Have your attempts to make a perfect Philly cheesesteak sandwich at home ended in failure? If the answer is yes, you could be using the wrong steak.
Not all meat is created equal. Some cuts are better than others for achieving the ultimate cheesesteak texture. The steak is the most important part of the sandwich, so choosing the right kind is essential for recipe success.
Not sure what to buy? Keep reading to learn about the best meat for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches.
Best Meat for Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches
If you are cooking a Philly cheesesteak, ribeye steak is the gold standard. Used by the inventor of the famous sandwich, Pat Olivieri, it’s a classic choice.
Ribeye has an ideal texture and fat content for thin slices. It’s right for “frizzling”, the technique you’ll use to fry the steak and onions.
Ribeye meat stays tender throughout the cooking process. It never gets tough or chewy. The marbled fat melts slowly as it cooks, developing deep, delicious flavors.
Some Ribeye Alternatives
You can technically use any beef you want to make a Philly cheesesteak. Like ribeye, flank steak is tender. It is very lean though, so you’ll need to use an extra splash of oil when you cook it.
Hind-quarter steaks like top sirloin or top of round can work well for making cheesesteaks. Keep in mind that they are less marbled and a bit tougher than a ribeye. Consider marinating them for an extra hour or two.
If you are on a budget or cooking for a large crowd, beef sirloin tip is an affordable cut.
Of course, you can be as creative as you want. Go wild and use turkey, or chop up some vegan seitan.
A High-End Suggestion
Are you preparing Philly cheesesteaks for a special occasion? If you have some money to spend, try Japanese wagyu beef. It’s tender, marbled, and full of flavor – like ribeye, but better.
Tips for Making Philly Cheesesteaks at Home
There are a few basic things to remember when cooking cheesesteaks in your own kitchen. Marinating your steak is key since it adds flavor and tenderizes the beef. Choose a recipe that includes instructions for making a marinade.
Slice your beef as thinly as possible so it will crisp up when you fry it. Ask your butcher to do this for you.
If you forget, put the meat in the freezer for an hour before you attempt to slice it yourself. The firmness will make it easier to cut with a knife.
When it’s time to cook the meat, use a pan with a large surface area. Don’t let the meat and veggie bits overlap. They’ll brown up nicely if you give them space.
Easiest Way to Eat a Philly Cheesesteak
Does buying meat and following a Philly cheesesteak recipe sound like too much work? Save yourself the trouble and order takeout from a cheesesteak shop near you. They’re available all over America and the world.
If you live in Los Angeles, visit here to satisfy your craving and support a great local business.
Meat Matters When You Make a Cheesesteak Sandwich
Now that you know about the best meat for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, it’s time to experiment in the kitchen. Try a few different steaks and recipes until you succeed at making a sandwich you love.
If you enjoyed this article about Philly cheesesteak meat, please check out some of the other great content on our site.
