There’s something deeply comforting about taking a beloved sandwich and transforming it into a bowl of creamy, savory warmth. Philly Cheesesteak Soup is exactly that — a hearty, soul-soothing meal that captures all the flavor of the iconic sandwich while offering the coziness of a homemade soup. Loaded with tender beef, sautéed peppers, melted provolone, and buttery croutons, this recipe is the ultimate cold-weather indulgence. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or craving a creative twist on a classic, this soup deserves a spot on your regular rotation.
Let’s dive into the rich, velvety experience of this Philly Cheesesteak Soup — a comfort food lover’s dream.
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Philly Cheesesteak Soup: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A creamy, cheesy, and hearty Philly Cheesesteak Soup that transforms the beloved sandwich into a comforting bowl. With tender beef, sautéed peppers, and buttery homemade croutons, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 pound thinly sliced beef steak or top round
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium carrot, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce
Salt and black pepper, to taste
6 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces white cheddar cheese, shredded
8 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Croutons:
½ baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
¼ cup olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced green pepper and cook for about 2 minutes until slightly softened. Add the beef and cook quickly, stirring occasionally, until just browned. Transfer the beef and peppers to a plate and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onion looks translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well. Add the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring to keep the soup smooth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the vegetables are very tender.
5. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or carefully transfer to a blender in batches. Return the soup to the pot if needed.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar, and provolone. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Add half of the cooked beef and peppers, then remove from heat.
7. For the croutons, preheat the oven to 400°F. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, until golden and crisp.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with the remaining beef and peppers, sprinkle with parsley, and finish with a handful of homemade croutons. Serve warm.
Notes
To lighten the soup, substitute half of the cream with milk or use cream cheese for a tangier taste. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour and gluten-free bread for the croutons.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Bringing the Iconic Philly Cheesesteak to Soup Form
There’s no denying the cultural pull of the Philly cheesesteak. It’s fast, flavorful, and packed with juicy meat and melty cheese. But turn it into a soup? That’s where the magic happens.
The Origins of Philly Cheesesteak Soup
Inspired by the East Coast’s most famous sandwich, Philly Cheesesteak Soup brings together the core elements — seared steak, sautéed green peppers, and lots of cheese — into a luxurious bowl. This dish first gained popularity among home cooks looking for a creative way to use beef in winter recipes. Over time, it’s evolved into a comfort classic, loved for its nostalgic flavor and heartwarming depth.
Why This Soup Hits Every Comfort Food Craving
There’s a reason this dish feels like a hug in a bowl. It combines the rich umami of beef broth and sautéed steak with velvety heavy cream and sharp cheddar. Add a buttery homemade crouton topping, and every spoonful becomes an explosion of textures and flavors. It’s creamy, cheesy, and completely satisfying — no sandwich bun required.
How Philly Cheesesteak Soup Became a Fall Favorite
While this soup is delicious year-round, there’s something about the colder months that makes it truly shine. Much like this creamy garlic chicken and potato soup, it’s perfect for chilly nights, game day gatherings, or even a holiday starter. Once you serve it once, it’s bound to become a seasonal staple in your kitchen.
Key Ingredients That Deliver the Cheesesteak Flavor
What sets this soup apart is its commitment to flavor. Every ingredient is chosen to mimic and elevate the cheesesteak experience, right down to the golden baguette croutons on top.
Choosing the Right Beef for Philly Cheesesteak Soup
For that authentic cheesesteak feel, thinly sliced beef steak or top round is ideal. These cuts cook quickly and stay tender in the soup. If you’re looking for a shortcut or want a budget-friendly swap, Philly Cheesesteak Soup with ground beef is a popular variation that still delivers big flavor.
The Role of Bell Peppers, Onions, and Cheddar
Green bell peppers lend a slightly sweet bitterness that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Onions and carrots bring natural sweetness, while celery adds earthiness. And the cheeses — white cheddar and provolone — melt into a silky, savory blend that defines the final flavor.
Cream and Cheese: Creating a Rich, Silky Texture
Heavy cream provides body, while the combination of shredded cheddar and provolone guarantees that unmistakable cheesesteak creaminess. You can also experiment with variations like Philly Cheesesteak Soup with cream cheese if you’re craving a slightly tangier version. Either way, the texture is pure velvet.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Turning simple ingredients into a complex, restaurant-worthy soup is easier than you think. It all comes down to layering flavor at every stage.
Sautéing Beef and Vegetables to Build Flavor
Start by searing the beef and green peppers in hot olive oil — this is where those bold, savory aromas begin. After setting the beef aside, the same pot is used to sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they’re beautifully soft and fragrant. Stir in garlic, then sprinkle flour over the mix to create a roux that will thicken the soup naturally.
Blending the Base for the Perfect Creamy Texture
After simmering the vegetables with beef broth, blending the mixture ensures a smooth base that carries the richness of every ingredient. An immersion blender works wonders here, but a regular blender will do the trick if you’re careful with hot liquids. Once silky, the soup becomes a creamy blank canvas ready for cheese and cream.
Melting Cheese for That Signature Philly Flavor
With the heat lowered, heavy cream, cheddar, and provolone are added gradually to the blended base. As the cheeses melt, the soup transforms into a thick, velvety bowl of comfort. Add back some of the seared beef and peppers for texture and visual contrast — it’s a finishing touch that balances smoothness with bite.
Elevating the Soup with Homemade Croutons
Don’t underestimate the power of toppings. In this soup, buttery croutons mimic the crispy exterior of a cheesesteak roll — and they might just be your favorite part.
How to Make Golden, Crispy Baguette Croutons
Slice a baguette into cubes, toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then bake at 400°F until golden brown. They’re crunchy on the outside, slightly chewy on the inside, and perfect for soaking up the creamy broth without going soggy.
Why Croutons Matter in Philly Cheesesteak Soup
The croutons are more than a garnish — they’re a nod to the sandwich’s bread component. They give you that expected cheesesteak crunch and texture contrast, especially when the rest of the bowl is so rich and creamy.
Creative Topping Ideas Beyond the Croutons
Want to mix it up? Try adding pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of crispy onions for crunch. A dash of paprika or a few bacon bits can also take this soup to new heights, just like we see in this flavorful buffalo chicken soup variation.
Variations and Customizations
Philly Cheesesteak Soup is endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re trying to lighten it up or work with what’s already in your fridge, there’s a version for everyone.
Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Ground Beef
If thinly sliced steak isn’t your style or is hard to find, ground beef is a fantastic alternative. It cooks faster and gives the soup a more rustic, chili-like texture. Just brown it thoroughly, drain excess fat, and stir it in as you would with the seared steak.
Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Cream Cheese
For a tangier, thicker twist, swap out half the heavy cream with softened cream cheese. It melts down into the soup beautifully and gives an extra richness that’s especially welcome if you like your soups extra indulgent.
Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Alternatives
To cut carbs, skip the croutons and thicken the soup with cornstarch instead of flour. Want to go gluten-free? Choose gluten-free baguette for the croutons and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce and broth are certified safe.
Make-Ahead, Storing, and Reheating Tips
Soups are made for batch cooking, and this one holds up well for days — if it lasts that long.
Best Ways to Store Leftovers
Store any extra soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the croutons in a separate container at room temperature so they stay crisp.
How to Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup
To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store in freezer-safe bags or containers. Note that cream-based soups can separate a little when thawed, but gentle reheating while stirring usually brings them back to life.
Reheating Without Losing Creaminess
Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling, which can cause the cheese to break or become gritty. A splash of extra cream or broth helps revive the consistency perfectly.
FAQ: Philly Cheesesteak Soup
Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Soup with ground beef?
Yes! Ground beef is a popular and delicious alternative that gives the soup a heartier texture while still keeping the flavor profile of a classic cheesesteak.
How do I substitute cream cheese in Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
To add cream cheese, replace half the heavy cream with about 4 ounces of softened cream cheese. Stir it in after blending the soup to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
What cheese melts best in this soup?
Provolone and white cheddar are ideal for their creamy melt and mild sharpness, but feel free to experiment with gouda or mozzarella if you want a twist.
Can I use a slow cooker instead of stovetop?
Absolutely. Brown your meat and veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 4–6 hours before blending and finishing with cream and cheese.
Conclusion: A Comfort Classic with a Cheesesteak Twist
Philly Cheesesteak Soup is a cozy, flavorful twist on a legendary sandwich. It brings everything we love — tender beef, melted cheese, buttery bread — into a single spoonful. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, prepping for the week ahead, or serving a crowd, this soup delivers on flavor, nostalgia, and comfort.
For more satisfying bowl-based meals, check out our favorite creamy soups like Creamy Garlic Chicken and Potato Soup or dive into the heat with Creamy Buffalo Chicken Soup. One thing’s for sure: this Philly-inspired bowl is a guaranteed repeat on any comfort food menu.
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