Philly Cheesesteak Pizza Recipe

Craving the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but also in the mood for pizza? Why not combine the best of both worlds with a Philly Cheesesteak Pizza? This delicious recipe brings together the rich, cheesy goodness of a pizza with the hearty, beefy flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. It’s the perfect fusion dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family or guests. Keep reading to learn how to make this mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak Pizza step-by-step!

What is Philly Cheesesteak Pizza?

Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is a creative and delicious variation of the traditional pizza, inspired by the famous Philly cheesesteak sandwich. This pizza features a base of creamy cheese sauce or garlic butter, topped with thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and melted provolone or mozzarella cheese. The result is a rich, flavorful pizza that combines the savory taste of a cheesesteak with the cheesy, comforting qualities of a pizza. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day gatherings, or anytime you’re in the mood for something indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients List for Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious pizza:

1. Pizza Dough: 1 pound (store-bought or homemade)
2. Steak: ½ pound (ribeye, sirloin, or skirt steak, thinly sliced)
3. Provolone Cheese: 1 ½ cups (shredded or sliced)
4. Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup (shredded)
5. Onion: 1 medium (thinly sliced)
6. Green Bell Pepper: 1 medium (thinly sliced)
7. Mushrooms: ½ cup (optional, thinly sliced)
8. Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
9. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (divided)
10. Butter: 2 tablespoons (for cooking steak)
11. Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon
12. Salt and Pepper: To taste
13. Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or fresh parsley for garnish.

Ingredients List for the White Sauce (Optional but Recommended)

If you want to add a rich, creamy base to your pizza, a white cheese sauce is an excellent choice. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Butter: 2 tablespoons
2. Flour: 2 tablespoons (all-purpose)
3. Milk: 1 cup
4. Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup (grated)
5. Salt and Pepper: To taste
6. Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon

Substitutions and Variations

This Philly Cheesesteak Pizza recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Cheese Variations: Substitute provolone and mozzarella with cheddar, American cheese, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Meat Alternatives: Use ground beef, chicken, or even turkey for a lighter version of the pizza.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based steak substitutes, vegan cheese, and a dairy-free sauce to create a vegan version of this pizza.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza crust and substitute the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free alternative.
• Add Heat: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the pizza before serving for a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to make the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pizza:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. This helps create a crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Steak: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using) until they are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the White Sauce (Optional): In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, or until lightly browned. Gradually whisk in the milk, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, about ¼ inch. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a pizza stone.
6. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Spread the Sauce: If using the white sauce, spread a thin layer over the rolled-out dough. Alternatively, you can brush the dough with olive oil or garlic butter for a lighter base.
   • Add the Steak: Evenly distribute the cooked steak over the sauce.
   • Layer the Vegetables: Add the sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms on top of the steak.
   • Add the Cheese: Top the pizza with shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the assembled pizza to the preheated oven (or pizza stone) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once the pizza is out of the oven, let it cool for a minute or two before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.

How to Cook Philly Cheesesteak Pizza: A Step-by-Step Guide

To achieve the best results, follow these detailed steps for cooking your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza:

1. Handling the Steak: Thinly sliced steak is key for this recipe. If your steak is too thick, it may be difficult to cook quickly and evenly. You can partially freeze the steak for about 20 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut thin slices.
2. Cooking the Steak: Cook the steak quickly over high heat to sear the outside while keeping the inside tender. Avoid overcooking the steak, as it will cook further in the oven.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables: Cooking the onions and peppers until they are soft and slightly caramelized enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor to the pizza.
4. Rolling Out the Dough: If your dough is too elastic and snaps back, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten before continuing to roll it out.
5. Assembling the Pizza: Distribute the toppings evenly to ensure each slice is packed with flavor. Don’t overload the pizza with too many toppings, as it can prevent the crust from cooking properly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Steak: Overcooked steak can become tough and chewy. Cook it just until it’s browned on the outside but still tender inside.
• Soggy Crust: Too much sauce or toppings can make the crust soggy. Use a thin layer of sauce and avoid piling on too many toppings.
• Skipping the Preheat: A well-preheated oven (and pizza stone, if using) is essential for a crispy crust. Don’t rush this step!
• Underseasoning the Steak: Since the steak is a key flavor component, make sure to season it well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Elevate the presentation of your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza with these simple tips:

• Slice and Serve: Use a sharp pizza cutter or a large chef’s knife to slice the pizza into even pieces. This ensures that each slice holds its toppings.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic flavor.
• Serve on a Wooden Board: Presenting the pizza on a wooden cutting board gives it a rustic, inviting look that’s perfect for a casual meal or entertaining.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

This pizza is versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion:

• Casual Dinner: Serve larger slices as a main dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
• Game Day Appetizer: Cut the pizza into smaller, bite-sized squares for an appetizer that’s perfect for sharing while watching the big game.
• Family Style: Place the whole pizza in the center of the table and let everyone grab a slice, making it a fun and interactive meal.

Presentation Ideas for Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Enhance the appeal of your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza with these presentation ideas:

• Drizzle with Sauce: Finish the pizza with a drizzle of hot sauce, ranch dressing, or a bit of extra cheese sauce for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Use Fresh Veggies: Add a few fresh, raw bell pepper slices or arugula after baking for a crunchy contrast to the melted cheese and tender steak.
• Mini Pizzas: Make individual mini pizzas using smaller portions of dough, perfect for serving at a party or as personal-sized servings.

Philly Cheesesteak Pizza Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is a success:

• Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh steak, quality cheese, and fresh vegetables will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Prepare Toppings in Advance: Cook the steak and sauté the vegetables ahead of time to save time when assembling the pizza.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to add or swap ingredients to make the pizza your own. Consider adding roasted garlic, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even some caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.
• Pre-Bake the Crust: If you prefer a crispier crust, consider pre-baking the dough for a few minutes before adding the toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the steak with chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Just make sure it’s thinly sliced and fully cooked before adding it to the pizza.

2. Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Pizza ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pizza up to the point of baking and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

3. Can I freeze this pizza?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. What type of steak is best for Philly Cheesesteak Pizza?

Ribeye, sirloin, or skirt steak are great choices because they are tender and flavorful. Thinly slicing the steak is key to ensuring it cooks quickly and evenly.

5. How do I prevent the pizza from being too greasy?

Using lean cuts of steak and draining any excess fat from the cooked meat can help reduce greasiness. Additionally, blot the pizza lightly with a paper towel after baking if necessary.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of a classic cheesesteak with the irresistible appeal of pizza. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner, a fun game day treat, or just because you’re in the mood for something indulgent, this recipe provides all the steps and tips you need to create a delicious and satisfying meal. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice (or two) of this incredible Philly Cheesesteak Pizza!

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