A Family Tradition That Brings People Together
Growing up in a household where food was the heart of every gathering, I learned early on that a great meal had the power to bring people together. One of my favorite memories is of my father, a proud Philadelphia native, standing by the stove, carefully searing thinly sliced steak while the scent of caramelized onions filled the kitchen. He’d tell stories about growing up in Philly, grabbing a hot cheesesteak from a local shop, and savoring every bite of its gooey, meaty goodness.
Since hoagie rolls weren’t always on hand, my mother had the brilliant idea of transforming the beloved cheesesteak into sliders—smaller, shareable versions that were easier to make for a crowd. What started as a simple adaptation quickly became a household staple, served at family game nights, birthday parties, and even lazy Sunday afternoons. These Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sliders have remained a favorite in our home, carrying the same comforting flavors of the classic sandwich but in a more convenient, party-friendly format.
Now, whenever I make these sliders, I feel that same warmth of home. Whether you’re making them for a casual dinner, a game-day gathering, or just because you’re craving something hearty and delicious, these sliders will always deliver.
The Story Behind the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak is one of America’s most iconic sandwiches. Originating in Philadelphia in the 1930s, it was created by hot dog stand owners Pat and Harry Olivieri, who decided to grill up some thinly sliced beef, throw it on a roll, and top it with onions. It quickly gained popularity, leading to the birth of Philly’s cheesesteak culture.
Over time, variations emerged, with different types of cheese (provolone, American, and the controversial Cheez Whiz) and toppings like mushrooms, peppers, and even jalapeños. While traditional cheesesteaks are served on hoagie rolls, sliders offer a modern twist—keeping the rich, indulgent flavors but making them easier to serve and enjoy at parties or family meals.
Why You’ll Love These Sliders
- Quick and Easy – These sliders come together in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
- Packed with Flavor – Juicy, thinly sliced steak, gooey melted cheese, and sautéed onions create a bold, mouthwatering bite.
- Great for Sharing – Their small size makes them ideal for parties, game days, and potlucks.
- Customizable – Whether you prefer classic provolone, a touch of cheddar, or even a spicy kick with jalapeños, you can tweak the flavors to your liking.
- Minimal Cleanup – Everything is baked in one pan, meaning fewer dishes and an easier cleanup.
Cozy Brown Sugar Overnight Oats
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 4 tablespoons chia seeds
- 3-4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (approximately 2 bananas)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (or more, to taste)
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy alternative)
Directions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chia seeds, brown sugar, mashed bananas, vanilla extract, salt, ground cinnamon, and milk until well combined.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the oats to absorb the liquid and flavors.
- Serve: When ready to enjoy, give the oats a good stir and add your preferred toppings, such as additional sliced bananas, granola, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 10g
Note: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. For a grab-and-go breakfast, portion the mixture into individual mason jars before refrigerating. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by varying the amount of brown sugar or adding a touch of maple syrup when serving.
Secrets to the Best Philly Cheesesteak Sliders
1. Choosing the Right Meat
The key to a great cheesesteak is using the right cut of beef. The best options include:
- Ribeye – The most traditional choice, known for its marbling and rich flavor.
- Flank Steak – Leaner but still tender when sliced thinly.
- Sirloin – A great budget-friendly alternative with good flavor.
To achieve ultra-thin slices, try freezing the meat for about 30 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut thin strips that cook quickly and stay tender.
2. Caramelizing the Onions Just Right
Sautéing onions properly is what gives the sliders their signature sweet and savory depth. Cook them low and slow until they turn golden brown and slightly sticky. If you’re short on time, a sprinkle of sugar can help speed up the caramelization process.
3. Picking the Perfect Cheese
While provolone is the most traditional cheese for Philly cheesesteaks, here are some other options:
- American Cheese – For a creamy melt and mild flavor.
- Cheez Whiz – The most controversial yet authentic choice. If you want that classic Philly cheesesteak taste, try it.
- Mozzarella or Cheddar – Great if you want a sharper, bolder flavor.
4. Choosing the Best Rolls
For sliders, soft Hawaiian rolls or brioche buns work best. They soak up the juices while remaining sturdy enough to hold everything together. If you prefer a more traditional approach, use mini hoagie rolls for a closer experience to the real Philly cheesesteak.
5. The Magic of a Buttery Finish
Before baking, brushing the tops of the slider buns with melted butter and garlic adds an irresistible golden crust and enhances the overall flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or parsley gives an extra touch of elegance.
Fun Variations to Try
While the classic Philly cheesesteak sliders are hard to beat, here are a few creative twists to try:
- Spicy Jalapeño Sliders – Add sliced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for a fiery kick.
- Mushroom Swiss Sliders – Sauté mushrooms along with the onions and swap in Swiss cheese for an earthy, rich flavor.
- BBQ Cheesesteak Sliders – Drizzle some BBQ sauce over the steak for a smoky-sweet variation.
- Bacon Lover’s Sliders – Crispy bacon bits take the flavor to a whole new level.
- Vegetarian Option – Swap out the steak for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders ahead of time, cover them tightly, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
3. What are the best side dishes to serve with Philly cheesesteak sliders?
These sliders pair well with:
- Crispy French fries
- Coleslaw for a fresh contrast
- A side of pickles
- Warm cheese dip for extra indulgence
4. Can I freeze Philly cheesesteak sliders?
Yes! Assemble the sliders without baking, wrap them tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
5. What if I don’t have slider buns?
You can use mini hoagie rolls, dinner rolls, or even sliced baguette pieces as a substitute.
Conclusion
These Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish that delivers big, bold flavors in a bite-sized package. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, looking for a simple weeknight meal, or reminiscing about the classic Philly cheesesteak, these sliders will satisfy every craving.
They’re quick, easy to make, and endlessly customizable, making them perfect for any occasion. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection—just like they have in mine.
So, fire up the skillet, layer on the cheese, and enjoy the comforting taste of Philly cheesesteaks in every bite-sized sandwich. Happy cooking!
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Philly Cheesesteak Sliders with Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Easy Philly Cheesesteak Sliders pack all the bold, savory flavors of the classic Philly cheesesteak into a fun, shareable dish. Juicy thin-sliced steak, gooey melted cheese, and caramelized onions come together on soft, buttery slider rolls for the ultimate game-day snack, party appetizer, or family-friendly dinner. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, these sliders will be the star of any meal!
Ingredients
For the steak filling:
- 1 pound ribeye or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the onions:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
For the sliders:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls or brioche slider buns
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Steak Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly sliced steak, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes until browned, then remove from heat.
Caramelize the Onions
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add sliced onions.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and golden brown (about 10-12 minutes).
Assemble the Sliders
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
- Layer the cooked steak evenly over the buns, followed by the caramelized onions.
- Place provolone cheese slices on top and cover with the top half of the buns.
Add the Buttery Topping
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder and brush over the tops of the buns.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Bake and Serve
- Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, serve warm, and enjoy!
Notes
- For ultra-thin steak slices, freeze the meat for 30 minutes before cutting.
- Provolone is traditional, but you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or cheese whiz for a twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F.
- To make ahead, assemble sliders, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
