Intro: Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls bring together the flavors of the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak sandwich with the crispy, savory texture of classic egg rolls. This fusion recipe is perfect for those who love bold flavors and crave something unique for their next appetizer or snack. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging yourself, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit.
Why Choose Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls?
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are not only delicious but also unique. This recipe combines tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers inside a crispy egg roll shell. It’s a great alternative to traditional cheesesteak sandwiches and adds a fun twist to your menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, gather these ingredients:
- 1 lb of ribeye steak or ground beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (Provolone or American cheese works best)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional, for added flavor and color)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 package of egg roll wrappers
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (for frying the filling)
- Oil for deep frying (about 2-3 cups)
- Dipping sauce: Optional (try a creamy horseradish or garlic aioli for extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Slice or chop the ribeye steak (or ground beef) into very small pieces. If using ribeye steak, ensure the pieces are thin, as it helps with even cooking.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the beef until browned, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using).
- Cook until the onions are translucent and the peppers have softened, which takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix the cooked vegetables with the beef. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, as this will make it easier to handle while wrapping the egg rolls.
Step 3: Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Lay out one egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with a corner pointed toward you (like a diamond shape).
- Place about 2 tablespoons of the meat and vegetable mixture on the wrapper near the center.
- Add about a tablespoon of shredded cheese on top of the filling.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold the two side corners toward the center. Roll the wrapper tightly up, sealing the top corner with a bit of water.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 4: Fry the Egg Rolls
- Heat the oil for frying in a deep skillet or pot to around 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough so the egg rolls sizzle immediately when added but not smoking.
- Carefully place a few egg rolls into the oil, making sure not to crowd the pan.
- Fry for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls hot with your choice of dipping sauce. They pair wonderfully with a creamy horseradish sauce, ranch, or even spicy ketchup.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
- Choose the Right Cheese: Provolone or American cheese is ideal for this recipe as it melts well and complements the beef without overpowering it.
- Avoid Overfilling: Adding too much filling makes the egg rolls harder to wrap and can cause them to burst during frying.
- Freeze for Later: Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls can be made in advance and frozen. Place uncooked rolls on a tray and freeze. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry them from frozen—just add a minute or two to the frying time.
Variations
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are customizable. Here are some ideas to make this recipe your own:
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy version.
- Mushroom Lover’s Edition: Sauté mushrooms with the onions and peppers to add a deeper, earthy flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: For a healthier twist, skip the egg roll wrapper and serve the filling in lettuce cups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying them?
A: Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush them with a bit of oil. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Q: Can I use another type of meat?
A: Absolutely! While ribeye is traditional, ground beef or even shredded chicken works well. You could also use thinly sliced pork or lamb for a different flavor profile.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: The best way to reheat Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls is in an air fryer or oven. This helps maintain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the egg rolls soggy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are the ultimate fusion of flavors, combining the cheesy, savory essence of a Philly cheesesteak with the crunchy exterior of an egg roll. They’re easy to make, versatile, and sure to impress at any gathering. Try this recipe for your next get-together or family dinner, and watch how quickly they disappear!