There's something inherently satisfying about recreating your favorite restaurant meals at home. If you're yearning to find out how to cook cheesesteak on griddle, you've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of crafting the perfect cheesesteak on a griddle, from selecting the best ingredients to mastering cooking techniques, and even garnishing your creation.
What is a Cheesesteak?
Before we dive into how to cook cheesesteak on griddle, lets first understand what a cheesesteak actually is. Originating from Philadelphia, the cheesesteak is a hot sandwich made with thinly sliced beef, served in a long roll, typically topped with melted cheese, and sometimes sauted onions, mushrooms, or peppers. This dynamic sandwich is beloved for its juicy meat and the rich, melty cheese that combines to create unforgettable bite after bite.
Why Cook Cheesesteak on a Griddle?
Cooking a cheesesteak on a griddle can bring a new level of flavor and enjoyment to your homemade version. Whether you use an electric griddle or stovetop version, the griddles evenly distributed heat helps to create that delicious caramelization on your beef slices while melting the cheese to a gooey perfection. Moreover, griddles offer ample cooking surface, making it easier to manage all your ingredients simultaneously.
Ingredients and Preparation
- 1 lb Ribeye Steak (thinly sliced)
- 4 Hoagie Rolls
- 1 Large Onion (sliced)
- 1 Green Bell Pepper (sliced)
- 8-12 slices of Provolone Cheese
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Selecting Your Steak
The star of the cheesesteak is, undoubtedly, the steak. Ribeye is highly recommended due to its marbling, which translates into tenderness and flavor. If you're on a budget, feel free to use another cut of beef, but ensure its adequately marbled and tender. For the smoothest cooking experience on the griddle, you'll want to slice your steak thinly. Some butchers will do this for you upon request, but if not, partially freezing the steak before cutting can make the process significantly easier.
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread should ideally be a hoagie roll something sturdy enough to hold all the juicy goodness of the filling without disintegrating. Freshness is key, but if you can't get your hands on these, a sturdy French roll can act as a suitable substitute.
Cheese Options
Provolone cheese is the classic choice for cheesesteaks, but don't shy away from something like American cheese or even a classic Cheez Whiz if you prefer a more traditional Philadelphia experience. The goal is to use a cheese that melts well to coat the beef slices thoroughly.
Recommended Cookware
To cook the perfect cheesesteak, youll require certain essential kitchen tools. An high-quality Electric griddle comes in handy for a consistently heated cooking surface. Also, make sure you have a reliable set of knives, such as this Knife set, to make slicing through your steak efficiently.
Step-By-Step Guide to Cooking Cheesesteak on a Griddle
Step 1: Preheat Your Griddle
Start by preheating your griddle to about 350F. Ensuring your griddle is hot enough will allow for a quick sear on your steak slices, locking in their succulent flavors. As your griddle heats up, you can proceed to prepare the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Sauting the Vegetables
Adding vegetables to your cheesesteak can enhance its flavor profile and add a touch of healthiness to this indulgent meal. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the griddle and let it heat until it shimmers. Next, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Saut for approximately 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cooking the Steak
Once your vegetables are done, it's time to cook the steak. Drizzle another tablespoon of oil onto the griddle. Quickly add the thinly sliced steak, spreading it out in a single layer if possible for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip. Add the sauted vegetables back to the griddle and mix well. Once the steak appears browned on both sides and is cooked to your liking, reduce the heat slightly.
Step 4: Adding the Cheese
While the steak and vegetables meld together, it's time for the cheese. Lay the slices of Provolone directly on top of the beef and vegetable mixture. Covering with a lid or even an inverted pan can help the cheese to melt faster and more evenly. Allow the mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has thoroughly melted, enveloping the steak and veggies.
Step 5: Toasting the Hoagie Rolls
No cheesesteak is complete without a perfectly toasted hoagie roll. Cut your hoagie rolls lengthwise but leave one side attached to hold the fillings more effectively. Place the rolls cut-side down on the griddle for about 1-2 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and crispy.
Assembling and Serving
With all parts of your cheesesteak ready, all that's left is assembling. Using a spatula, scoop a generous portion of the steak, vegetable, and cheese mixture and place it inside a toasted hoagie roll. Press down gently to mix the ingredients.
Garnish and Sides
While traditional cheesesteaks don't usually have garnishes, adding a few fresh ingredients can elevate your meal. Fresh arugula, tomatoes, or even a homemade aioli spread can add a new dimension of flavor. As a side, consider adding homemade French fries, a light salad, or even a simple side of pickles.
Enjoy Your Cheesesteak
There you have it a perfectly cooked, flavorful, and juicy cheesesteak ready to be devoured. If you find yourself enjoying this griddle experience, don't hesitate to explore other delicious recipes such as griddled chicken breast or learn more kitchen appliance tips!
Cleaning Up
Before you wrap up your cooking session, don't forget to clean your griddle to maintain its longevity. Use a quality cookware cleaner to ensure theres no grease or food residue left behind. Proper maintenance helps keep your cookware in top condition for your next culinary adventure.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.