Philly Cheesesteak Recipe on the Pit Barrel Cooker

Introduction to My Homemade Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe

Hey y'all, it's CJ from Smoky Beginnings, and I'm pumped to share this tasty recipe with you! Today, we're diving into the delicious world of my homemade Philly cheesesteak sandwich recipe cooked right on the Pit Barrel Cooker.

Get ready for some mouthwatering goodness!

In this blog post, I'll walk you through every step of crafting the perfect Philly cheesesteak sandwich. From seasoning the meat to assembling the sandwich, I've got you covered. Plus, I'll sprinkle in some helpful tips and tricks along the way to make sure your sandwich turns out just right.

What to expect

But before we get started, let's talk about what exactly we'll be covering in this guide.

First up, we'll tackle the seasoning blend. I'll share with you the secret mix of spices that will take your cheesesteak to the next level. Then, we'll move on to setting up the Pit Barrel Cooker. I'll show you exactly how to get that perfect charcoal heat for cooking your steak to juicy perfection.

Once the cooker is set up, we'll dive into preparing the vegetable blend. Did you know that adding red wine to your veggies can give them a rich, deep flavor? It's a little trick that I love to use to take my cheesesteaks to the next level.

Next, we'll get into the nitty-gritty of cooking the steaks on the Pit Barrel Cooker. I'll walk you through the process step by step, from adding the hooks to hanging the steaks on the cooker's rods. Plus, I'll share some facts about the benefits of breaking down meat at home, so you can save some cash while still enjoying delicious food.

Finally, we'll finish off our classic Philly cheese steaks with the perfect toppings and assemble them for serving. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

So, if you're ready to become a master of the Pit Barrel Cooker and whip up some seriously tasty Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, let's GO!

What is a Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich?

Ever heard of the Philly Cheesesteak? It's like the rockstar of sandwiches!

Imagine sinking your teeth into a heavenly creation: thinly sliced tender ribeye steak, perfectly caramelized onions, and decadently melty provolone cheese, all nestled within a soft, pillowy yet toasted hoagie roll. It's a flavor explosion that originated on the bustling streets of the East Coast and quickly captured the hearts (and stomachs) of sandwich enthusiasts nationwide.

But here's the kicker: while the classic Philly Cheesesteak stays true to its roots with just steak, onions, and cheese, there are those on the West Coast who like to shake things up. They toss in colorful bell peppers and mushrooms to add their own unique flair. However, ask any die-hard Philly Cheesesteak aficionado, and they'll tell you that simplicity is key - it's all about letting the steak, onions, and cheese shine on that soft, doughy roll.

Now, let's talk ingredients. To craft this mouthwatering famous sandwich in your own kitchen, you'll need top-quality ribeye steak, fresh hoagie rolls, rich provolone cheese slices, sweet onions, creamy mayo, and indulgent garlic butter. It's a lineup of flavors that promises to take your taste buds on a culinary journey they won't soon forget.

Trust me, once you experience the irresistible combination of savory thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, and melty cheese, all encased in a warm, toasted roll, you'll understand why the Philly Cheesesteak holds such a special place in the hearts of food lovers everywhere.

So the next time you're hankering for a satisfying sandwich experience, why not treat yourself to the iconic Philly Cheesesteak? It's a slice of East Coast tradition that's guaranteed to leave you craving more with every delectable bite!

The Best Cut of Beef for Beef Sandwiches

When it comes to crafting a delicious Philly Cheesesteak, the choice of beef is crucial. You want a cut that delivers on flavor and tenderness without breaking the bank. While thinly sliced ribeye steak is the traditional choice for an authentic Philly Cheesesteak, it can sometimes be on the pricier side, especially when you're cooking up a big batch.

That's where my go-to alternative comes in: tender sirloin, particularly petite sirloin. Not only does it offer a comparable level of flavor to top sirloin, but it's also more budget-friendly. Plus, petite sirloin is naturally thinner, which means less slicing for you – a win-win situation!

I've scouted out value packs of petite sirloin at my local grocery store for less than $4 per pound. It's a steal considering the quality and taste it brings to the table.

Opting for sirloin doesn't mean sacrificing authenticity; it's simply a smart and practical choice that still delivers all the deliciousness you'd expect from an authentic Philly Cheesesteak. Whether you're cooking up a batch for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, choosing tender sirloin ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and satisfaction.

So, next time you're whipping up a batch of Philly Cheesesteaks, consider reaching for sirloin.

The Best Cheese for Philly Cheesesteak

When it comes to crafting the perfect Philly Cheese steak, choosing the right cheese is essential for achieving that signature melty goodness. While there are several options out there, mild provolone reigns supreme as the most popular choice among Cheesesteak enthusiasts.

Through rigorous taste-testing, we've sampled various brands of provolone cheese, and one thing became abundantly clear: not all provolone is created equal. While most brands delivered on flavor and texture, we encountered a bump in the road with "aged" provolone from Costco. The intense flavor of aged provolone proved to be overpowering, ultimately detracting from the overall Cheesesteak experience.

Another contender in the cheese arena for Philly Cheesesteaks is white American cheese. This creamy, mild cheese offers a smooth melt and subtle flavor, making it a beloved option among Cheesesteak aficionados. Some purists may argue that nothing beats the classic provolone, but white American cheese holds its own as a delicious alternative.

Interestingly, some eateries in Philadelphia opt for a Velveeta-like cheese sauce to adorn their Cheesesteaks. While this may diverge from tradition, it adds a unique twist to the iconic sandwich. However, after careful consideration, we found that provolone slices of cheese still reigns supreme in terms of flavor and overall satisfaction.

In conclusion, while the debate over the best cheese for Philly Cheesesteaks may continue to rage on, our taste tests have crowned mild melted provolone cheese as the undisputed champion. Its perfect balance of flavor and meltability elevates the Cheesesteak to new heights of culinary delight, ensuring a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

Seasoning Blend Preparation

Alright, let's talk about getting that flavor just right for our Philly cheesesteak sandwiches!

Here's what you'll need for the seasoning blend to make this recipe:

• Salt
• black pepper
• garlic powder
• onion powder
• paprika
• thyme
• basil
• chili powder 

Grab yourself a mixing bowl and add all those tasty ingredients in. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely combined. You want to make sure that each bite of your cheesesteak is packed with flavor, so don't be shy with those spices!

Once your seasoning blend is all mixed up, it's time to season the beef. Take your time here and make sure that each steak is generously coated with the seasoning. You want every inch of meat to be covered in those delicious flavors.

Before applying the seasoning blend to the steaks, take a moment to taste it. This will enable you to fine-tune the seasoning, ensuring that you season with salt and pepper to perfection.

Now, here's another little tip for you: let the steaks hang out for about 30 minutes after you've seasoned them. This gives them time to really soak up all that goodness and ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Pit Barrel Cooker Setup

Now that we've got our seasoning blend ready, it's time to fire up the Pit Barrel Cooker and get cookin'!

Let me walk you through the setup process step by step.

First things first, find yourself a nice spot for your Pit Barrel Cooker. It's best to set it up outdoors where there's plenty of ventilation. Once you've found the perfect spot, it's time to get the charcoal basket filled up.

Grab a bag of your favorite charcoal and fill up the basket about halfway. This should give you enough heat to cook those delicious cheesesteaks to perfection.

Now, it's time to light up the charcoal chimney.

Place some newspaper or fire starters in the bottom of the chimney and fill it up with charcoal. Light the newspaper or fire starters and let the charcoal heat up until it's nice and ashy. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

While you're waiting for the charcoal chimney to do its thing, you can start preparing your vegetable blend. 

Once the charcoal is nice and hot, carefully pour it into the charcoal basket of the Pit Barrel Cooker. Make sure to wear heat-resistant gloves and be careful not to burn yourself. Now, it's time to let the cooker heat up to the perfect temperature for cooking those cheesesteaks.

The Pit Barrel Cooker usually cooks at a temperature of around 275 to 300°F, which is just right for getting that perfect sear on your steaks. It'll take about 30-45 minutes for the cooker to heat up, so sit back, relax, and get ready for some tasty eats!

Vegetable Blend Preparation

Let's talk veggies! For our Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, we're going to need some tasty toppings to go along with that juicy steak.

Here's what you'll need:

• Red pepper
• Yellow pepper
• Mushrooms
• Onions
• Red Wine

These colorful veggies not only add flavor but also pack a punch of nutrition!

Now, let's get chopping. Grab your cutting board and use a sharp knife. Start by slicing up the onions and peppers into thin strips. Then, give those mushrooms a good chop.

The key here is to make sure all your veggies are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

Once your veggies are all chopped up and ready to go, it's time to get cooking. Heat up a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Throw in your veggies and let them cook. 

Now, here's where we can get creative with our seasoning.

I like to keep it simple with just a sprinkle of salt and pepper to let the natural flavors of the veggies shine. But if you're feeling adventurous, you can add in some extra seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.

And here's a little trick to take your veggie blend to the next level: add a splash of red wine! Not only does it add a depth of flavor, but it also helps to deglaze the pan and create a delicious sauce for your veggies.

Let your veggies cook until they're nice and tender, and then you're ready to top off your Philly cheesesteak sandwiches with these tasty toppings. 

Cooking the Steaks on the Pit Barrel Cooker

Now comes the fun part - time to make Philly cheesesteak on the Pit Barrel Cooker! 

Get ready for a delicious recipe that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.

First off, we need to ensure our coals are nice and hot. Adding some lit coals to the unlit ones in the cooker will help evenly distribute the heat, guaranteeing perfectly cooked steaks. It's all about setting the stage for culinary perfection!

While the coals are getting fired up, let's prep our steaks. Using hooks to hang them on the cooker's rods ensures even cooking and infuses them with that irresistible smoky flavor we all crave. Plus, it's pretty cool to watch those steaks sizzle away!

Now, here's where the magic happens. We're aiming for that perfect medium-rare doneness, which means an internal temperature of around 120-125°F. It's the sweet spot for juicy, tender steaks that will elevate our Philly cheesesteak sandwiches to new heights of deliciousness.

And here's a money-saving tip for you: consider breaking down larger cuts of meat at home. Not only does it save you some cash, but it also gives you more control over the quality and freshness of your meat. It's a win-win situation!

As our steaks cook away, take a moment to soak in the joy of outdoor grilling. There's something truly special about cooking under the open sky and sharing delicious food with loved ones. So kick back, relax, and get ready to indulge in some seriously tasty eats!

With our steaks sizzling away on the Pit Barrel Cooker, we're embarking on a culinary journey with this great recipe that promises to impress. Get ready to indulge in tender, flavorful perfection – it's bound to be a meal to remember!

Steaks on the Griddle

Once the smoked steak  has reached an internal temperature of 122 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating that it was perfectly cooked, we carefully took it off the Pit Barrel Cooker. Now, it's time to transition our culinary adventure indoors, where we'll continue to elevate this dish to new heights.

Bringing the steak indoors, we'll utilize a spacious griddle or skillet to achieve the final stage of perfection. But before we dive into the cooking process, it's crucial to allow the steak to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring optimal tenderness and flavor in every bite.

Once the steak has rested, it's time to work our magic on the griddle. Using a sharp knife, we'll cut the steak against the grain, a technique that ensures tenderness and enhances the eating experience. With each slice carefully placed on the griddle, we'll watch as the meat sizzles and caramelizes, infusing it with irresistible flavor.

Now comes the exciting part – cooking the steak to your preferred level of doneness. Whether you prefer a juicy medium-rare or a perfectly seared well-done, the griddle provides the perfect platform to achieve your desired outcome. With each flip and sizzle, the steak transforms into a mouthwatering masterpiece, ready to tantalize your taste buds.

Right before you get to your desired level of doneness it will be time to add cheese slices. I suggest adding at least 2 slices of provolone cheese over a preportioned amount of meat. One the cheese is melted it will be time to turn off the heat and remove the cheesesteak mixture from the griddle and move onto assembling.

How to Prepare the Hoagie Rolls

Creating the perfect hoagie rolls is a crucial step in crafting a top-notch Cheesesteak!

For optimal flavor and texture, it's essential to toast the rolls before assembling your sandwich. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also ensures that the rolls can hold up to the juicy goodness of the Cheesesteak filling.

Here's how to prepare the hoagie rolls:

1. Start by splitting the rolls open, but be sure not to separate them completely. This will create a pocket for all the delicious fillings.
2. Lightly spread butter on the side of each roll.
3. Arrange the rolls, opened up, on a baking sheet.
4. Pop the baking sheet into a preheated oven set to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Allow the rolls to toast until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges.

Once your hoagie rolls are perfectly toasted, it's time to assemble your Cheesesteak masterpiece! Divide the mouthwatering steak mixture evenly between the toasted rolls, and voila – you're ready to serve up some serious sandwich satisfaction.

These Cheesesteak hoagies are substantial enough to satisfy even the hungriest of guests, making them an ideal option for gatherings like Super Bowl Sunday. But let's be honest – they're so delicious that they're perfect for any day of the week!

So go ahead, whip up a batch of these irresistible Cheesesteak hoagies and get ready to indulge in sandwich perfection. Your taste buds will thank you!

Tips for Making Philly Cheesesteaks

Here are some handy tips to ensure your Philly Cheesesteak-making experience is a breeze:

• Prep ahead: Before firing up the grill, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go, (you can set aside the prepped ingredients for later). This includes slicing your steaks and prepping your veggies. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later when everything comes together seamlessly on the grill.
• Chill out: For easier slicing, pop your steak for 30 minutes into the freezer before slicing them thin. This slight chill makes it a breeze to achieve uniform slices, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness in every bite.
• Get creative: While this recipe serves as a fantastic base, don't be afraid to get adventurous with your cheesesteak creations! Experiment with different toppings and cheese combinations to tailor your cheesesteaks to your taste preferences. Add some sautéed mushrooms for extra earthiness, swap out the cheese for Swiss for a classic twist, or even go wild with sliced pepperoni and mozzarella for a pizza-inspired cheesesteak. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild and make your cheesesteaks truly your own!

By following these simple tips and letting your imagination take the reins, you'll be whipping up mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteaks that are sure to impress every time!

Easy Philly Cheesesteak Recipe Finishing Touches and Assembly

Alright, we've got our steaks cooked to perfection, now it's time to put the finishing touches on our Philly cheesesteak sandwiches!

Let me walk you through the final steps.

First up, let's toast those buns to perfection. Grab your grill and heat it up, then throw those buns on there until they're nice and crispy. This adds a delicious crunch to your sandwich and helps to hold all that tasty filling in place. Tip add mayo on the toasted bun to get a phenomenally crispy hoagie roll.

Next, it's time to slice up our cooked steaks. Grab a sharp knife and slice them into thin strips. Then, heat up a griddle and sear those steak slices until they're nice and golden brown. This adds a delicious caramelized flavor to the meat that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Now, here's where things get really tasty - adding the toppings! My personal recommendation? Slather on some creamy mayonnaise for extra flavor and moisture. Trust me, it takes these sandwiches to the next level.

And of course, we can't forget about the cheese. I love to add a slice of provolone cheese to my Philly cheesesteak sandwiches for that melty goodness that we all crave. It adds a delicious creaminess that pairs perfectly with the savory steak and veggies.

Finally, it's time to assemble our sandwiches. Start by laying down a generous helping of the sliced steak in an even layer, then top it off with our delicious vegetable blend. Place 2 slices of provolone cheese on top and let it melt over the warm steak. Then, close up the sandwich with the toasted bun and get ready to dig in!

With these simple steps, you'll have perfectly assembled Philly cheesesteak sandwiches that are sure to impress. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

Homemade Philly Cheesesteaks Conclusion

Wow, what a journey it's been cooking up these mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak sandwiches on the Pit Barrel Cooker!

Let's take a moment to recap the deliciousness we've created.

From seasoning our steaks to perfection, to cooking them up on the Pit Barrel Cooker, and finally assembling our sandwiches with all the tasty toppings, every step of the process has been filled with flavor and fun.

I hope you've enjoyed following along with this recipe as much as I've enjoyed sharing it with you. There's something truly special about cooking outdoors and enjoying delicious food with friends and family.

Remember, no matter what you're cooking up, whether it's Philly cheesesteak sandwiches on the Pit Barrel Cooker or something entirely different, keep grilling and enjoying delicious food. There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of cooking up a tasty meal and sharing it with the ones you love.

So here's to many more delicious meals, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable moments around the grill. Cheers to good food, good friends, and good times!

 Until next time keep those fires burning and those tastebuds tingling

Have a good one.

Make sure to comeback to SmokyBeginnings.com as we are continuously adding new recipes and tips to the site.

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