Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cook the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced steak with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Add the steak to the hot pot in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until browned, but still slightly pink in the center. Remove the cooked steak from the pot and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables and Build Roux
- Reduce heat to medium. Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Add the sliced yellow onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pot. Add the butter to the empty side and let it melt. Once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, cooking out the raw flour taste.
Simmer the Soup
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, a cup at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Uncover the pot. Add the softened cream cheese cubes and shredded provolone cheese to the soup. Stir continuously until both cheeses are completely melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, creamy base.
- Stir in the whole milk or half-and-half. Return the cooked steak to the pot and stir to combine. Heat through for 2-3 minutes, but do not boil after adding the milk and cheese.
Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the hot Philly Cheesesteak Soup into bowls. Garnish with additional shredded provolone cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices or crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. To make slicing the steak easier, freeze it for 20-30 minutes beforehand. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent cheese from separating.
