10 BEST Seasonings for Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches

Few sandwiches are as iconic and mouthwatering as the Philly Cheese Steak.

This delicious creation, hailing from the city of brotherly love, consists of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a variety of toppings, all nestled between two slices of soft, crusty bread.

The magic of a Philly Cheese Steak lies not only in its tender meat and gooey cheese but also in the symphony of flavors brought together by the right blend of seasonings.

But which seasonings are the secret to a truly unforgettable Philly Cheese Steak?

The best seasonings for a Philly Cheese Steak sandwich include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, and thyme.

These seasonings work together to enhance the flavor of the meat and complement the other ingredients in the sandwich.

Whether you’re a Philly native or just a fan of this delectable sandwich, these seasonings will take your homemade Philly Cheese Steak to new culinary heights.

Let’s dive in and explore the flavor profiles of these essential seasonings and how they contribute to creating the perfect Philly Cheese Steak experience!

Read Also: The 10 Best Onions for Sandwiches

Why Consider Seasoning A Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich?

Seasoning a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich is important for several reasons:

1. Enhances flavor: Seasoning adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the sandwich. It can make the meat taste more savory, smoky, or spicy, depending on the seasoning used.
2. Balances flavors: Seasoning can help balance the flavors of the sandwich. For example, if the cheese is too sharp, a milder seasoning can help balance it out.
3. Adds aroma: Seasoning can add a pleasant aroma to the sandwich, making it more appetizing and enjoyable to eat.
4. Customization: Seasoning allows for customization of the sandwich to individual tastes. Some people prefer spicier sandwiches, while others prefer milder flavors.
5. Tradition: Finally, seasoning is an important part of the tradition of making a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. Many recipes call for specific seasonings, such as garlic or green onions, which have become integral to the dish over time.

10 BEST Seasonings for Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches

Philly cheese steak sandwiches are a delicious treat, but they can be even better with the right seasonings.

To help you take your Philly cheese steak sandwich from good to great, here are ten of the best seasonings for this tasty meal:

1. Salt

Salt is a fundamental seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients in a Philly cheesesteak sandwich.

It is essential to season the thinly sliced steak with a moderate amount of salt while cooking it in a hot skillet or on a griddle.

The salt will not only bring out the beef’s savoriness but also help to create a beautiful crust on the exterior.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider using sea salt or kosher salt instead of regular table salt.

Remember to use salt sparingly, as it is easy to over-season, and you can always add more later if desired.

2. Pepper

Pepper is another important seasoning that adds depth and warmth to a Philly cheesesteak sandwich.

Freshly cracked black pepper is the most commonly used type, offering a robust and slightly spicy flavor to the dish.

For added complexity, you can also experiment with different varieties of pepper, such as white, green, or pink peppercorns.

Pepper should be added to taste, keeping in mind that a little goes a long way, and too much can overpower the other flavors in the sandwich.

3. Garlic Powder

Garlic powder is an excellent seasoning to intensify the flavor of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich.

It imparts a savory, slightly sweet taste that complements the beef and other ingredients in the sandwich.

Use garlic powder sparingly, as too much can be overpowering.

Sprinkle it on the steak while cooking, or mix it into the cheese sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

For a more pronounced garlic taste, consider using fresh minced garlic instead.

4. Onion Powder

Onion powder is another seasoning that adds depth and a subtle sweetness to a Philly cheesesteak sandwich.

It is a versatile ingredient that can be used to season the steak, sautéed onions, or mixed into the cheese sauce.

Onion powder should be used sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors in the sandwich.

For a more intense onion flavor, consider using fresh chopped onions instead, sautéing them with the steak until they are soft and caramelized.

5. Worcestershire Sauce

Worcestershire sauce is a flavorful and tangy addition to a Philly cheesesteak sandwich that can elevate the dish to new heights.

This savory sauce is made from fermented ingredients such as vinegar, molasses, and anchovies, which add a complex depth of flavor to the sandwich.

A few dashes of Worcestershire sauce can be added to the steak during cooking, or it can be mixed into the cheese sauce for a unique twist.

Its umami-rich taste brings out the best in the steak, tying together all the flavors in the sandwich for a truly memorable dining experience.

6. Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika is a popular spice derived from dried and smoked red peppers.

It adds a smoky, earthy flavor to dishes and is perfect for enhancing the taste of Philly Cheese Steak sandwiches.

Unlike regular paprika, smoked paprika has a deeper, more robust flavor that works well with the savory beef and cheese combination.

When using smoked paprika, a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste as needed.

Its rich and smoky flavor will elevate your sandwich to new levels, making it a mouthwatering treat that is hard to resist.

7. Italian Seasoning

Italian seasoning is a versatile blend of herbs that includes basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram.

This aromatic mix is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your Philly Cheese Steak sandwich, as it pairs well with the meat, cheese, and vegetables.

The combination of herbs in Italian seasoning complements the sandwich’s components, enhancing their natural flavors without overpowering them.

Sprinkle a small amount of Italian seasoning on the beef while it cooks or mix it with the sautéed onions and peppers for an extra layer of flavor.

8. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

Crushed red pepper flakes are a fantastic way to add a touch of heat to your Philly Cheese Steak sandwich.

These small but mighty flakes pack a punch and can quickly elevate the flavor profile of your sandwich.

Start with a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes, and adjust according to your preferred spice level.

Try adding the flakes to your sautéed onions and peppers or directly onto the sandwich for an extra kick that will make your taste buds dance.

9. Oregano

Oregano is a classic herb that adds a warm, earthy flavor to dishes, making it an excellent addition to a Philly Cheese Steak sandwich.

Its slightly bitter and pungent taste complements the rich, savory flavors of the beef and cheese.

Sprinkle a small amount of dried oregano on your sandwich or add it to the cooking process for a subtle but noticeable flavor enhancement.

Using fresh oregano leaves can also provide a more robust flavor and an appealing visual element to your sandwich.

10. Thyme

Thyme is an aromatic herb with a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs well with the bold tastes of a Philly Cheese Steak sandwich.

Its slightly minty and lemony undertones can add an extra layer of complexity to the beef, cheese, and vegetables.

Incorporate dried or fresh thyme into your sandwich by adding it to the beef while it cooks or sprinkling it on top of the finished sandwich for a subtle flavor boost.

Experiment with different combinations of these seasonings to find your perfect Philly Cheese Steak sandwich flavor profile.

FAQs

What gives Philly cheesesteak its flavor?

The flavor of a Philly Cheesesteak comes from the combination of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, sautéed onions, and the seasoning used. Typically, the seasoning consists of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, but some recipes may use other spices like paprika or cayenne pepper. (source: Allrecipes)

What is Philly steak seasoning made of?

Philly steak seasoning is typically made of a combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Some recipes may also include cayenne pepper, oregano, or thyme.

What condiments go on a steak and cheese sandwich?

The condiments that go on a steak and cheese sandwich can vary depending on personal preference, but some common options include ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, hot sauce, or barbecue sauce. Some people also add lettuce, tomato, or pickles.

What comes on an original Philly steak and cheese?

An original Philly steak and cheese typically consists of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese (usually American, provolone, or Cheez Whiz), and sautéed onions. It is served on a hoagie roll, which is a long, soft roll that is slightly crispy on the outside.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many different seasonings that can be used to enhance the flavor of a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich.

From classic combinations like salt, pepper, and garlic powder to more unique blends like Cajun seasoning or Montreal steak seasoning, there is no shortage of options to choose from.

Ultimately, the best seasoning for a Philly Cheesesteak will depend on personal taste preferences and the specific recipe being used.

Whether you prefer a mild or spicy sandwich, there is a seasoning out there that can take your Philly Cheesesteak to the next level.