Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli: Easy Weeknight Meal Idea

Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli—just hearing those words conjures images of a golden-brown, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal. I am absolutely thrilled to guide you through creating this incredible dish, a beloved classic reimagined in a wonderfully convenient form. Imagine biting into a perfectly baked crust, giving way to tender, thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, and a generous amount of melted provolone or mozzarella cheese, all rolled up into a delightful package. It’s the iconic, savory flavors of a Philadelphia staple, expertly wrapped and baked, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a fantastic centerpiece for your next gathering.

While the traditional Philly Cheesesteak hails from the bustling streets of Philadelphia, celebrated for its rich history and passionate fan base, the Stromboli itself boasts a proud Italian-American heritage. This culinary fusion offers a delicious, portable, and often shareable twist on classic fillings. People adore this dish not only for its irresistible combination of savory steak and gooey cheese but also for its fantastic texture—a crispy exterior encasing a soft, flavorful interior that truly delivers on comfort. Preparing this Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli is surprisingly straightforward, delivering all the robust flavors you crave with minimal fuss, proving that truly extraordinary meals don’t always demand hours in the kitchen. It’s comfort food redefined, promising to be a new favorite in your culinary repertoire that you’ll be eager to make again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 1 pound (approximately 450-500g) store-bought pizza dough, ideally at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before use. I often choose a classic white or whole wheat variety, whatever looks good at my local grocery store! This is one of the secrets to making an truly Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for greasing your baking sheet.
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 teaspoon of water (for an egg wash).
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or sesame seeds (optional, for sprinkling on top).
• For the Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Filling:
• 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye steak or sirloin steak. Ask your butcher to slice it paper-thin for you, or partially freeze it at home for about 30 minutes to make it easier to slice yourself. The thinness is key for that classic cheesesteak texture!
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided.
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced. I love the sweetness a good yellow onion brings to this savory dish.
• 1 green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and thinly sliced. The classic touch for any authentic Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli.
• Optional: 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, thinly sliced. While not strictly traditional for a classic cheesesteak, I find they add an incredible earthy depth and extra juiciness to our stromboli.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. This adds a fantastic umami kick to our beef!
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground is always best.
• 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced or shredded. This is the quintessential cheese for a true Philly experience. Its mild, slightly nutty flavor melts beautifully.
• 4 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded. I like to add this for extra stretch and gooeyness, complementing the provolone perfectly.
• Optional: 1/4 cup Cheez Whiz or a similar cheese sauce, warmed (for serving, if you’re a purist who loves that authentic gooey factor, or even to drizzle inside!).

Prepping Our Delicious Filling

Alright, let’s get down to business and prepare the incredible filling for our Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli. This is where all the magic starts to happen, creating those familiar and comforting aromas that will have everyone in the house eagerly awaiting dinner!

1. Slice and Dice Our Veggies: First things first, let’s get our vegetables ready. Take your large yellow onion and slice it as thinly as you possibly can. We want those delicate strands to melt into the filling. Do the same with your green bell pepper, ensuring the slices are uniform in size so they cook evenly. If you’re adding mushrooms, thinly slice those as well. I always aim for consistent cuts because it ensures every bite of our stromboli has a balanced texture and flavor. Set all your prepped vegetables aside in separate bowls.

2. Cook the Steak to Perfection: Now, for the star of our show: the thinly sliced steak! Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add your thinly sliced steak in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will steam the meat instead of searing it, and we want a beautiful, caramelized exterior. Cook the steak for just 1-2 minutes per side, stirring and breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through. Remember, because it’s so thinly sliced, it cooks incredibly fast! Season the steak lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks. Once done, immediately remove the cooked steak from the pan and set it aside in a bowl. We don’t want it to overcook and get tough. This speedy cooking process is part of what makes this an Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli.

3. Sauté Our Flavorful Vegetables: Using the same skillet (don’t worry about wiping it clean, those browned bits are flavor!), reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in your thinly sliced onions and bell peppers. If you’re using mushrooms, add them now too. Sauté these vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are beautifully softened and the onions are translucent and slightly caramelized. You’ll notice a wonderful sweetness developing, especially from the onions, which perfectly complements the savory steak.

4. Infuse with Garlic and Worcestershire: Once the vegetables are tender, add your minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for just 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Immediately stir in the Worcestershire sauce, along with the remaining salt and black pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to ensure all those amazing flavors are well combined. Then, return the cooked steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together gently to mix, allowing the steak to warm through and soak up all the delicious veggie juices and seasonings. Remove the skillet from the heat. This is our glorious filling, ready for assembly!

Assembling Your Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli

Now comes the fun part, bringing all our prepared ingredients together to form that irresistible stromboli! This is where our Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli truly starts to take shape, transforming into a golden-brown, cheesy, meaty delight.

1. Preheat and Prep: Before we start rolling, let’s get our oven ready. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, prepare a large baking sheet by lightly greasing it with olive oil or lining it with parchment paper. Parchment paper is my personal preference as it makes cleanup a breeze and ensures absolutely no sticking!

2. Roll Out the Dough: Generously flour a clean work surface. Take your store-bought pizza dough and place it on the floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out into a large rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches, or roughly 1/4-inch thick. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly rectangular; rustic is charming! The key is to get it thin enough to roll but thick enough to hold all that delicious filling without tearing. If your dough is being springy and difficult to roll, let it rest for 5-10 minutes under a clean kitchen towel, then try again. This rest allows the gluten to relax, making it much more pliable.

3. Layering the Cheese Base: Carefully transfer your rolled-out dough to your prepared baking sheet. Now, we’re going to create a glorious cheese base. Arrange about half of your sliced provolone cheese evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border clear around all edges. This border is crucial for sealing our stromboli later. Next, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella over the provolone. This initial layer of cheese acts as a delicious barrier, helping to prevent the filling from making the dough soggy, and also ensures every slice has that wonderful cheesy pull.

4. Add Our Incredible Filling: Spoon your prepared Philly cheesesteak filling (the steak and veggie mixture) evenly over the cheese layer. Distribute it right up to the edges of the cheese, still keeping that 1-inch dough border free. Try to keep the filling somewhat compact and not too spread out, especially towards the middle, as this will make rolling easier. I usually make sure to get a good mix of steak and veggies in every spoonful, so each bite of the finished Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli is perfectly balanced.

5. Top with More Cheese: Once the filling is distributed, top it with the remaining half of your sliced provolone cheese and the remaining shredded mozzarella. You can even tear some of the provolone slices to fill in any gaps. We want maximum cheese coverage for maximum melty goodness! If you’re feeling adventurous and want an extra gooey kick inside the stromboli, you could drizzle a bit of warm Cheez Whiz over this layer as well, though traditionally it’s served on the side for dipping.

6. Roll and Seal the Stromboli: Now for the grand finale of assembly! Starting from one of the long sides of the rectangle, carefully begin to roll the dough up, tightly but gently, towards the opposite long side. Imagine you’re rolling a giant sushi roll or a sleeping bag. As you roll, ensure the filling stays tucked in. Once you’ve rolled it completely, you should have a seam running along the bottom. Pinch this seam firmly together to seal it completely, ensuring no filling escapes during baking. Also, pinch and tuck in the ends of the stromboli, folding them inward and sealing them well, just like you would seal the ends of a burrito. A good seal is essential for a beautiful and contained Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli!

7. The Golden Finish: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 teaspoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture generously over the entire surface of your rolled stromboli. This egg wash is what gives our stromboli that gorgeous, golden-brown, shiny crust that makes it look so appetizing. If you like, sprinkle your chosen topping – Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or sesame seeds – evenly over the top of the egg wash for extra flavor and visual appeal. Finally, using a sharp knife, make several diagonal slits (about 1 inch deep) across the top of the stromboli. These slits are not just for looks; they allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the stromboli from puffing up too much and ensuring a crispier crust. Plus, they make it easier to slice later!

Baking for Golden Perfection

The moment of truth is here! Baking our Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli transforms it from a simple roll of dough and filling into a golden-brown, irresistible masterpiece with a crisp crust and a melty, savory interior.

1. Into the Hot Oven It Goes: Carefully transfer the baking sheet with your beautifully assembled stromboli into your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Ensure it’s placed in the center rack for even cooking. The heat will quickly begin to activate the yeast in the dough, causing it to rise slightly, and the egg wash will start to turn a lovely golden hue.

2. Baking Time and Visual Cues: Bake the stromboli for approximately 20-30 minutes. The exact baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your dough and filling, so keep an eye on it. You’re looking for a few key indicators of doneness: The crust should be a beautiful, deep golden-brown all over, firm to the touch, and visibly puffed. The cheese inside should be gloriously melted and bubbling, and you might even see some of it peeking through the vents you cut. If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning while allowing the rest of the stromboli to finish cooking through.

3. The All-Important Rest: Once your stromboli is perfectly golden and cooked through, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. This next step is crucial, so resist the urge to slice into it immediately! Let the Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli rest on the baking sheet for at least 10-15 minutes before attempting to slice it. This resting period is incredibly important! It allows the cheese and filling to set slightly, preventing them from oozing out excessively when you cut into it. It also allows the crust to crisp up a little more and the internal temperatures to equalize, making for a much cleaner slice and a more enjoyable eating experience. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Serving Your Masterpiece

The delicious aromas filling your kitchen tell you it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Our Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli is now ready to be carved and savored.

1. Slicing for Sharing: After the resting period, carefully transfer the stromboli from the baking sheet to a large cutting board. Using a sharp, serrated knife (a bread knife works wonders here), slice the stromboli into thick, individual portions, typically 1.5 to 2-inch wide slices. The pre-cut slits you made earlier will serve as a guide and make slicing much easier. You’ll love seeing the cross-section, revealing layers of gooey cheese, tender steak, and perfectly cooked veggies. Each slice should hold together nicely, with that wonderful cheesy pull. Don’t be shy about showing off the beautiful interior to your eager diners!

2. Accompaniments and Dips: While our Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli is a complete meal in itself, serving it with a little something extra can elevate the experience. My favorite pairing is a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping – the tangy tomato brightens up the rich flavors of the stromboli beautifully. If you’re a fan of that classic “wiz wit” vibe, consider serving warm Cheez Whiz or a homemade cheese sauce on the side for an authentic Philly touch. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes a fantastic counterpoint, adding freshness and crunch to balance the richness of the stromboli. This makes for a truly satisfying and easy family dinner or a fantastic game-day treat.

3. Storage and Reheating: If by some miracle you have leftovers (it’s rare, I know!), they store beautifully. Allow any remaining stromboli to cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you have a few options: For the best results, reheat slices in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust has crisped up again. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that the crust won’t be as crispy. However you choose to reheat, this Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli remains a delicious and convenient meal even on busy weeknights!

Conclusion:

Friends, if you’ve been on the hunt for a recipe that delivers on all fronts—unforgettable flavor, impressive presentation, and surprising ease—then your search ends here. This isn’t just another dish; it’s a culinary triumph waiting to happen in your very own kitchen. I’ve poured my heart into crafting a recipe that demystifies the art of the stromboli, transforming what might seem like a complex endeavor into something genuinely accessible and incredibly rewarding. The sheer delight of biting into that perfectly golden, crispy crust, discovering layers of tender, savory steak, sweet, caramelized onions, and a generous, gooey blend of melted cheeses is an experience everyone deserves to savor. It’s comfort food elevated, a crowd-pleaser that works equally well for a casual weeknight dinner, a lively game-day party, or even a special gathering where you want to impress without the stress. This is truly the essence of what makes our Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli a profound must-try. It captures all the iconic, irresistible flavors of its sandwich counterpart but brilliantly reinvents them into a shareable, hand-held masterpiece. Trust me, once you experience the joy of making and tasting this, you’ll understand why it’s destined to become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire.

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge to create this deliciousness, let’s talk about taking your stromboli experience to the next level. While it’s absolutely fantastic on its own, a simple side can truly complete the meal. I often serve slices of this golden beauty with a fresh, crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette; the brightness of the salad cuts through the richness beautifully. Alternatively, for a more indulgent pairing, a warm bowl of tomato soup makes for a wonderfully cozy and satisfying combination. And don’t forget the dipping sauces! Marinara sauce is a classic choice, offering a burst of tangy tomato flavor, but feel free to experiment with a creamy cheese sauce, a spicy sriracha mayo, or even a homemade garlic aioli for an extra layer of gourmet flair.

The true beauty of this recipe also lies in its incredible versatility. Don’t be afraid to make it your own! Here are a few ideas to spark your culinary creativity:

Personalize Your Stromboli:

• Protein Swaps: Craving something different? Try thinly sliced chicken breast for a “Philly Chicken Cheesesteak” version, or for a delicious vegetarian option, sautéed portobello mushrooms or a vibrant mix of bell peppers and onions can stand in wonderfully for the meat.
• Cheese, Please! While provolone and mozzarella are stellar, feel free to experiment. A sharp cheddar, creamy Monterey Jack, or even smoked gouda can add intriguing new dimensions of flavor. A blend of several cheeses often yields the best, most melty results.
• Veggie Boost: Load up on your favorite vegetables! Add extra bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, thinly sliced jalapeños for a kick, or some fresh spinach. Just remember to pre-cook any high-moisture veggies to avoid a soggy stromboli.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of garlic powder, or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor profile, making each bite even more exciting.

The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to adapt this recipe to suit any taste or occasion. Imagine a mini version for appetizers at your next gathering – simply cut the dough into smaller rectangles before filling and rolling. It’s an adaptable canvas for your culinary imagination!

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on this incredibly rewarding cooking adventure. This Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly spectacular with your own hands, something that will fill your home with irresistible aromas and your loved ones with pure joy. There’s immense satisfaction in pulling a golden-brown, bubbling stromboli from the oven, knowing you made it yourself.

Once you’ve tried it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the classic, or did you put your own creative spin on it? Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your photos, and any unique variations you came up with in the comments below. Your feedback and personal touches inspire me and our entire community of food lovers. Let’s celebrate the joy of homemade goodness together!

Easy Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli

An easy, satisfying weeknight meal featuring the iconic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak wrapped in a golden-brown, cheesy baked stromboli. Made with thinly sliced beef, caramelized onions, green bell peppers, provolone, and mozzarella, it’s a versatile dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Prep Time
40 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
5 Minutes

Servings
6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb (approx. 450-500g) store-bought pizza dough, room temp
• 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for greasing
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tsp water
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional, for topping)
• 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt, to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, to taste
• 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
• 4 oz low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Cheez Whiz or cheese sauce, warmed (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Thinly slice onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms (if using). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown steak in 1 tbsp olive oil for 1-2 min per side; season, remove, and set aside.
2. Step 2
   In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms for 8-10 min until softened. Add garlic for 1 min, then stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Return steak to skillet and mix. Remove from heat.
3. Step 3
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking sheet or line with parchment paper. On a generously floured surface, roll pizza dough into a 12×16 inch rectangle, approximately 1/4-inch thick. Transfer dough to the prepared baking sheet.
4. Step 4
   Arrange half of the sliced/shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border clear around all edges. Spoon the prepared steak and veggie filling over the cheese layer, distributing it evenly. Top the filling with the remaining provolone and mozzarella.
5. Step 5
   Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough up tightly towards the opposite long side. Pinch the seam firmly together to seal completely. Pinch and tuck in the ends, sealing them well.
6. Step 6
   Whisk the egg and 1 tsp water for an egg wash; brush generously over the stromboli. Sprinkle with optional Italian seasoning. Make several 1-inch deep diagonal slits across the top. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until deep golden-brown and puffed.
7. Step 7
   Carefully remove from oven and let the stromboli rest on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice into 1.5 to 2-inch thick portions. Serve warm with marinara sauce or Cheez Whiz (if desired).
8. Step 8
   Store completely cooled leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best texture, reheat individual slices wrapped loosely in foil in a 325°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.