Philly cheesesteaks are a beloved sandwich, originating from the streets of Philadelphia. Known for their juicy steak, sautéed onions, melted cheese, and soft hoagie rolls, these sandwiches are a perfect meal for gatherings, game days, or a cozy night in. And what better way to cook them than on a Blackstone griddle? This versatile outdoor griddle allows for even cooking and maximizes flavor, making it a top choice for grilling a mouth-watering Philly cheesesteak. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the process of preparing this delicious sandwich from scratch.
What You Need to Get Started
Before you embark on your cheesesteak journey, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients and tools you’ll need. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure a successful cooking experience:
Ingredients
To create the perfect Philly cheesesteak, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 4 slices of provolone cheese (or Cheese Whiz for authenticity)
- 4 hoagie rolls
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
Tools
Having the right tools will enhance your cooking experience:
- Blackstone griddle
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Meat thermometer (optional)
Preparing the Ingredients
To achieve optimal flavor and texture, the preparation of your ingredients is vital.
Slicing the Steak
The star of the Philly cheesesteak is undoubtedly the ribeye steak, known for its marbled fat that provides rich flavor. To slice the steak correctly, follow these tips:
- Chill Your Meat: Place the ribeye in the freezer for about 30 minutes before slicing. This will firm it up and make it easier to cut thinly.
- Slice Against the Grain: Once chilled, remove it from the freezer and slice thinly against the grain. Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick to ensure they cook quickly and remain tender.
Preparing Vegetables
Next, prepare your onions and bell peppers:
- Onions: Peel and slice the onion into thin strips. Sautéing them will release their natural sweetness, adding a delicious caramelized flavor to the sandwich.
- Bell Peppers: If you’re including green bell pepper, slice it into strips similar in size to the onion.
Heating Up the Blackstone Griddle
One of the advantages of a Blackstone griddle is its ability to retain heat, making it perfect for grilling. Preheat your griddle to medium-high heat. Here’s how:
- Turn on the Heat: Turn on all burners underneath the cooking surface of the Blackstone griddle.
- Give it Time: Allow the griddle to preheat for about 10-15 minutes. To check if the griddle is hot enough, drizzle a few drops of water on the surface; if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, you’re ready to go.
Cooking the Philly Cheesesteak
With your ingredients prepped and the griddle hot, it’s time for the most exhilarating part: cooking the cheesesteak.
Cooking the Onions and Bell Peppers
To start:
- Add Oil to the Griddle: Pour a tablespoon of cooking oil onto the griddle and spread it around with your spatula.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Place the sliced onions and bell peppers onto the hot griddle. Stir occasionally, allowing the vegetables to caramelize until they are golden brown and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking the Steak
Now it’s time to cook the steak:
- Spread the Steak: Once the vegetables are done, push them to the side and add the thinly sliced ribeye to the center of the griddle.
- Season the Meat: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the steak. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes without disturbing it. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Mix It Up: After a few minutes, use your spatula to chop and mix the steak with the sautéed onions and peppers.
- Check for Doneness: Cook until the steak is no longer pink, approximately 4-5 minutes total.
Melting the Cheese
To create that signature cheesesteak experience, you want to melt the cheese perfectly:
- Add Cheese: Once the steak is cooked, place the slices of provolone cheese (or a generous ladle of Cheese Whiz) over the meat and vegetables.
- Cover to Melt: Use a spatula to make a slight indentation in the center of the cheese, creating a little dome. Then cover it with a metal bowl or lid for a minute to trap the heat, which will help melt the cheese perfectly.
Assembling the Cheesesteak
Once the cheese is satisfactorily melted, it’s time to assemble your sandwich.
- Prep the Rolls: While the cheese is melting, slice the hoagie rolls in half. You can lightly toast them on the griddle for extra flavor if desired.
- Fill the Rolls: Use your spatula to scoop the steak, vegetables, and melted cheese onto the bottom half of the hoagie roll generously.
- Top with the Other Half: Finally, place the top half of the roll on the freshly filled bottom half.
Serving Suggestions
Your Philly cheesesteak is now ready to be devoured! To enhance the dining experience, consider these serving suggestions:
Pairing Ideas
- Chips: Serve the cheesesteak with potato chips or fries for a complete meal.
- Pickles: A side of dill pickles can add a nice crunch and tang.
- Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of ketchup or hot sauce for a flavourful kick.
Perfect Beverages
To wash down your delicious cheesesteak, consider pairing it with:
- Soda: A classic cola or lemon-lime soda can balance the salty flavors of the sandwich.
- Beer: A light lager or pale ale can complement the richness of the cheese and meat.
Tips for Perfection
To ensure that your Philly cheesesteak is nothing short of exceptional, keep these tips in mind:
- Quality Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor. Ribeye steak is preferred, but you can substitute with sirloin if necessary.
- Temperature Control: Manage your griddle temperature to avoid burning the steak while ensuring veggies are caramelized beautifully.
- Thin Slices: Keep your steak slices thin; this promotes even cooking and a tender bite.
Conclusion
Cooking a Philly cheesesteak on a Blackstone griddle is not just a culinary experience; it’s an adventure that brings rich flavors and mouth-watering aromas to your kitchen or patio. By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll master the art of this iconic sandwich, impressing your friends and family with your grilling prowess. So fire up that griddle, gather your ingredients, and dive into the delicious world of homemade Philly cheesesteaks! Enjoy this delightful culinary creation, and don’t forget to share your masterpiece with others!
What ingredients do I need to make a Philly Cheesesteak on a Blackstone Griddle?
To make a classic Philly Cheesesteak, you will need thinly sliced beef ribeye or sirloin, which is the traditional choice. Along with the meat, you’ll require sliced bell peppers and onions for added flavor and texture. Additionally, you’ll need provolone or Cheez Whiz to create that iconic cheesy experience. Don’t forget to have sandwich rolls—preferably hoagie or Amoroso rolls—on hand for serving.
To season the cheesesteak, a sprinkle of salt and pepper will suffice, but you can also add garlic powder or your favorite seasoning blends to enhance the flavor. Some people like to include mushrooms or jalapeños for a unique twist. Ensure all your ingredients are ready to go before you start cooking, as the process is quick once you’re on the griddle.
How do I prepare the Blackstone Griddle for cooking?
Before you start cooking, it’s vital to preheat your Blackstone Griddle. Set the temperature to medium-high and allow it to heat for about 10-15 minutes. Proper preheating is essential for achieving a good sear on the meat and vegetables. You can also use a few drops of water to test if it’s ready; if the water sizzles and evaporates quickly, the griddle is at the correct temperature.
Once preheated, it’s important to oil the griddle to prevent sticking. A recommended option is to use vegetable oil or any oil with a high smoke point. Spread a thin layer across the cooking surface using a spatula or paper towel. This will create a non-stick barrier that also adds flavor to your cheesesteak as you grill the ingredients.
How thin should I slice the beef for an authentic cheesesteak?
For the best results, the beef should be sliced as thinly as possible, ideally about 1/8 inch or less. Thin slices allow for even cooking and help the meat to absorb the flavors of the seasonings and toppings. If you’re purchasing pre-sliced steak, look for cuts specifically labeled for cheesesteaks. If you’re slicing it yourself, partially freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before cutting; this makes it easier to achieve those thin slices.
Using a sharp knife or a meat slicer can help in achieving the perfect thickness. Remember, consistency in slices ensures that all pieces cook evenly. If you’re unsure about your slicing skills, it’s better to aim for slightly thicker slices than to go too thick, as that can lead to longer cooking times and potentially less desirable texture.
What is the best way to cook the vegetables for a cheesesteak on a Blackstone Griddle?
When cooking the vegetables like onions and bell peppers, start by sautéing them in a separate section of the griddle so they can caramelize without overcooking the beef. Place a little oil on the griddle and add the vegetables once it’s hot. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Cooking them for about 5-7 minutes should render them tender and slightly golden, unlocking their natural sweetness.
After the vegetables are ready, you can mix them in with the meat. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you’re looking for extra texture, consider adding mushrooms or garlic towards the end of the cooking process. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the cooking surface to achieve a perfect sear.
How do I know when the steaks are cooked perfectly?
Cooking steak on a griddle requires attention to detail, as it cooks quickly. The key is to watch for visual and tactile cues. As a general rule, thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin will take about 4-6 minutes to cook. The meat should initially turn from red to brown, indicating it’s being cooked through. You’re aiming for a medium-rare finish, which is usually reached when the internal temperature hits 130-135°F.
To check doneness without a thermometer, use your spatula to press on the meat gently. If it feels firm but still yields to pressure, it’s ready. Avoid overcooking, as that can lead to tough, chewy pieces instead of the tender and juicy texture you want for a cheesesteak. Remember that the meat will continue to cook slightly after removing it from the heat.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! If you’re planning to serve Philly Cheesesteaks for a crowd, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Thinly slice the beef, chop the vegetables, and even pre-cook the steak if it suits your needs. The cooked meat and vegetables can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to serve.
When you’re ready to enjoy your cheesesteaks, just reheat the cooked ingredients on the Blackstone Griddle for a few minutes. Add your cheese of choice towards the end and allow it to melt before spooning everything onto the rolls. Prepping ahead of time is not only convenient for you but also allows for a stress-free cooking experience.
What type of cheese is best for a Philly Cheesesteak?
The most traditional choices for cheese in a Philly Cheesesteak are provolone and Cheez Whiz. Provolone offers a delicious, creamy flavor that melts beautifully, complementing the beef and vegetables without overwhelming them. Cheez Whiz provides a more nostalgic flavor for many, as it has been a long-time favorite for cheesesteaks in Philadelphia.
You can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or a sharp cheddar, if you prefer something different. If you’re feeling adventurous, blue cheese or pepper jack can add unique flavors that can transform your sandwich. Ultimately, the best cheese will depend on your personal taste, so don’t hesitate to try a few variations to find your perfect combination!
How do I serve a Philly Cheesesteak after cooking?
Once your Philly Cheesesteak is cooked and the cheese is melted, it’s time to serve! Start by slicing your sandwich rolls open lengthwise, taking care not to cut all the way through. For an extra touch, you can toast the rolls on the griddle for a minute or two, giving them a crispy exterior that enhances the overall eating experience.
Next, generously scoop the meat and vegetable mixture into each roll, ensuring each sandwich is loaded with flavor. You can add toppings such as hot peppers, additional cheese, or your favorite condiments like ketchup or mayonnaise. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of your homemade cheesesteak!