The Cheesesteak Egg Roll is a delightful fusion of the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak and the beloved crispy egg roll. Combining juicy steak, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy egg roll wrapper, this recipe creates an unforgettable appetizer or snack. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a fun dinner idea, or just craving a savory treat, cheesesteak egg rolls are perfect for satisfying those cravings. In this guide, we will show you how to prepare these delicious egg rolls with step-by-step instructions.
History of Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
The Philly Cheesesteak originated in the early 20th century and quickly became one of the most iconic sandwiches in American culinary history. Traditionally made with thinly sliced beef, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll, the cheesesteak has since been adapted in countless ways. The Cheesesteak Egg Roll is one such creative adaptation that takes the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and packages them in a crispy egg roll shell. This dish has become a favorite at parties, food trucks, and even high-end restaurants, where chefs enjoy experimenting with fusion cuisine.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of ribeye steak, cut very thinly (you can use another cut of steak if preferred)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced into small pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup of chopped mushrooms (optional)
- 6 slices of provolone cheese or 1 cup of shredded cheese (choose your preference)
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg for egg wash
- Olive oil for frying
How to Make Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
1. Prepare the Steak Filling
Begin by preparing the steak filling. Thinly slice the ribeye steak, or any other cut you have chosen. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced steak to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil if necessary. Toss in the diced green bell pepper, chopped onion, and mushrooms (if using). Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the vegetables are cooked, combine them with the cooked steak in a bowl and mix well.
3. Add the Cheese
To the steak and vegetable mixture, add either the six slices of provolone cheese or the shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the mixture and everything is well combined. The cheese should be gooey and help hold the filling together.
4. Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay out the egg roll wrappers on a clean surface. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the steak and cheese mixture onto the center of each wrapper. Be careful not to overfill the wrappers, as this will make them difficult to seal. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Brush the top corner with a bit of egg wash to seal the roll. Repeat this process until all 12 egg rolls are assembled.
5. Fry the Egg Rolls
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of olive oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each egg roll for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the egg rolls from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the egg rolls to cool slightly before serving. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mustard, or a garlic aioli. These crispy, cheesy, and savory egg rolls will be a hit at any gathering, or just as a snack for yourself!
Tips for Perfect Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Choose the Right Cheese: Provolone cheese is the most popular choice for cheesesteaks, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like American, cheddar, or even mozzarella for a unique twist.
Thinly Slice the Steak: For the best texture, slice your steak as thin as possible. If you have trouble cutting it, try partially freezing the steak before slicing.
Customize Your Filling: You can add or remove vegetables to your liking. Mushrooms add a nice earthy flavor, but you can also include other ingredients like jalapeños, spinach, or even sliced tomatoes for a more adventurous filling.
Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the egg rolls instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 12-15 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the egg rolls ahead of time and freeze them before frying. When you're ready to eat, fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Why Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Are a Must-Try
Cheesesteak egg rolls combine the best of two worlds: the rich, savory goodness of a Philly cheesesteak and the irresistible crunch of an egg roll. This recipe is a fun and flavorful twist on classic comfort food, making it perfect for gatherings, game days, or a quick weeknight snack. The beauty of these egg rolls lies in their versatility—you can customize the filling, change up the cheese, or even bake them for a lighter version.
If you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks, these egg rolls are a must-try. The crispy exterior, paired with the cheesy, savory filling, creates a perfect bite every time. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, cheesesteak egg rolls are guaranteed to impress!