One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast: A Comforting Twist on a Classic
If you love the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, this one-pot soup is a must-try. It’s loaded with tender beef, savory vegetables, and creamy broth, giving you all the cheesesteak goodness in a comforting soup. Topped with crispy bacon and served with cheesy toast on the side, this dish is perfect for cozy nights or hearty lunches. Best of all, it’s easy to make and leaves you with just one pot to clean.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
• 1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (such as ribeye or flank steak)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
For the Bacon and Cheesy Toast:
• 4 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• 4 slices of bread (French baguette, sourdough, or your favorite)
• 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter (softened, for spreading on the bread)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
• Thinly slice the beef steak into bite-sized strips.
• Dice the onion, thinly slice the green bell pepper, and mince the garlic.
• Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, crumble it, and set aside for garnish.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced beef steak in batches, searing for 1–2 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
1. Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot.
2. Sauté the diced onion and sliced green bell pepper for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 4: Build the Soup
1. Pour in the beef broth and add Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir well.
2. Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Cream
1. Stir in the heavy cream, mixing thoroughly to create a rich and creamy broth.
2. Simmer for another 5 minutes, being careful not to let the soup boil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheesy Toast
1. Preheat your oven’s broiler.
2. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread and place them on a baking sheet, butter-side up.
3. Top each slice with shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese.
4. Broil for 1–2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon.
2. Serve with the cheesy toast on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Soup
1. Choose the Right Beef: Thinly sliced ribeye or flank steak works best for this recipe. Freeze the beef for 20 minutes before slicing for thinner, even cuts.
2. Customize the Vegetables: Add mushrooms for extra flavor or use red bell pepper for a touch of sweetness.
3. Cheese Options: Provolone is the traditional choice, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar can be used for the toast.
4. Make It Thicker: For a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup before adding the cream.
5. Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground beef or shredded roast beef can be substituted for the sliced steak if you prefer a different texture or want to save time.
2. Is this soup gluten-free?
The soup itself is gluten-free if you ensure the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free. Use gluten-free bread for the cheesy toast.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but keep in mind that soups with cream may separate when frozen. If you plan to freeze, omit the cream and add it after reheating.
4. What can I serve with this soup besides cheesy toast?
This soup pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. You can also serve it in a bread bowl for a fun presentation.
5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sear the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything (except the cream) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Stir in the cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
This One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast is the ultimate comfort food mash-up. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty flavors that will leave everyone at the table satisfied. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a new twist on a classic favorite!