If you love the bold, hearty flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and the gooey, comforting delight of pizza, then Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is made just for you. This mouthwatering fusion dish combines tender slices of seasoned steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and plenty of melty cheese all on a crispy pizza crust. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the best of both worlds and is sure to be a hit at your next game day, family dinner, or casual get-together.
What Makes Philly Cheesesteak Pizza So Special?
Philly cheesesteak is a legendary sandwich originating from Philadelphia, known for its thinly sliced beef, sautéed green peppers, onions, and melted cheese, typically served on a hoagie roll. Philly Cheesesteak Pizza takes those classic ingredients and reimagines them on a pizza crust — transforming a handheld sandwich into a shareable, cheesy pie.
The combination is irresistible: the savory steak flavor melds perfectly with the sweetness of caramelized onions and peppers, while the rich cheese blankets everything in creamy goodness. The crispy crust provides the perfect base to hold all these delicious toppings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a truly authentic and flavorful Philly Cheesesteak Pizza, gather the following ingredients:
- Pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade, depending on your preference.
- Thinly sliced ribeye steak or sirloin: The star of the show, tender and flavorful.
- Bell peppers: Typically green, but red or yellow add sweetness and color.
- Onions: Sautéed until soft and caramelized.
- Cheese: A blend of provolone and mozzarella works beautifully to melt and add flavor.
- Garlic: Adds aroma and depth.
- Olive oil: For sautéing and brushing the crust.
- Salt, pepper, and seasoning: To taste — consider adding a little Worcestershire sauce for that classic steak flavor.
- Optional toppings: Mushrooms or banana peppers for extra layers of flavor.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Steak and Veggies
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add thinly sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking them until they soften and caramelize—about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the pan.
In the same skillet, quickly sear the thin slices of steak, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Cook just until browned and tender, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough
Roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness on a floured surface. Transfer to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Brush the crust lightly with olive oil to ensure a golden, crispy edge.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
Spread a thin layer of olive oil or garlic butter on the dough to keep it moist and flavorful. Evenly distribute the cooked onions and peppers over the dough, then add the steak slices.
Top with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and slices or shredded provolone cheese. For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or dried oregano.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. This pizza is best enjoyed hot, with the gooey cheese and savory steak melding together in every bite.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
- Use thinly sliced steak: The thinner, the better — it cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Don’t overload toppings: Too many toppings can make the crust soggy.
- Caramelize the onions and peppers: This adds natural sweetness that balances the savory steak.
- Choose the right cheese: Provolone adds sharpness, mozzarella adds gooey texture — the combination is perfect.
- Try a garlic butter crust: Brush the crust edges with garlic butter before baking for extra flavor.
Variations to Explore
- Cheesesteak Calzone: Fold the pizza dough over the filling for a handheld version.
- Spicy Cheesesteak Pizza: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Use mushrooms or plant-based steak substitutes.
- White Philly Pizza: Skip the tomato sauce and use a garlic cream sauce base.
Nutritional Considerations
Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is indulgent, but you can lighten it up by using leaner cuts of beef, whole wheat pizza dough, or low-fat cheeses. Add plenty of veggies for extra fiber and nutrients. It’s a filling meal that balances protein, carbs, and fats to keep you satisfied.
Why You’ll Love Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is more than just a meal — it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the best flavors of Philly right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for:
- Game day snacks or parties
- Family dinners with a twist
- Casual weekend meals
- Impressing friends with a creative homemade pizza
It’s easy to prepare but packed with flavor, making it a fantastic way to switch up your pizza nights while satisfying that craving for a classic Philly cheesesteak.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful food, Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is a must-try. It’s the perfect blend of steakhouse favorites with cheesy pizza goodness. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for any home cook looking to bring something new and exciting to the table. Serve it with your favorite sides or a fresh salad for a complete meal everyone will love.
Give this Philly Cheesesteak Pizza recipe a try and enjoy the best of two beloved classics all in one delicious bite!