The Philly cheesesteak, a classic American dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This mouth-watering sandwich, consisting of tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all wrapped in a crusty roll, is a staple of Philadelphia cuisine. But what if you can’t make it to the City of Brotherly Love to try an authentic Philly cheesesteak? Fear not, dear readers, for we have a solution that will bring the flavors of Philly right to your doorstep. In this article, we will show you how to make a delicious Philly cheesesteak using ingredients from Costco.
Why Choose Costco?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why we chose Costco as our go-to store for Philly cheesesteak ingredients. Costco is a membership-based American multinational retailer that offers a wide selection of products, including fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and baked goods. Here are a few reasons why we recommend shopping at Costco for your Philly cheesesteak needs:
- Quality and freshness: Costco is known for its high-quality products, and its meat department is no exception. You can find tender and juicy steaks, perfect for your Philly cheesesteak.
- Affordability: Costco offers competitive prices on its products, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
- Convenience: With its wide selection of products, you can find everything you need for your Philly cheesesteak in one place.
Gathering Ingredients and Supplies
Now that we’ve established why Costco is an excellent choice for your Philly cheesesteak ingredients, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make this delicious sandwich. Here’s a list of ingredients and supplies you’ll need to get started:
- 1.5-2 pounds ribeye or top round steak
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- 1 large onion
- 2 large bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheez Whiz or provolone work well)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray
- Large skillet or griddle
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Cheese slicer (optional)
Choosing the Right Steak
When it comes to choosing the right steak for your Philly cheesesteak, you’ll want to opt for a cut that’s tender and flavorful. Ribeye and top round are excellent choices, as they’re both packed with flavor and have a tender texture. If you prefer a leaner cut of meat, you can also opt for sirloin or flank steak.
Selecting the Perfect Cheese
The cheese is an essential component of any Philly cheesesteak, and you’ll want to choose a variety that melts well and adds flavor to your sandwich. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice, but you can also opt for provolone, mozzarella, or white American cheese.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to start preparing them for your Philly cheesesteak. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Slicing Your Steak
To slice your steak, you’ll want to use a sharp knife and cutting board. Slice the steak against the grain, using a gentle sawing motion. You’ll want to slice the steak into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
Chopping Your Onions and Bell Peppers
To chop your onions and bell peppers, you’ll want to use a sharp knife and cutting board. Chop the onions and bell peppers into thin strips, uniform pieces.
Mincing Your Garlic
To mince your garlic, you’ll want to use a garlic press or a sharp knife. Mince the garlic into small, uniform pieces.
Cooking Your Steak and Vegetables
Now that your ingredients are prepared, it’s time to start cooking your steak and vegetables. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Cooking Your Steak
To cook your steak, you’ll want to heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray to the skillet, then add the steak. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Your Onions and Bell Peppers
To cook your onions and bell peppers, you’ll want to heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to the skillet, then add the onions and bell peppers. Cook the onions and bell peppers for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
Adding Garlic and Cheese
To add garlic and cheese to your Philly cheesesteak, you’ll want to add the minced garlic to the skillet with the onions and bell peppers. Cook the garlic for 1-2 minutes, or until it’s fragrant. Then, add the shredded cheese to the skillet and stir until it’s melted and well combined.
Assembling Your Philly Cheesesteak
Now that your steak and vegetables are cooked, it’s time to assemble your Philly cheesesteak. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Adding Steak to Your Hoagie Roll
To add steak to your hoagie roll, you’ll want to slice the cooked steak into thin strips. Place the steak onto the hoagie roll, leaving a small border around the edges.
Adding Vegetables and Cheese to Your Hoagie Roll
To add vegetables and cheese to your hoagie roll, you’ll want to spoon the cooked onions, bell peppers, and cheese onto the steak. Make sure to leave a small border around the edges of the hoagie roll.
Serving and Enjoying Your Philly Cheesesteak
To serve and enjoy your Philly cheesesteak, you’ll want to place the hoagie roll onto a plate or cutting board. Slice the hoagie roll in half, if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your Philly cheesesteak to the next level:
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Add some spice: To add some spice to your Philly cheesesteak, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the skillet with the onions and bell peppers.
- Try a different cheese: To mix things up, try using a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or white American.
By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a delicious Philly cheesesteak using ingredients from Costco. Whether you’re a fan of classic Philly cuisine or just looking for a tasty sandwich, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, give it a try, and taste the magic of Philly for yourself.
What is the best type of steak to use for a Philly cheesesteak from Costco?
The best type of steak to use for a Philly cheesesteak from Costco is thinly sliced ribeye or top round. These cuts of meat are tender, flavorful, and have the perfect balance of fat and lean meat. Ribeye is a popular choice because it has a lot of marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness to the steak. Top round, on the other hand, is a leaner cut of meat that is still packed with flavor. Both options are available at Costco and can be sliced thinly to make the perfect Philly cheesesteak.
When selecting the steak, look for slices that are about 1/16 inch thick. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and quickly. You can also ask the butcher at Costco to slice the steak for you, or you can slice it yourself at home using a meat slicer or a sharp knife.
How do I cook the steak for a Philly cheesesteak from Costco?
To cook the steak for a Philly cheesesteak from Costco, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan, such as vegetable or canola oil, and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced steak to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be at least 130°F, while medium should be at least 140°F. Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside to rest. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the steak even more tender and flavorful.
What type of cheese is best for a Philly cheesesteak from Costco?
The best type of cheese for a Philly cheesesteak from Costco is Cheez Whiz or provolone. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks because it melts easily and adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the sandwich. Provolone is another popular option because it has a mild, buttery flavor that complements the steak and sautéed onions.
Other types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, can also be used, but they may not melt as well as Cheez Whiz or provolone. If you’re looking for a more authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, stick with Cheez Whiz or provolone. You can find both options at Costco, along with other types of cheese.
How do I assemble the perfect Philly cheesesteak from Costco?
To assemble the perfect Philly cheesesteak from Costco, start by slicing the cooked steak into thin strips. Then, slice a hoagie roll in half and place it under the broiler for a few minutes, or until it’s lightly toasted. This will help melt the cheese and add crunch to the sandwich.
Next, add a layer of sautéed onions to the bottom half of the hoagie roll, followed by a layer of steak. Place a slice or two of cheese on top of the steak, depending on your preference. Finally, place the top half of the hoagie roll on the sandwich and serve immediately. You can also add other toppings, such as ketchup or hot peppers, to give the sandwich extra flavor.
Can I customize my Philly cheesesteak from Costco with other toppings?
Absolutely! While traditional Philly cheesesteaks are made with steak, cheese, and sautéed onions, you can customize your sandwich with other toppings to give it extra flavor. Some popular options include ketchup, hot peppers, and pickles. You can also add other types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, or use different types of meat, such as chicken or pork.
Other toppings you might consider include sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or jalapeños. You can also add a sprinkle of dried oregano or thyme to give the sandwich a bit of Italian flair. Just be sure not to overload the sandwich with too many toppings, or it may become difficult to eat.
How do I store leftover Philly cheesesteaks from Costco?
If you have leftover Philly cheesesteaks from Costco, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat the sandwiches in the microwave or oven until the cheese is melted and the steak is hot.
You can also freeze leftover Philly cheesesteaks for up to 2 months. Simply wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw the sandwiches overnight in the fridge and reheat them in the microwave or oven.
Can I make Philly cheesesteaks from Costco ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Philly cheesesteaks from Costco ahead of time. In fact, making the sandwiches ahead of time can be a great way to save time during the week. Simply cook the steak and sauté the onions ahead of time, then assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
You can also cook the steak and sauté the onions, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches, simply reheat the steak and onions in the microwave or oven, then assemble the sandwiches as desired. This can be a great way to make a quick and easy lunch or dinner during the week.