Egg rolls filled with Philly cheesesteak are a creative, mouth-watering fusion of two classic comfort foods—crispy, golden egg rolls stuffed with the savory, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak. This fun twist on the traditional Philly cheesesteak turns it into a hand-held snack or appetizer that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a hearty meal.
The best part about these egg rolls is the combination of flavors and textures that come together in every bite. The crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the rich, cheesy filling inside, making them a satisfying and indulgent treat. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak or just looking for a new way to enjoy the iconic flavors, these egg rolls are sure to impress.
Why Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Are So Irresistible
Philly cheesesteak egg rolls combine two beloved dishes into one delectable creation. The hearty ground beef or steak, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables from the traditional Philly cheesesteak are all rolled up in a crispy, golden egg roll wrapper, making them easy to eat and perfect for dipping. The richness of the meat, the creaminess of the cheese, and the softness of the bell peppers and onions create a balanced, flavorful filling that’s packed with all the beloved components of a Philly cheesesteak.
What’s more, these egg rolls are versatile and customizable, allowing you to use a variety of meats, cheeses, and vegetables based on your personal preferences. The result is a crispy, cheesy, and savory treat that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The Ingredients You’ll Need for Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
To make Philly cheesesteak egg rolls, you’ll need some common ingredients found in most kitchens, as well as a few key components to ensure you capture the authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound of minced meat: Typically, ground beef is used for a cheesesteak filling, but you can also use rib-eye or flank steak for a more authentic, steak-filled experience. Ground beef is a great option if you want a more accessible and quicker alternative.
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce: This adds depth and umami flavor, enhancing the savory taste of the meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt and black pepper powder: For seasoning the meat and vegetables, salt and pepper are essential to balance the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons of butter: This will be used to sauté the onions and bell peppers, creating a flavorful base for the filling.
- 1 onion, diced: The onion provides sweetness and a savory component that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a slight crunch and a bit of sweetness that contrasts the savory meat and cheese.
For the Egg Roll Wrapping:
- 24 egg roll wrappers: These are the base of the dish and provide the crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy interior. Make sure the wrappers are fresh to get the best crunch.
- 12 slices of American cheese: The star of the Philly cheesesteak—melted cheese that brings everything together. You can substitute with provolone, Swiss, or even pepper jack cheese, depending on your preference.
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil: For frying the egg rolls. This amount of oil ensures that the egg rolls are crisped evenly on all sides.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Making Philly cheesesteak egg rolls is a relatively straightforward process, but there are a few tips and tricks to ensure your rolls come out crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make these delicious egg rolls:
1. Cook the Meat
Start by heating a frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced meat (or steak, if using) and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Be careful not to break the meat into too small pieces—it should remain in slightly larger chunks to mimic the classic cheesesteak texture. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper, and stir to combine. Once everything is well-mixed, remove the meat from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pan, cooking and stirring until the vegetables are soft and browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. The caramelization of the onions adds a sweet, savory flavor that enhances the filling. Once the vegetables are cooked, return the beef mixture to the pan, and stir everything together to combine. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes while you prepare the egg roll wrappers.
3. Prepare the Egg Roll Wrappers
Lay the egg roll wrappers on a clean, flat surface. Place half a slice of American cheese on each wrapper, and then spoon about 3 tablespoons of the meat and vegetable mixture onto the center of each wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make it difficult to seal the rolls.
4. Roll the Egg Rolls
To roll the egg rolls, fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the two sides. Use a little water on the edges of the wrapper to help seal it tightly. Continue rolling the egg roll up from the bottom to the top, ensuring that it’s tightly sealed. Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling until all of the egg rolls are made.
5. Fry the Egg Rolls
Heat about 3/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add 3 to 4 egg rolls at a time, frying them for 3 to 4 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn the egg rolls occasionally to ensure that they cook evenly on all sides. Once done, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the egg rolls to cool slightly before serving. These egg rolls are best enjoyed warm, with your favorite dipping sauce. Try pairing them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, cheese sauce, or even a tangy BBQ sauce for a delicious dipping experience.
Tips for Making the Best Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
- Use High-Quality Meat: The key to a great Philly cheesesteak is high-quality meat. While ground beef works well, using rib-eye or flank steak for a more authentic experience can elevate the flavor and texture. Just be sure to slice the steak into small pieces to make it easier to fill the egg rolls.
- Cheese Variations: While American cheese is a classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks, you can get creative with other cheeses. Provolone, mozzarella, and even pepper jack cheese can add different flavor profiles to your egg rolls. Choose a cheese that melts well to ensure a gooey, cheesy filling.
- Veggie Variations: While the recipe calls for bell peppers and onions, feel free to add other vegetables to the filling. Mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted red peppers can provide a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Frying Tips: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature (about 350°F or 175°C) before frying the egg rolls. If the oil is too cool, the egg rolls will absorb excess oil and become soggy. If the oil is too hot, they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through. A thermometer can be useful for checking the oil temperature.
- Dipping Sauces: The possibilities for dipping sauces are endless. From a simple ranch dressing to a creamy cheese dip, there’s a sauce for every palate. You could also serve them with a side of marinara sauce for a classic Italian touch.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: If you have leftovers, store the egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the egg rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also reheat them in a frying pan with a small amount of oil, flipping them until they’re heated through and crispy again.
- Freeze: If you want to make these egg rolls ahead of time, you can freeze them before frying. Lay the un-fried egg rolls on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Egg rolls filled with Philly cheesesteak are a fun, flavorful twist on a classic dish. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they’re sure to be a hit. With the perfect balance of savory beef, melty cheese, and sautéed veggies, wrapped in a crispy shell, they combine all the comforting flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a bite-sized package. Try them today for a delightful fusion of flavors that’s sure to satisfy any cheesesteak craving.
