Best Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
If you love the bold, cheesy flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but don’t want to deal with slicing steak or paying steakhouse prices, Best Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak is the answer. Traditional cheesesteaks can be expensive, time-consuming, and easy to mess up if the meat isn’t cooked just right.
This version uses ground beef to deliver the same savory, cheesy goodness in a faster, more affordable way—without sacrificing flavor. I’ve made this recipe countless times for quick weeknight dinners, game days, and casual family meals, and it’s always a hit.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make the best ground beef Philly cheesesteak step by step, plus pro tips, variations, serving ideas, and FAQs so it turns out perfect every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Classic Philly cheesesteak flavor made easy
-
Budget-friendly using ground beef
-
Quick and filling—ready in under 30 minutes
-
Family-approved comfort food
Ingredients & Prep
This ground beef Philly cheesesteak keeps things simple while delivering big flavor.
Main Ingredients Prep
-
Ground beef – 80/20 works best for flavor
-
Hoagie rolls or sub rolls – Soft but sturdy
-
Green bell peppers – Thinly sliced
-
Onion – Sliced into strips
Seasonings, Sauces, or Flavor Base
-
Garlic – Minced for depth
-
Worcestershire sauce – Adds classic savory flavor
-
Beef broth (optional) – Keeps meat juicy
Pantry Staples
-
Olive oil or butter – For sautéing
-
Salt – Season gradually
-
Black pepper – Balances the richness
Cheese Options (Choose Your Favorite)
-
Provolone cheese – Mild and melty
-
American cheese – Classic and creamy
-
Cheese sauce – For a true Philly-style twist
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep
-
Slice peppers and onions evenly
-
Split hoagie rolls and set aside
Cooking Method
-
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat
-
Add sliced onions and peppers; cook 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized
-
Remove vegetables and set aside
-
Add ground beef to the same skillet and cook until browned
-
Drain excess grease if needed
-
Season with salt, pepper, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce
-
Add a splash of beef broth if desired for extra juiciness
-
Return peppers and onions to the skillet and stir to combine
-
Lay cheese slices over the beef mixture and cover briefly until melted
Doneness or Texture Check
Your ground beef Philly cheesesteak filling is ready when:
-
Beef is fully cooked and juicy
-
Vegetables are tender
-
Cheese is melted and gooey
Resting or Final Touches
Spoon the hot mixture into hoagie rolls and serve immediately while cheesy and warm.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Overcooking the beef – It dries out quickly
-
Skipping the veggies – They’re essential for flavor
-
Using dry rolls – Soft hoagies work best
Recommended Tools
-
Large skillet
-
Spatula or wooden spoon
-
Knife and cutting board
Storage & Reheating Tips
-
Refrigerate: Store filling up to 3 days
-
Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth
-
Assemble fresh for best texture
Flavor Variations
This ground beef Philly cheesesteak is easy to customize.
Spicy Version
-
Add sliced jalapeños
-
Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes
-
Use pepper jack cheese
Healthy / Special Diet Option
-
Use lean ground beef or ground turkey
-
Serve in lettuce wraps
-
Add extra vegetables like mushrooms
Global Flavor Twist
-
Southwest: Add chipotle seasoning
-
Italian-inspired: Add oregano and mozzarella
-
BBQ-style: Stir in a splash of BBQ sauce
Serving Suggestions
This cheesesteak pairs well with classic sides.
Side Dishes
-
French fries or sweet potato fries
-
Onion rings
-
Simple side salad
Dips & Extras
-
Ketchup or steak sauce
-
Cheese sauce for dipping
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. The beef mixture can be made ahead and reheated. Assemble sandwiches just before serving.
How do I fix common mistakes?
-
Too dry: Add broth or melted butter
-
Too greasy: Drain beef well
-
Bland: Add more salt or Worcestershire sauce
Conclusion
This Best Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak delivers everything you love about the classic sandwich—savory beef, tender peppers and onions, and melty cheese—in a faster, more affordable way. It’s perfect for busy nights, casual meals, or feeding a hungry crowd.
Readers love this recipe because it’s easy, satisfying, and full of flavor. If you enjoyed this dish, you’ll also love a classic cheesesteak casserole or loaded beef sandwiches for another comfort-food favorite.
Once you try it, this version might just become your new go-to.
Best Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 recommended
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup beef broth optional, for juiciness
- ¾ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hoagie or sub rolls
- Cheese Options choose one:
- Provolone cheese slices
- American cheese slices
- Cheese sauce for extra-creamy style
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook 5–7 minutes, until soft and lightly caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Season beef with salt, black pepper, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add beef broth if using and simmer 1–2 minutes for extra juiciness.
- Return peppers and onions to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Lay cheese slices over the beef mixture and cover the skillet briefly until melted.
- Spoon hot, cheesy filling into hoagie rolls and serve immediately.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the beef—it can dry out quickly.
- Soft hoagie rolls work best for soaking up the juices.
- Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep the filling moist.
