Philly Cheesesteak Sliders Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak sliders are miniature versions of the famous Philly cheesesteak, but made in a way that’s easier to serve to a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a great appetizer or a hearty snack, these sliders offer all the flavor of the traditional cheesesteak but in a fun, bite-sized format.

The classic Philly cheesesteak is known for its tender beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese. These sliders take that same combination of flavors and condense it into a soft, sweet dinner roll, making them the perfect handheld food that’s both satisfying and easy to enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Steak

1. Choose Your Steak: For a classic Philly cheesesteak, ribeye is the best cut of beef because it’s tender, juicy, and has a nice amount of marbling. Flank steak is also a good option if you prefer a leaner cut. If you can find shaved beef (pre-sliced thin), that works perfectly and saves time.
2. Slice the Steak: If you’re not using pre-sliced beef, slice your steak into very thin strips against the grain. The thinner the slices, the more tender your beef will be when cooked. If you’re using a ribeye, trim off any large fat pieces, though a little fat helps with flavor.
3. Season the Beef: Lightly season the steak with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano or thyme if you prefer a more herbal flavor. Let it rest for a few minutes while you prep the vegetables.

Step 2: Cooking the Vegetables

1. Sauté Onions and Peppers: Heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers (if using) and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and caramelized. This will add sweetness to the filling. Add a pinch of salt to help release the moisture from the vegetables and keep them tender.
2. Add Mushrooms (Optional): If you’re adding mushrooms to your sliders, slice them thinly and add them to the skillet with the onions and peppers. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their moisture. If you’re not using mushrooms, skip this step.

Step 3: Cooking the Steak

1. Cook the Beef: Push the cooked vegetables to the side of the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the steak to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to sear the beef and allow it to brown. Add the garlic during the last minute of cooking, stirring it in to avoid burning.
2. Deglaze the Skillet (Optional): If you notice any browned bits on the bottom of the pan, you can deglaze the skillet by adding beef broth or water. Stir the liquid into the pan, scraping the bottom to release those flavorful bits. This adds depth to the overall filling.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Once the steak is cooked through, return the sautéed onions, peppers, and mushrooms (if using) to the pan and stir everything together. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Drizzle with Worcestershire sauce if desired, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Preparing the Sliders

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Rolls: Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally, leaving the bottom half intact. If using a soft roll like Hawaiian rolls, you can cut through them in one motion to keep the base connected, making them easier to assemble and serve.
3. Butter the Rolls: Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the cut side of each slider roll with melted butter. This will add richness and help them toast nicely in the oven.
4. Assemble the Sliders: Place the bottom half of the rolls in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the Philly cheesesteak mixture evenly over the rolls. Arrange the slices of cheese (provolone or American) over the beef and vegetables. Add the top half of the rolls on top of the cheese, pressing them down slightly to compact the sliders.

Step 5: Baking the Sliders

1. Bake the Sliders: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through. For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
2. Optional Toppings: Once the sliders are baked, you can brush them with a little more melted butter or sprinkle them with chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

Step 6: Serving the Sliders

1. Serve and Enjoy: Once the sliders are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven. Slice through the rolls with a serrated knife, separating them into individual sliders. Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and the filling is warm.

These Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are perfect for serving with crispy fries, a side salad, or even a simple dipping sauce like ketchup or a tangy aioli. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just looking for a quick family dinner, these sliders will surely be a hit.

Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sliders:

1. Beef Choice: Ribeye is the best cut for a Philly cheesesteak because it’s tender and flavorful. Flank steak can also work, but it’s a little less tender. Shaved beef (often sold for Philly cheesesteaks) is an excellent option because it cooks quickly and evenly.
2. Cheese Options: Provolone is a classic cheese for Philly cheesesteaks, but American cheese is also widely used and melts beautifully. Feel free to use your favorite cheese, but keep in mind that the meltability is key for a creamy, gooey filling.
3. Toasting the Rolls: For extra flavor, toast the slider rolls with a little butter before assembling the sliders. This helps prevent them from getting soggy when the filling is added and gives them a nice crisp texture.
4. Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the Philly cheesesteak filling in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before assembling the sliders. This makes the process even quicker when you’re ready to bake the sliders.
5. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preference. Some people like to add green peppers, mushrooms, or even jalapeños for a little spice.
6. Sliders for a Crowd: To make these sliders for a larger crowd, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish. They can also be made in a sheet pan for an even bigger batch.

Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are incredibly versatile. While the traditional ingredients (beef, onions, peppers, and cheese) make for a delicious base, there are plenty of ways to personalize the sliders. Here are some variations to consider:

1. Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Sliders:

For a lighter option, swap out the beef for chicken. Chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced, can be sautéed in the same way as the beef. You can even season the chicken with some smoked paprika or garlic powder to enhance the flavor. The rest of the ingredients—onions, peppers, and cheese—work just as well with chicken.

2. Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Sliders:

For a vegetarian twist, use mushrooms as the main filling. Portobello mushrooms, when sliced and cooked, have a meaty texture that can mimic the experience of eating a Philly cheesesteak. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or spinach to make the filling even more flavorful. Use provolone or mozzarella cheese for a creamy, satisfying topping.

3. Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Sliders:

Add some heat to your sliders with spicy ingredients! Jalapeños, banana peppers, or even a drizzle of hot sauce can bring some heat. For an even spicier kick, you can try adding a bit of chipotle seasoning to the beef or chicken, or mix in a few dashes of cayenne pepper. Pair the spicy sliders with a cooling dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese for balance.

4. BBQ Philly Cheesesteak Sliders:

For a sweet and savory twist, add BBQ sauce to the Philly cheesesteak mixture. After sautéing the onions, peppers, and mushrooms (if using), toss in the beef with a generous splash of your favorite BBQ sauce. This variation gives the sliders a smoky, tangy flavor and pairs beautifully with melty cheese.

5. Bacon Philly Cheesesteak Sliders:

What’s better than a cheesesteak? One with crispy bacon! Adding cooked bacon strips to the Philly cheesesteak filling brings a smoky crunch to the soft, savory sliders. You can either chop the bacon and mix it into the filling or simply lay strips of bacon on top of the meat before adding the cheese and baking.

Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

These Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are not only delicious, but they’re also incredibly adaptable in terms of what you can serve alongside them. Here are some ideas for complementary sides and dips to serve with your sliders:

1. Fries:

A classic accompaniment to any sandwich is a side of fries. You can’t go wrong with crispy, golden French fries. For an even better experience, try sweet potato fries or loaded fries (with cheese, bacon, and green onions).

2. Potato Wedges:

If you’re craving something hearty, potato wedges are a great choice. They are easy to make at home, and you can season them with garlic powder, paprika, and salt for extra flavor.

3. Coleslaw:

The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw pairs perfectly with the rich, savory Philly Cheesesteak Sliders. You can make a classic version or try a vinegar-based slaw for a lighter, more tangy accompaniment.

4. Salad:

For a fresher, lighter option, serve a side salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette will help balance the richness of the sliders.

5. Pickles:

For an additional contrast in texture and flavor, serve your sliders with crispy pickles. Dill pickles or bread-and-butter pickles add an acidic bite that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese.

6. Dipping Sauces:

A great way to elevate the Philly Cheesesteak Sliders is by serving them with dipping sauces. Some options include:

• Ranch dressing: Creamy and mild, it complements the bold flavors of the beef.
• Blue cheese dressing: For a stronger, tangy flavor.
• Buffalo sauce: If you like things spicy, buffalo sauce will add heat and flavor.
• Aioli or garlic butter: For a rich, savory dip.

Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Tips

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are perfect for meal prep or making ahead of time, which makes them an excellent choice for busy weeknights, gatherings, or meal planning. Here are some tips for preparing them in advance:

1. Make the Filling Ahead:

You can cook the Philly cheesesteak filling (beef, onions, peppers, and cheese) a day or two in advance. Let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the sliders, simply reheat the filling in a skillet and then proceed with the assembly and baking process.

2. Freeze the Sliders:

If you want to make Philly Cheesesteak Sliders for later, you can freeze them after they’ve been assembled but before baking. Wrap the sliders tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure the sliders are heated through.

3. Prepare the Rolls:

If you’re using store-bought slider rolls, you can butter them and store them separately until you’re ready to assemble the sliders. You can even lightly toast the rolls in advance to ensure they don’t get soggy once you add the filling.

Healthier Alternatives:

While Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are deliciously indulgent, there are ways to make them a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Here are a few tips to lighten up the dish:

1. Leaner Meat:

Consider swapping out the ribeye or flank steak for leaner cuts of beef, such as sirloin or top round. You can also use ground turkey or chicken breast for a lighter protein choice.

2. Whole-Grain Rolls:

Instead of using traditional slider rolls, opt for whole-grain or whole-wheat rolls. This will add fiber to the dish and make the sliders a bit healthier overall.

3. Low-Fat Cheese:

If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can use a reduced-fat cheese like low-fat provolone or mozzarella. While the texture might be a little different, the flavor will still shine through.

4. Skip the Butter:

If you’re looking to cut down on the richness of the sliders, you can skip buttering the rolls before baking or use a light cooking spray to toast the rolls. This will save you some calories while still getting that crispy texture.

5. More Vegetables:

Increase the vegetable content by adding more peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the filling. You can even mix in some spinach or other leafy greens to add bulk and nutrients without compromising on flavor.

Conclusion:

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a smaller, more convenient form. With juicy steak, melty cheese, and flavorful sautéed onions and peppers, these sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Whether for game day, a party, or just a simple dinner, they’re easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy your craving for a savory sandwich.

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are the ultimate comfort food, combining savory beef, melty cheese, and flavorful veggies into a bite-sized package. Whether you’re serving them for a party, game day, or just a fun family meal, they’re sure to impress. With the versatility to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, these sliders can easily be adapted to fit your needs, whether that means swapping beef for chicken, adding a spicy kick, or even making a vegetarian version.

The best part about this recipe is its flexibility; you can make it ahead, adjust the flavors to your liking, and serve it with a variety of sides and dips. This ensures that no matter the occasion, your Philly Cheesesteak Sliders will be a guaranteed hit.

Enjoy experimenting with this classic dish, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Yield: 12 Sliders

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders Recipe

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Philly Cheesesteak sliders are miniature versions of the famous Philly cheesesteak, but made in a way that's easier to serve to a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a great appetizer or a hearty snack, these sliders offer all the flavor of the traditional cheesesteak but in a fun, bite-sized format.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 slider buns (dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls work well)
• 1 lb ribeye steak (thinly sliced or use pre-sliced steak)
• 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 bell pepper (optional, thinly sliced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz provolone cheese (sliced)
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the onions and peppers: In the same skillet, add onions (and bell peppers if using). Cook over medium heat until soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Assemble the sliders: Slice the buns in half horizontally, keeping the bottoms and tops intact. Place the bottom half of the buns in a baking dish.
5. Layer with steak and veggies: Evenly distribute the cooked steak, onions, and peppers over the bottom half of the buns.
6. Add cheese: Layer the provolone cheese slices on top of the steak and veggies.
7. Top with the bun tops: Place the top halves of the buns over the cheese.
8. Butter the buns: Brush the melted butter over the tops of the slider buns and sprinkle with garlic powder, if desired.
9. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the buns are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
10. Serve: Cut into individual sliders and serve immediately.

Notes

• Meat Selection:
  Ribeye steak is the traditional choice for a Philly cheesesteak due to its tenderness and flavor. However, if you want a leaner option, you can use flank steak or sirloin. You can also opt for pre-shaved steak if you want to skip the slicing step.
  
• Cheese Options:
  Provolone cheese is the classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks, but you can also use American cheese for a more melty and creamy texture. Mozzarella also works well if you prefer a milder flavor.
  For a twist, you can use Cheddar or Pepper Jack if you like it extra sharp or spicy.
  
• Bread Choice:
  Soft Hawaiian rolls or potato rolls are recommended for their slight sweetness and soft texture, but you can use any soft dinner rolls or slider buns that you prefer.
  
• Make-Ahead Instructions:
  Filling: You can prepare the Philly cheesesteak filling (meat, veggies, and cheese) up to 2 days in advance. Just refrigerate it in an airtight container and reheat it before assembling the sliders.
  Sliders for Freezing: Assemble the sliders, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
  
• Spice It Up:
  If you like spicy food, try adding jalapeños, banana peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
  
• Vegetable Variations:
  Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini for a more robust filling.
  
• Serving Suggestions:
  Serve the sliders with a side of crispy fries, potato wedges, or a light salad for a complete meal.
  Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces, like ranch, BBQ sauce, or garlic aioli, to complement the sliders.
  
• Customization:
  You can adjust the number of sliders you want by doubling or halving the recipe and using the appropriate size baking dish.