Philly Cheesesteak Pizza Recipe

Are you a fan of the rich, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich? Do you love the convenience and delight of a freshly baked pizza? If so, you’re in for a treat! This Philly Cheesesteak Pizza combines the best of both worlds, offering a delicious, cheesy, and meaty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd on game day or treating your family to a special dinner, this pizza is sure to be a hit. Read on to learn how to make this irresistible Philly Cheesesteak Pizza at home!

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What is Philly Cheesesteak Pizza?

Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is a creative twist on the traditional pizza, inspired by the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak sandwich. Instead of tomato sauce, this pizza features a savory white sauce or a layer of melted cheese, topped with tender slices of beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, all covered with a generous amount of gooey, melted cheese. The result is a hearty, flavorful pizza that captures the essence of a Philly cheesesteak in every bite.

Ingredients List for Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

To create a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dough Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Topping Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye steak or sirloin steak
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded or sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is incredibly versatile, allowing for plenty of substitutions and variations to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:

• Dough: If you’re short on time, use store-bought pizza dough or a pre-baked crust. You can also opt for whole wheat or gluten-free dough to meet specific dietary needs.
• Cheese: Provolone is the classic cheese for Philly cheesesteak, but you can use American cheese, cheddar, or even a cheese sauce like Cheez Whiz for an authentic Philly experience.
• Beef: Ribeye is traditional for a Philly cheesesteak, but you can substitute with sirloin, flank steak, or even ground beef for a more budget-friendly option.
• Vegetables: Add or substitute other vegetables such as banana peppers, roasted red peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and spice.
• Sauce: Instead of the usual pizza sauce, you can use a garlic butter sauce, white béchamel sauce, or even ranch dressing as the base for your pizza.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating a Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is straightforward, but to achieve the perfect balance of flavors, follow these detailed step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Toppings

1. Cook the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced steak. Cook over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the steak is just cooked through. Add the garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the steak in the seasoning. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
2. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle or your preferred shape.
3. Add the Sauce: If using a sauce, spread it evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
4. Layer the Toppings: Start by evenly distributing the sautéed vegetables over the pizza dough. Next, add the cooked steak. Finally, top with shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese if desired.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Transfer to Oven: If using a pizza stone, carefully transfer the assembled pizza to the stone. If not, place the pizza on a baking sheet.
2. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Garnish: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Cook Philly Cheesesteak Pizza: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Philly Cheesesteak Pizza involves several key steps to ensure you achieve a perfectly cooked pizza with balanced flavors:

1. Make the Dough: Begin with a simple pizza dough recipe, allowing it to rise until doubled in size for a chewy, flavorful crust.
2. Prepare the Toppings: Sauté the vegetables until tender and caramelized, and cook the steak just until it’s done to retain its juiciness.
3. Assemble the Pizza: Layer the dough with sauce, if using, followed by the cooked vegetables, steak, and cheeses.
4. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 475°F until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza turns out perfectly:

• Overcooking the Steak: The steak should be cooked just until done, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Overcooked steak can become tough and chewy.
• Overloading with Toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on the toppings, too many can make the pizza soggy and prevent the crust from baking evenly. Stick to a balanced amount of toppings.
• Skipping the Preheat: A well-preheated oven is essential for a crispy crust. Make sure your oven is fully heated before baking the pizza.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is not only delicious but also visually appealing when served well. Here are some tips to present your pizza in style:

1. Cutting the Pizza: Use a sharp pizza cutter or a large knife to slice the pizza into even pieces. Serve on a large wooden board or a pizza stone for a rustic look.
2. Serving Style: Pair the pizza with a simple green salad and a cold drink, like a craft beer or soda, for a complete meal.
3. Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add color and an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

This pizza is versatile and can be served in various settings:

• Family Dinner: Serve the pizza alongside a Caesar salad and some garlic knots for a hearty family meal.
• Game Day: Cut the pizza into small squares and serve it as part of a game-day spread with other snacks and finger foods.
• Casual Gathering: Serve the pizza with a selection of dipping sauces, such as ranch, hot sauce, or garlic aioli, for a fun and interactive meal.

Presentation Ideas for Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Make your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza stand out with these presentation ideas:

• Rustic Style: Serve the pizza on a wooden cutting board with a small bowl of dipping sauce on the side for a casual, rustic presentation.
• Modern Twist: Present the pizza on a sleek, black slate platter and garnish with microgreens for a contemporary, gourmet feel.
• Family Style: Place the pizza on a large round platter in the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves to a slice.

Philly Cheesesteak Pizza Recipe Tips

To ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza turns out perfectly, keep these additional tips in mind:

• Thinly Slice the Steak: For the best texture, make sure to slice the steak as thinly as possible. This helps it cook quickly and evenly.
• Even Cheese Distribution: Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed across the pizza to ensure a consistent melt and coverage.
• Use Fresh Dough: Freshly made pizza dough gives the best results in terms of flavor and texture. If using store-bought dough, allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Pizza ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and toppings ahead of time. Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and keep the cooked toppings in separate containers. Assemble and bake the pizza just before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! While ribeye or sirloin is traditional, you can use flank steak, ground beef, or even chicken for a different take on this pizza.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with Philly Cheesesteak Pizza?
A: A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are great side dishes that complement the rich flavors of the pizza.

Q: How do I prevent my pizza crust from getting soggy?
A: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking, and avoid overloading the pizza with toppings. You can also pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings to help keep it crispy.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is a delicious fusion of two beloved classics, offering a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a game day feast, or just because you’re craving something special, this pizza is sure to impress. With its tender steak, sautéed vegetables, and gooey cheese all atop a perfectly baked crust, it’s a dish that’s hard to resist. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps in this guide, and enjoy a homemade Philly Cheesesteak Pizza that will have everyone coming back for more!

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