Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: A Crispy Twist on a Classic Favorite
If you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak, then get ready to fall in love with this creative twist—Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls! This recipe takes all the best parts of a traditional cheesesteak—juicy, seasoned beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and gooey, melted cheese—and wraps them in a crispy, golden egg roll shell. Perfect for game days, parties, or just when you’re craving something indulgent, these egg rolls are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through making these delicious egg rolls at home, share tips for perfecting the recipe, and explore some fun variations to try. Plus, we’ll even include ideas for dipping sauces that take these egg rolls to the next level. Let’s get cooking!
The History of Philly Cheesesteak: A Beloved American Classic
The Philly cheesesteak has humble beginnings in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where it was first created in the 1930s by Pat and Harry Olivieri. The brothers, who ran a hot dog stand, decided to try something new by grilling beef and onions, serving it on an Italian roll. A taxi driver who tasted the sandwich suggested they sell it, and it quickly became a hit. The addition of cheese came later, cementing its place as an American favorite.
The magic of the Philly cheesesteak lies in its simplicity—thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese in a soft roll. Our egg roll version preserves these key flavors but adds a satisfying crunch that makes it a standout appetizer or snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ribeye steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped (optional for a sweeter flavor)
- 2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Egg Rolls:
- 12–15 egg roll wrappers
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Small bowl of water (for sealing the wrappers)
For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- Spicy ketchup, cheese sauce, or garlic aioli
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Filling: The Heart of the Egg Roll
- Sauté the Veggies: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and bell peppers, cooking until soft and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. The caramelization adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Beef: Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the thinly sliced steak. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes, ensuring even cooking for maximum flavor.
- Combine & Melt: Mix the steak and veggies together. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Allow the mixture to cool slightly—this prevents the wrappers from becoming soggy.