If you have a soft spot for the classic Philly cheesesteak but want to try something a little unexpected and irresistibly crispy, then you are going to love this Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe. This recipe takes the rich, savory flavors of tender ribeye steak, sautéed onions and peppers, and melty provolone cheese, and wraps them up in a golden, crunchy egg roll wrapper. The result is a playful and utterly delicious appetizer that’s perfect for game days, parties, or any time you crave that unbeatable combo of cheesy, meaty goodness with a satisfying crunch. Trust me, once you try these egg rolls, they’ll become a fast favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe is how straightforward and minimal the ingredient list is, yet each one plays an essential role in creating a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you get started:
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak or sirloin: Provides juicy, tender beef that’s full of flavor when cooked just right.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and steak evenly without losing moisture.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds a natural sweetness and slight crunch after cooking.
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced: Brings a fresh, mild pepper flavor and vibrant color to the mix.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth of the filling with subtle garlic notes.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Perfectly seasons the filling without overpowering the ingredients.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right kick of warmth and spice for balance.
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully inside for that classic ooey-gooey cheesesteak experience.
- 10 egg roll wrappers: The crisp, golden shell that holds all the deliciousness together.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures a perfectly crispy finish that’s not greasy when done right.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Steak
Start by heating up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your finely diced onion and green bell pepper to the pan and cook them for around 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. Then, toss in the thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak, cooking it just until it’s nicely browned—this usually takes another 3 to 4 minutes. Remember, the steak should stay tender and juicy, so avoid overcooking it. Season everything with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for that iconic flavor boost. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool just enough to safely handle.
Step 2: Add the Cheese
While the filling is still warm but not too hot, sprinkle in the shredded provolone or mozzarella. Stir gently to combine, allowing the cheese to start melting into that beautiful, melty texture that makes this Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe truly special. This cheesy goodness is what sets these egg rolls apart from your average snack.
Step 3: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper out flat on your work surface so that one corner points toward you like a diamond. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of your cheesesteak filling right into the center. Now comes the folding magic: fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then tuck in the left and right sides snugly, and roll it all away from you as tightly as possible. To seal the edge and keep everything inside during frying, dab a little water along the final corner and press it closed. Repeat this process with all of your wrappers and filling—you’ll end up with 10 beautiful, stuffed egg rolls ready for frying.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot to reach a depth of about 2 inches and heat it up to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the egg rolls in the hot oil in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry each batch for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure every side becomes beautifully golden and crispy. Once done, remove the egg rolls and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. They should be perfectly crunchy on the outside and packed with cheesy, beefy goodness inside.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Simple is best when it comes to garnishing these egg rolls. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich filling. If you like a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes on top can elevate the flavor further. Just keep it light to let the star of the show—the Philly cheesesteak filling—shine through.
Side Dishes
To complement these Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, consider offering a creamy cheese sauce or a tangy ketchup-based dip for dipping. A crisp green salad or some crunchy pickles on the side can also add refreshing textures and balance the rich flavors. For a more substantial pairing, roasted potato wedges or a simple coleslaw would round out any meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Slice the egg rolls in half diagonally and arrange them on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces—think spicy mustard, garlic aioli, or even a zesty sriracha mayo. You can also serve them alongside sliders or mini sandwiches at a party for a full Philly-themed spread that’s bursting with flavor and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, place the cooled egg rolls in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe holds up well and can be reheated to regain much of its crispy charm.
Freezing
These egg rolls freeze beautifully! Assemble them completely but do not fry yet. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month, letting you enjoy this treat anytime without the prep hassle.
Reheating
To revive the crispiness, avoid the microwave if you can. Instead, bake leftover or frozen egg rolls in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. You can also re-fry them briefly in hot oil to get that fresh-from-the-fryer crunch back.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for the egg rolls?
Absolutely! While provolone or mozzarella are traditional for their meltiness and mild flavor, you can experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack if you want some added spice. Just be mindful of how strong the cheese flavor is so it doesn’t overpower the steak.
Is there a healthier way to cook these egg rolls?
Yes! Instead of frying, you can bake the assembled egg rolls at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes. Brush them lightly with oil before baking to encourage crisping. This method delivers a lighter version while still maintaining great texture.
What’s the best cut of beef to use for authentic flavor?
Thinly sliced ribeye is ideal because it’s tender and flavorful. Sirloin is a good alternative if you want something leaner, but avoid tougher cuts as they may not cook as nicely in this quick sauté.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make the filling a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it back to room temperature before filling the egg rolls so the cheese melts properly and the wrappers don’t tear during assembly.
How do I prevent the egg roll wrappers from drying out while assembling?
Keep the wrappers covered with a damp kitchen towel as you work. This keeps them pliable and prevents cracking or tearing when you fold and roll them around the filling.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe is an absolute game changer when it comes to turning a beloved sandwich into a handheld, crispy delight. It’s easy to make, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to wow your family or guests with every crunchy bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how addictive these cheesy, meaty rolls can be!
