There’s something magical about savoring a warm, hearty soup on a chilly evening. That cozy feeling comes alive in this Philly Cheesesteak Soup, where the rich flavors of savory beef, tender sautéed vegetables, and gooey cheese come together in one comforting bowl. Not only is this recipe easy to whip up, but it also serves as a delightful low-carb alternative to the classic sandwich, making it perfect for those looking to indulge without the carbs. As you stir in the melted cheeses and watch the pot bubble, you’ll find yourself lost in a wave of nostalgia, celebrating the beloved Philly cheesesteak in a whole new way. Curious how this quick recipe can transform a simple weeknight dinner into a warm family favorite? Let’s dive in!

Why is Philly Cheesesteak Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: This soup captures the essence of a classic Philly cheesesteak, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table.

Hearty Ingredients: Packed with tender beef and colorful vegetables, every spoonful is satisfying and rich in flavor.

Simplified Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can have this cozy dish ready in no time—even on busy weeknights!

Low-Carb Delight: For those watching their carbs, this recipe offers a delicious low-carb alternative without sacrificing taste, making it a perfect fit for various dietary needs.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Philly Cheesesteak Soup is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more! Check out my Gouda Broccoli Soup for another tasty option to warm up your evenings!

Philly Cheesesteak Soup Ingredients

Who’s ready to dig into some amazing flavors?

For the Soup Base

Olive Oil – Provides fat for sautéing; vegetable oil can be used as a substitute if needed.
Onion (1 large, chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow onions work best for a milder taste.
Green Bell Pepper (1, chopped) – Offers a crunchy texture; other colored peppers can add extra sweetness.
Red Bell Pepper (1, chopped) – Brings vibrant color and a touch of sweetness.
Sirloin Steak (1 pound, thinly sliced against the grain) – The protein powerhouse of the dish; ribeye or flank steak can also be fantastic substitutes.
Beef Broth (8 cups) – Forms the flavorful base; low-sodium broth is recommended for better salt control.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces, undrained) – Adds acidity and bulk; feel free to use fresh tomatoes if they’re in season.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 teaspoon) – Infuses the soup with delicious umami notes.
Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon) – A must for added flavor; Italian seasoning could be a nice alternative.
Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional) – Perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick; adjust according to your preference.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; taste and adjust as desired.

For the Cheese Sauce

Butter (4 tablespoons) – Used to create a roux for thickening the cheese sauce.
Flour (4 tablespoons) – Thickens the cheese sauce; swapping with gluten-free flour works great too!
Milk (3 cups) – Provides creaminess; you can use plant-based milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened) – Adds richness to the texture.
Provolone Cheese (8 ounces, shredded) – The classic cheese for authentic flavor; cheddar can be used for a twist.
Mozzarella Cheese (4 ounces, shredded) – Optional, but it creates an even creamier consistency.
Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon) – Boosts the aroma and flavor profile.
Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon) – Complements and enhances the onion essence in the soup.

For Garnishing

Chopped Fresh Parsley – Provides a pop of freshness and color on top.
Crusty Rolls – Essential for dipping, adding a traditional touch to your meal.

Dive right into this Philly Cheesesteak Soup, and savor every flavorful bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper, sautéing for 8-10 minutes until they soften and become slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to build a flavorful base for your Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

Step 2: Brown the Steak
Increase the heat to medium-high, adding the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the beef is browned but not overcrowded in the pan. This step is crucial for locking in the juices and flavor that will enrich your soup.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in 8 cups of beef broth and add 1 can of undrained diced tomatoes, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance the soup’s flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for 30 minutes. This simmering process allows all the ingredients in the Philly Cheesesteak Soup to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Season the Soup
Stir in 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using) into the soup. Taste and adjust salt and black pepper to your preference, letting it simmer for a few more minutes to marry the flavors. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. This roux will help thicken the cheese sauce used in the Philly Cheesesteak Soup, giving it a creamy texture.

Step 6: Make It Creamy
Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk into the roux, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Lower the heat further and gently stir in 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 8 ounces of shredded provolone cheese until completely melted and creamy. This cheesy goodness is what makes your Philly Cheesesteak Soup extra special!

Step 7: Combine the Mixtures
Carefully pour the creamy cheese sauce into the pot with the soup base, stirring to combine until fully integrated. Heat through on low for an additional 5 minutes without boiling, ensuring everything is warmed and creamy. The richness of the cheese will elevate your Philly Cheesesteak Soup into a comforting delight.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
If the soup is too thick, add additional beef broth to reach your desired consistency. Ladle the hearty Philly Cheesesteak Soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and extra shredded cheese if desired. Serve with crusty rolls on the side for dipping into this comforting and delicious dish!

Make Ahead Options

Philly Cheesesteak Soup is an ideal choice for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal prep! You can prepare the soup base up to 3 days in advance; just sauté the vegetables and beef, then add the broth and tomatoes. Refrigerate the mixture and reheat it on the stove, adding the cheese sauce just before serving to maintain its creamy texture. If you want to prep even further, the cheese sauce can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply heat everything together, and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Slice Against the Grain: Ensure steak is sliced thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness and enhance the texture of your Philly Cheesesteak Soup.
Don’t Rush Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing vegetables; this step develops rich flavors that elevate the overall taste of the soup.
Choose Quality Broth: Opt for a high-quality beef broth, preferably low-sodium, to control salt levels and achieve a luscious base for your soup.
Avoid Boiling After Cheese: After adding the cheese sauce, keep the heat low to prevent the cheese from separating; simmer gently for a creamy finish.
Customize and Experiment: Feel free to customize your Philly Cheesesteak Soup by adjusting cheese varieties or spice levels to suit your preferences!

How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigeration to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy this soup later, freeze it for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick.

Quality Check: Always check for freshness before consuming; if it smells off or changes texture, it’s best to discard it.

What to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Transform your cozy bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Soup into a delightful complete meal with these tasty companions.

Crusty Bread: A classic choice, perfect for dipping. The chewy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: These buttery, cheesy sticks add a flavorful, enticing crunch that pairs perfectly with your soup. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven!
Simple Side Salad: A garden-fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing brightness to balance the hearty soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Smoky, caramelized veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring depth and texture, complementing the rich flavors of the soup.
Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky biscuits bursting with cheese make for a delightful addition, inviting more gooey goodness alongside your soup.
Pickles or Pepperoncini: The tangy crunch cuts through the richness of the soup, offering an exciting contrast that elevates every bite.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their slight sweetness and crispy texture create a lovely balance to the savory and creamy aspects of the soup.
Red Wine: A glass of smooth red enhances the meal further, with its rich undertones echoing the hearty flavors of the soup.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these classic treats provide a sweet finishing touch to your comforting meal experience.

Get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience by combining these delicious options with your Philly Cheesesteak Soup!

Philly Cheesesteak Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your perfect bowl of blissful Philly Cheesesteak Soup!

Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the rich broth beautifully. The combination of beef and mushrooms is a classic that never fails to impress.
Spicy Twist: Increase the heat by mixing in more red pepper flakes or adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce. This will awaken your taste buds and add a delightful kick to each spoonful.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese brings its distinctive character, making your cozy soup even more dynamic.
Veggie Boost: Toss in extra veggies like spinach or zucchini for additional color and nutrients. Not only will this elevate the taste, but it will also add a wholesome touch to your comfort food.
Creamy Vegan Option: Substitute the traditional dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives—use cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a nutty, cheesy flavor that doesn’t skimp on richness.
Bacon Lovers: Crumble crispy bacon over the top for a smoky crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy soup. It’s the perfect addition for meat lovers seeking an indulgent finish.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use gluten-free flour for the roux and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy goodness without compromise.
Simple Garnish Upgrade: Instead of chopped parsley, top your soup with diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy, fresh finish that highlights the flavors beautifully.

These variations are just the beginning! You might also enjoy diving into other comforting recipes like my Gouda Broccoli Soup or an easy Pot Lasagna Soup for more cozy meal inspiration!

Philly Cheesesteak Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for my Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, look for high-quality sirloin steak that is bright red in color and free of dark spots, indicating freshness. For veggies, opt for firm bell peppers that have a vibrant sheen. Fresh herbs and spices can make a noticeable difference in flavor, so using dried thyme that isn’t past its expiration will yield the best results.

How should I store leftover Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Very! You can store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it to help retain its creamy texture. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it to enjoy at a later date.

Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and then gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth or milk if needed to bring back its creamy consistency.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?
Very! If your Philly Cheesesteak Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply stir in additional beef broth, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Gently warm through on low heat to ensure the cheese sauce and broth meld together beautifully without boiling, which can affect the creaminess.

Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Absolutely! This Philly Cheesesteak Soup can be modified to suit various dietary needs. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour in the cheese sauce. For a lower-carb dish, you can skip the crusty rolls and perhaps add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Always consider checking for allergies related to the cheeses or any other ingredients you might use.

Can I customize the cheeses in this recipe?
Very! There are many delightful cheese options to explore. While provolone is traditional, feel free to mix in some sharp cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor. The more, the merrier! Cheese blends will personalize your Philly Cheesesteak Soup experience, giving it a unique twist that suits your taste buds perfectly.