup: A great base for flavor.
– 1 cup low-sodium beef stock: Helps keep everything moist.
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: For sautéing and richness.
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder: It enhances the overall flavor.
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt: To season the beef.
– 1 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper: For a little kick.
– 10 soft hoagie rolls or sandwich buns: The perfect vehicle for all that deliciousness.
– Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese slices: Your choice for that gooey cheesy layer.
Making sure you have these ingredients prepped will lead to a successful cook—trust me!
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef chuck roast. You want the meat to be flavorful but not greasy. Rub the roast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, giving it a good massage. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to absorb those spices.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, green pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté until they soften, about 5–7 minutes. You want them to be fragrant but not caramelized. Remove them from the heat and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
In your slow cooker, place the seasoned beef chuck roast at the bottom. Pour the Worcestershire sauce and balsamic vinegar over it. Add the sautéed vegetables on top, followed by the can of French onion soup and beef stock. Then comes the dark ale. It will make the meat flavorful and juicy.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 8 hours. This allows the beef to tenderize and absorb all the flavors. If you’re short on time, high heat for 4–5 hours will work, but I highly recommend the low setting for the best results.
Step 5: Shred the Meat
Once it’s time, carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker. It should shred with little effort. Use two forks to pull it apart and return the shredded beef to the pot to soak in the juices.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Slice your hoagie rolls down the middle without cutting all the way through. Pile on the shredded beef and top it generously with cheese. If you’re using Cheez Whiz, a good drizzle does the trick. Otherwise, place provolone slices right on top.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Optionally, you can place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler in your oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese further. Just keep an eye on them—cheese can go from beautifully melted to burnt in no time!
Tips & Tricks On Making Slow Cooker Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches
– Choose the right cut of beef: Chuck roast works best for its marbling, which keeps the meat juicy. Avoid lean cuts; they can dry out.
– Season generously: The key to flavor is in the seasoning. Don’t skimp on salt and pepper.
– Use high-quality cheese: If you’re using provolone, opt for freshly sliced from a deli, as it melts better.
– Leftover beef perfection: If you have leftover shredded beef, use it in other recipes like tacos or nachos.
– Slow cook it right: For the best flavor and texture, allow it to cook low and slow. Patience is a rewarding virtue in the kitchen.
Nutrition Information
Making this recipe can yield a hearty meal. Here’s a rough breakdown per sandwich (without additional toppings or sides):
Keep in mind that cheese and additional toppings will change these numbers. Always feel free to adapt based on your dietary preferences!
How Do I Store This Dish?
Rest assured, these sandwiches will keep well if you have leftovers. Here’s how to store them:
– Refrigerate: Place the shredded beef and any remaining broth in an airtight container. The sandwiches can also be stored assembled, though the rolls may get soggy.
– Freeze: You can freeze the shredded beef in a zip-top bag for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
– Reheat: To reheat, you can microwave or heat on a stovetop until warmed through. If preassembled, you might want to warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Slow Cooker Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches?
You can get creative with this dish by swapping out some ingredients. Here are a few substitutions:
– Chicken breast: If you want a lighter option, shredded chicken works perfectly. Just adjust cooking times as chicken cooks faster.
– Vegetarian style: Use mushrooms or a vegetarian meat substitute for a plant-based version. Portobello caps make for a meaty texture.
– Different peppers: Try using red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor profile.
– Various cheeses: Swap Cheez Whiz for mozzarella or gouda for a different cheese experience that melts beautifully.
– Add spices: Want to kick it up a notch? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne for heat.
Slow Cooker Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches Recipe
Equipment
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 4 –5 pounds boneless beef chuck roast
- 1 green bell pepper
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar:
- ½ cup dark ale or stout beer
- 1 10.5-ounce can condensed French onion soup
- 1 cup low-sodium beef stock
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 10 soft hoagie rolls or sandwich buns
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
- Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef chuck roast. You want the meat to be flavorful but not greasy. Rub the roast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, giving it a good massage. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to absorb those spices.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, green pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté until they soften, about 5–7 minutes. You want them to be fragrant but not caramelized. Remove them from the heat and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
- In your slow cooker, place the seasoned beef chuck roast at the bottom. Pour the Worcestershire sauce and balsamic vinegar over it. Add the sautéed vegetables on top, followed by the can of French onion soup and beef stock. Then comes the dark ale. It will make the meat flavorful and juicy.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 8 hours. This allows the beef to tenderize and absorb all the flavors. If you’re short on time, high heat for 4–5 hours will work, but I highly recommend the low setting for the best results.
Step 5: Shred the Meat
- Once it’s time, carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker. It should shred with little effort. Use two forks to pull it apart and return the shredded beef to the pot to soak in the juices.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Slice your hoagie rolls down the middle without cutting all the way through. Pile on the shredded beef and top it generously with cheese. If you’re using Cheez Whiz, a good drizzle does the trick. Otherwise, place provolone slices right on top.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
- Optionally, you can place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler in your oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese further. Just keep an eye on them—cheese can go from beautifully melted to burnt in no time!
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of beer?
Yes! While dark ales or stouts work beautifully for depth of flavor, you can experiment with lagers or even non-alcoholic beer.
2. How spicy is this sandwich?
The sandwich isn’t inherently spicy. You can control the heat by adding jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.
3. Can you use frozen beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it before cooking for even results.
4. What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No worries! You can cook this in a Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for several hours.
5. Can leftovers be used for breakfast?
Definitely! Shredded beef works wonderfully for omelets, breakfast burritos, or even on a breakfast sandwich with eggs.
Conclusion
Slow cooker Philly cheese steak sandwiches are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. They embody comfort and satisfaction, all while being simple to prepare. As a food enthusiast who loves sharing recipes, I can’t emphasize enough how versatile and rewarding this dish can be.
Whether it’s game day or a cozy night in, these sandwiches will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of preparing it, savor the aromas that fill your kitchen, and delight in each bite that follows. By the way, don’t forget those sides—they truly elevate your culinary creation. Happy cooking!
