Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Philly Cheese Steak Soup is a comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of a Philly cheese steak into a warm, creamy soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich combination of beef, veggies, and melted provolone cheese, this soup offers a heartwarming experience that satisfies both hunger and cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of tender beef with sautéed vegetables and savory cheese creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe features straightforward steps that make cooking accessible for all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a meal on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a delightful lunch.
• Comforting and Hearty: Loaded with wholesome ingredients, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in or casual dinner parties.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a favorite among both children and adults, making it an excellent choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will help make the process smooth.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly while providing ample space for all ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables and meat, enhancing texture in your soup.

Ingredients

Philly Cheese Steak Soup is loaded with flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.

Vegetables

• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup diced green bell peppers
• 6 oz sliced white mushrooms

Meat

• 8 oz deli roast beef slices, chopped into small pieces

Dairy

• 3 cups half and half
• 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese
• fresh chopped parsley

Pantry Staples

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup water
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

How to Make Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Drop the butter into a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the butter is melted:
1. Add the diced onions, green peppers, and mushrooms to the pot.
2. Stir well and cook until the onions are translucent.

Step 3: Add the Beef

Add the chopped roast beef to the pot:
– Stir well to combine with vegetables.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic

Add the minced garlic:
– Stir well and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Thicken with Flour

Add the all-purpose flour:
– Stir continuously and cook for about 3 minutes to create a roux.

Step 6: Pour in Broth

Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously:
– Ensure there are no lumps from the flour mixture.

Step 7: Mix in Cream

Add half and half to the pot:
– Stir well to combine all ingredients smoothly.

Step 8: Season

Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper:
– Stir well to ensure even seasoning throughout the soup.

Step 9: Simmer

Bring the soup to a boil:
– Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 10: Prepare Cornstarch Slurry

In a small bowl:
– Pour water over cornstarch and stir until fully dissolved.

Step 11: Thicken Soup

Return soup to a boil:
– Gradually add cornstarch slurry while stirring constantly.

Step 12: Final Cooking

Continue boiling and stirring for an additional 3 minutes:
– This will allow the soup to thicken nicely.

Step 13: Add Cheese

Remove pot from heat:
– Stir in shredded provolone until melted and incorporated into the soup.

Step 14: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional shredded provolone if desired:
– Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side. Enjoy your hearty Philly Cheese Steak Soup!

How to Serve Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Serving Philly Cheese Steak Soup can be a delightful experience, enhancing its rich flavors and creamy texture. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every drop of the creamy broth.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional shredded provolone cheese on top just before serving for an extra cheesy experience that enhances the flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the rich soup, making it visually appealing and adding a hint of herbal flavor.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with light dressing to balance out the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.

In a Bread Bowl

• For an exciting twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This not only looks great but also offers a delicious way to enjoy every last bit.

With Pickled Vegetables

• A side of tangy pickled vegetables can provide a nice contrast to the creamy soup, adding brightness and crunch to your meal.

How to Perfect Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Achieving perfection in your Philly Cheese Steak Soup is easier than you think. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality deli roast beef and fresh vegetables make all the difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Add more salt or pepper if needed, ensuring the flavors are balanced.
• Thicken as Desired: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more cornstarch mixed with water until reaching your desired consistency.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating leftovers, do so slowly over low heat to prevent curdling of the half and half.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld flavors together for a richer taste.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for added depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Philly Cheese Steak Soup can enhance its overall enjoyment. Here are some perfect accompaniments that complement its rich profile.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor that pairs well with the creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad
   The crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provide a refreshing bite against the hearty soup.
3. Potato Chips
   Crispy potato chips add texture and are great for dipping into the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers
   These can be filled with rice or quinoa and add a healthy option alongside your meal.
5. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of your soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted vegetables offer a nutritious side that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Philly Cheese Steak Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong meat: Selecting low-quality or tough meat can affect the texture. Always opt for fresh deli roast beef or other quality meats for the best results.
• Not cooking vegetables properly: Undercooking vegetables can lead to a crunchy texture in the soup. Ensure you sauté them until they are soft and translucent for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the thickening step: Neglecting to thicken the soup can result in a watery consistency. Use cornstarch mixed with water to achieve that creamy texture.
• Overcooking the cheese: Adding cheese too early can make it clump rather than melt smoothly. Stir in the shredded provolone just before serving for a perfect melt.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient has its own flavor profile, so it’s essential to taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper if necessary.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Philly Cheese Steak Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Philly Cheese Steak Soup

• Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Philly Cheese Steak Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature, usually around 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Philly Cheese Steak Soup?

Philly Cheese Steak Soup is a creamy and hearty soup featuring chopped roast beef, vegetables, and melted provolone cheese, inspired by the classic sandwich.

Can I customize my Philly Cheese Steak Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like spinach or swap out provolone cheese for mozzarella or cheddar based on your preference.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of half and half and omit cheese or replace it with vegan cheese alternatives.

What can I serve with Philly Cheese Steak Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, sandwiches, or even a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Philly Cheese Steak Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors as you prepare this delicious dish. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its rich taste!

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