Description

If you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks, then get ready for a delectable twist on this classic sandwich! Introducing the One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast—a culinary hug on a cold day that brings all the robust flavors of a traditional cheesesteak into a creamy, comforting soup. This dish perfectly marries the savory, meaty goodness of tender sirloin steak with smoky bacon, fresh vegetables, and, of course, a generous amount of melted cheese.

Not only is this soup incredibly satisfying, but it also offers a super convenient cooking experience. With just one pot, you can create a heartwarming meal that expands on the classic flavors without the fuss of making sandwiches. Imagine diving into a bowl of rich, cheesy broth, with crispy bacon crumbles accentuating each bite, and pairing it with gooey cheesy toast for a flavor explosion that can only come from a beloved city like Philadelphia.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends and resonates with both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
• 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Cheesy Toast:
• 4 slices of bread
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• Substitutions and Variations:
• - Meat Options: If sirloin steak isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with rib-eye or even chicken if you prefer.
• - Vegetarian Alternative: For a meat-free option, you can replace steak with hearty vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, adding mushrooms for the umami flavor.
• - Cheese Choices: Experiment with other cheeses—Fontina, Gouda, or even pepper jack for some spice.
• - Bread Choices: Any bread you have on hand can work for the cheesy toast. Consider sourdough or even a baguette for added texture.

Preparation Method

Begin your culinary journey by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat. You want to render that beautiful fat out of the bacon, allowing it to become deliciously crispy. Once it reaches the perfect texture, carefully use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, letting the excess grease drain off. Don’t discard the bacon fat yet; this liquid gold will serve as your flavorful base for sautéing the vegetables.

Next, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and sliced baby bella mushrooms directly into the pot with the bacon fat. The sizzle will be music to your ears! Sauté the mixture for about five minutes until it softens, releasing their natural flavors. The color will deepen, and your kitchen will begin to smell delightful. At this point, it’s time to invite the minced garlic into the party. Allow it to cook for an additional minute, just enough time for the garlic to become fragrant, but don’t let it burn.

Now, it's steak time! Toss the thinly sliced sirloin into the pot, spreading it evenly across the surface. Cook this meaty goodness for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned. You'll want to keep an eye on it. Perfectly cooked steak will remain juicy and tender while coaxing out flavor from all those sautéed vegetables.

Bring all the elements together by pouring in the beef broth, followed by the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for around 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

The real creamy magic happens next! Slowly pour in the heavy cream and give it a gentle stir. Starting with the provolone cheese, gradually add in both the provolone and sharp cheddar cheese while stirring. The goal here is to create a luxuriously creamy consistency, so take your time and let the cheese fully melt into the soup. Once the soup looks velvety and inviting, take a moment to taste and adjust the seasonings with additional salt or pepper if needed.

While the soup simmers, let’s prepare the cheesy toast, which is as quick and easy as it gets. Preheat your broiler setting. Take the slices of bread and spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese atop the buttered side, covering it all in cheesy goodness. Broil the toast in the oven for about 2 to 3 minutes—but watch it closely! You’re looking for that golden-brown color and bubbly cheese that signals it’s ready to enjoy.

Once your soup is perfectly creamy and your cheesy toast is gloriously cheesy, it’s time to serve. Ladle the hearty Philly cheesesteak soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with those crispy bacon pieces you put aside earlier. This adds a wonderful crunch and depth to each spoonful. You could also sprinkle fresh parsley or chives for a hint of color and flavor.

To elevate your soup experience, break the cheesy toast into pieces for dipping or simply enjoy it alongside a steaming bowl of rich, comforting soup.

Tips and Conclusion

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a rare but delightful occurrence!), store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to about 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth to restore the creamy texture. The cheesy toast can be made fresh every time, but feel free to toast any leftover bread and sprinkle it with fresh cheese when you’re ready to eat.

For a fun variation that’s perfect for gatherings or game nights, consider serving the soup in mini bread bowls for a boozy twist. Just hollow out small sourdough loaves, fill them with the hot soup, and top with extra cheese before broiling. Guests will love their personalized cheesy snack!
Indulging in this One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast is more than just a meal; it's an experience that warms the soul. Each bite transports you to the bustling streets of Philadelphia, making this a nostalgic dish for many. The combination of hearty meat, rich cheese, and comforting toast brings a flair of excitement to the dinner table.

If you’ve enjoyed this invigorating soup, be sure to explore other comforting recipes on our site that capture the essence of home cooking. From heartwarming stews to delightful pasta dishes, there’s a world of flavors waiting for you! Share this recipe with your friends and family, and let the deliciousness spread. Enjoy cooking and happy feasting!