Easy One-Pot Cheesesteak Soup

Name: Easy One-Pot Cheesesteak Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb (450 g) shaved beef or thinly sliced steak (such as ribeye); 1 medium onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups diced potatoes (or cauliflower for a low-carb option); 1 cup shredded provolone cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Salt, to taste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 8, 2025

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Few dishes capture the essence of indulgent comfort food like the Philly cheesesteak, a sandwich loaded with thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, peppers, and melty cheese on a crusty hoagie roll. Now, imagine transforming all those incredible flavors into a creamy, savory, and hearty soup that delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. That’s exactly what One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup does—it takes a classic and turns it into an easy, cozy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

This dish brings together tender beef, caramelized onions, sweet bell peppers, and a rich, cheesy broth that perfectly mimics the essence of the beloved sandwich. But unlike the traditional cheesesteak, this soup is more versatile, easy to make in one pot, and doesn’t require a fresh roll to enjoy—though you might still want one for dipping!

The Inspiration Behind Philly Cheesesteak Soup

The Philly cheesesteak sandwich has deep roots in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, dating back to the early 20th century. Created by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, the sandwich quickly gained popularity due to its simple yet irresistible combination of thinly sliced beef and melted cheese on a toasted roll. Over time, variations emerged, with toppings like mushrooms, peppers, and different cheese choices, from provolone to Cheez Whiz.

This soup takes the essential elements of the Philly cheesesteak and transforms them into a warm, creamy, and filling meal. It’s an ideal choice when you’re craving the familiar flavors of a cheesesteak but want something spoonable and cozy instead of a sandwich.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

2 tbsp olive oil – Used for searing the beef and sautéing vegetables
1 lb shaved beef or thinly sliced ribeye – The star protein for the soup
1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth
1 green bell pepper, diced – Classic Philly cheesesteak flavor
1 red bell pepper, diced – Provides color and a touch of sweetness
2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall aroma and flavor
3 cups beef broth – Forms the rich and savory base of the soup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and a savory depth

For the Creamy Texture

1 cup heavy cream – Brings creaminess and a velvety finish
2 cups diced potatoes (or cauliflower for low-carb option) – Adds heartiness and texture

For the Cheesy Finish

1 cup shredded provolone cheese – The signature cheese for Philly cheesesteaks
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Provides a smooth, melty consistency

Seasonings and Garnish

½ tsp smoked paprika – Infuses a subtle smokiness
½ tsp black pepper – Adds mild spice and depth
Salt to taste – Enhances the overall flavor
Fresh parsley (optional) – A touch of freshness for garnish

Directions

1. Sear the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the shaved beef and sear until browned, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the remaining olive oil to the same pot.
Toss in the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Build the Soup Base

Return the seared beef to the pot and season with smoked paprika, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Add the diced potatoes (or cauliflower for low-carb version) and reduce heat to a simmer.
Let it cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently for 5 minutes.
Gradually add the shredded provolone and mozzarella, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm with crusty bread or croutons for dipping.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 30g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 15g (with potatoes)
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 750mg

What Makes Cheesesteak Soup Special?

1. One-Pot Convenience

This soup is made in a single pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. From searing the beef to simmering the broth and melting the cheese, everything comes together in one place for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

2. Perfect for Any Season

While this soup is especially comforting in the colder months, it’s flavorful and hearty enough to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a game-day meal, or a new way to serve a crowd, this dish fits the bill.

3. Classic Cheesesteak Flavor in Every Bite

By incorporating thinly sliced beef, caramelized onions, peppers, and provolone cheese, this soup captures all the flavors of a traditional cheesesteak while offering a creamy, spoonable twist.

4. Easy to Customize

One of the best things about this soup is how adaptable it is. You can make it low-carb by swapping out potatoes for cauliflower, increase the heat with spicy jalapeños, or use different cheeses to adjust the richness and texture.

Secrets to Making the Best Cheesesteak Soup

A great soup relies on technique and ingredient quality. Here’s how to take your One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup to the next level:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef

The key to achieving tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef is using the right cut. Shaved ribeye is the best option, but thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak will also work well. If slicing the beef yourself, freezing it for 15–20 minutes beforehand makes it easier to cut into thin strips.

2. Build Depth with a Flavorful Broth

A great cheesesteak soup needs a well-developed broth. Start by searing the beef to lock in flavor, then build layers by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers before adding the broth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds umami and enhances the richness.

3. Use the Right Cheese

Philly cheesesteaks traditionally use provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese. For the best soup, melt provolone and mozzarella directly into the broth for a smooth, creamy consistency. If you prefer extra cheesiness, top each serving with additional shredded cheese before serving.

4. Control the Creaminess

For a soup that’s rich but not overly heavy, balance heavy cream with broth. If you want a thicker texture, mashing some of the potatoes (or cauliflower for a low-carb version) helps naturally thicken the soup without needing flour or cornstarch.

Variations to Try

1. Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Swap the potatoes for cauliflower to make this soup keto-friendly and low in carbs. The cauliflower absorbs the flavors beautifully while keeping the texture hearty.

2. Spicy Cheesesteak Soup

If you like heat, add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the broth. A pepper jack cheese topping also adds a delicious kick.

3. Mushroom Cheesesteak Soup

Many cheesesteak lovers enjoy mushrooms in their sandwiches, and they work just as well in soup. Sauté sliced cremini or button mushrooms along with the onions and peppers for a deeper, more robust flavor.

4. Extra Cheesy Cheesesteak Soup

If you prefer your soup extra cheesy, add a combination of provolone, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar. You can also stir in a little cream cheese for a thicker, richer consistency.

5. Slow Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Soup

For a hands-off approach, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add the cheese and cream during the last 30 minutes to prevent curdling.

What to Serve with Cheesesteak Soup

Since this soup is rich and indulgent, pairing it with a light and crunchy side can balance the meal. Here are a few great options:

Crusty Bread or Rolls – Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
Garlic Bread – Adds extra flavor and texture to the meal.
Green Salad – A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.
Roasted Vegetables – A side of roasted Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or asparagus makes a great complement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make Cheesesteak Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently over low heat to avoid separating the cream and cheese.

2. Can I Freeze This Soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the cream and cheese. Dairy tends to separate when frozen, so add the cream and cheese after reheating for the best texture.

3. Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Sliced Steak?

Yes! While thinly sliced beef is traditional, ground beef is a budget-friendly option that still delivers great flavor. Just brown it well before adding the broth.

4. What Other Cheeses Can I Use?

You can experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Fontina, Monterey Jack, or even Velveeta for a silkier consistency.

5. How Can I Thicken the Soup?

For a thicker broth, mash some of the potatoes or stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

Conclusion: The Best of Cheesesteak, Now in Soup Form

One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup takes everything you love about a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich and transforms it into a warm, rich, and creamy bowl of comfort. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, meal prepping for the week, or serving it to friends and family, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit.

With bold flavors, an indulgent texture, and easy one-pot preparation, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals with a twist. Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to enjoy Philly cheesesteak in a whole new way!