Philly Cheesesteak Soup Recipe

There is something utterly comforting and downright addictive about this Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Imagine all the mouthwatering flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, transformed into a rich, creamy, and hearty soup that warms you from the inside out. This soup captures the juicy, tender sirloin, sweet bell peppers, and luscious melted cheeses in a velvety broth that’s perfect for any day you need a little extra coziness. If you love nostalgic flavors with a fresh twist, this Philly Cheesesteak Soup is going to be your new go-to recipe fast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple ingredients is half the fun with this recipe because each one plays a vital role in building that classic Philly cheesesteak flavor you crave. From tender sirloin to creamy provolone and refreshing bell peppers, every element brings its own texture, color, and depth to the bowl.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the vegetables gently without overpowering their natural sweetness.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Adds a subtle caramelized sweetness that forms the flavor base.
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Offers a fresh, slightly grassy crunch that echoes the sandwich filling.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Brings a pop of vibrant color and mild sweetness to the soup.
• 1 pound sirloin steak, thinly sliced: The star protein, tender and juicy when browned just right.
• 8 cups beef broth: Creates a hearty, savory foundation full of rich beef flavor.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds a touch of acidity and body to the broth.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Intensifies umami and gives depth with a subtle tang.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A fragrant herb that gently lifts the savory notes.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little exciting heat if you like a tiny kick.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Joins forces with flour to make the luscious roux for the cheese sauce.
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to creamy perfection.
• 3 cups milk: Adds a smooth and velvety body to the soup.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Gives creamy richness and a slight tang that melts beautifully.
• 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese: Key for authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor — melty and mild.
• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese: Enhances stretchiness and a silky mouthfeel.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle aromatic warmth that complements the beef.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts that classic savory backbone without overpowering the fresh onion.
• Crusty rolls: The perfect dipping companion for every spoonful of this hearty soup.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, green brightness as a simple but elegant garnish.
• Extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese: For sprinkling on top and maximizing cheesiness.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and then add your chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook these gently for about 8 to 10 minutes until they soften and develop a slight caramelization, which brings out their natural sugars and intensifies their flavors. This step is crucial as it lays down the sweet and savory base that defines our soup’s character.

Step 2: Brown the Sirloin Steak

Next, introduce the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot. Crank up the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring often until the steak is browned beautifully. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pot; working in batches if needed. Proper browning adds a delicious depth of flavor through those caramelized edges that make all the difference in your Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the beef broth and add the undrained diced tomatoes, scraping the bottom of your pot to lift all the tasty browned bits. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and optional red pepper flakes for a gentle heat. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Then bring everything to a simmer, cover, and let it gently cook on low for at least 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows all those flavors to marry and intensify beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

While your soup base simmers, it’s time to create the richest, creamiest cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the milk in increments, whisking continuously until thickened and silky. Then reduce heat and add softened cream cheese, stirring until silky and smooth. Add shredded provolone and mozzarella cheeses a bit at a time, whisking until the sauce is perfectly velvety and utterly irresistible.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Slowly pour the luscious cheese mixture into your simmering soup base, stirring constantly to combine thoroughly. Heat the soup through gently without boiling to keep the cheese sauce creamy and emulsified. Adjust thickness by adding more broth or simmering a bit longer if needed. Your Philly Cheesesteak Soup is now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Garnishes

To elevate this beloved soup, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of fresh flavor and bright color. Extra shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese melted on the surface adds a gooey, cheesy finish that’s as satisfying visually as it is on the palate. These simple garnishes bring your soup from great to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

Nothing beats serving Philly Cheesesteak Soup with warm, crusty rolls for dipping. The crust provides a perfect crunch while soaking up the creamy, cheesy broth, making each bite a textural delight. A crisp green salad or roasted veggies can complement the richness while rounding out your meal with freshness and color.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can serve this soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an extra cozy touch. Consider sprinkling on crispy fried onions for added crunch or topping with pickled jalapeños to introduce a zesty contrast. Pairing the soup with a sharp cheese spread or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze can also deliver exciting flavor variations that your guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Philly Cheesesteak Soup stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve those rich, layered flavors. Before reheating, give the soup a good stir to reincorporate any settled ingredients and enjoy it just as fresh as the first day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes well for about 2 to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. When you thaw it, do so overnight in the refrigerator to keep the creamy texture intact and avoid separation.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling to prevent the cheese sauce from breaking or becoming grainy. If it thickens too much upon cooling, simply add a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen it up and achieve that perfect creamy consistency again.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While sirloin is ideal for tenderness and flavor, you can substitute ribeye or even top round as long as you slice it thinly against the grain to keep it tender in the soup.

Is it possible to make Philly Cheesesteak Soup vegetarian?

You can! Swap the sirloin with mushrooms or plant-based beef alternatives, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Just adjust seasonings accordingly to keep those rich, savory notes.

How spicy is the soup with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add only a gentle warmth, not overpowering heat. You can easily omit them if you prefer a milder soup or increase slightly if you like a bit more kick.

Can I prepare the soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the steak and sautéing the veggies on the stove, transfer everything (except the cheese sauce) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Add the cheese sauce at the end and heat gently before serving.

What type of cheese works best for authentic Philly flavor?

Provolone is the classic Philly cheesesteak cheese, known for its mild, slightly sharp taste that melts perfectly. The addition of mozzarella gives the soup extra creaminess and stretch, making it extra indulgent.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend enough diving into a big bowl of this Philly Cheesesteak Soup whenever you want something both nostalgic and uniquely comforting. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy all the flavors of a cheesesteak without the mess of a sandwich, and it feels like a warm hug with every spoonful. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be a star in your soup rotation for good!

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