Ah, the Philly Cheese Beef Skillet! Just saying the name gets my mouth watering. This dish is like a warm hug on a cold day, bringing all the wonderful flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak right to your dinner table without all the fuss of traditional sandwich-making. I can’t help but think of the countless times I’ve shared this recipe with friends and family, and how it always seems to be a hit. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
What’s special about this skillet version is that it’s a one-pan wonder! You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers. Plus, it’s loaded with flavor, and you get that melty, gooey cheese goodness that we all dream of. So, grab your skillet, and let’s dive in!
What’s in Philly Cheese Beef Skillet?
Ground Beef: The heart of this dish! I typically use 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. Feel free to go leaner if you’re watching your fat intake, but it does lose some of that rich, beefy flavor.
Onion: Sautéed until sweet and translucent, onions add a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the beef. I like to use yellow onions, but if you have red or even sweet onions, they work too!
Bell Peppers: A pop of color and crunch! I usually go for a mix of green and red bell peppers for that sweet and slightly bitter bite. Plus, they’re loaded with vitamins!
Garlic: Just a clove or two, finely minced—because garlic makes everything better! It adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that’s hard to beat.
Beef Broth: This creates a nice base for the skillet and keeps everything juicy. I like to use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
Cheese: The star of the show! Provolone is my favorite for that authentic cheesesteak feel, but use cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack if you want to spice things up!
Seasonings: I typically keep it simple with salt, pepper, and a bit of Italian seasoning to enhance the overall flavor. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous.
Is Philly Cheese Beef Skillet Good for You?
Oh, you bet it is! While it’s comfort food at its finest, there are some great benefits here.
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, ground beef is a solid protein source, especially if you opt for leaner cuts. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation.
Bell Peppers: These little beauties are fiber-rich and loaded with vitamins A and C. They add not just color but also a nutritional punch.
On the flip side, it’s important to be mindful of cheese portions, as it can ramp up calories and saturated fat. However, with appropriate portion control, you can enjoy this scrumptious dish without worries!
Ingredients
This recipe generously serves about 4 people. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mix of red and green)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
– Optional: hoagie rolls for serving
How to Make Philly Cheese Beef Skillet?
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender and the onions are translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the beef broth, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes so that all the flavors combine beautifully.
5. Reduce heat to low and sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese over the mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is gooey and melted.
6. Give it a good stir and serve hot! If you’re feeling extra indulgent, spoon it into hoagie rolls for a cheesesteak-inspired treat.
Tips and Twists on Philly Cheese Beef Skillet
If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, here are some ideas to elevate your Philly Cheese Beef Skillet:
– **Add Mushrooms:** Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions and peppers for extra flavor.
– **Spicy Twist:** Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you’re craving a kick.
– **Saucy Version:** For a saucier dish, you can add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce with the broth.
– **Make it Veggie:** Swap the ground beef for mushrooms or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
– **Garnish:** Top with fresh parsley for a pop of freshness and color.
Let me just say, if you try this recipe, you might just find it becoming a staple in your household, just like it has in mine! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. So go ahead, give it a try, and share your thoughts! Happy cooking!
