Table of Contents
Looking for the perfect fusion of two beloved classics? These Philly cheesesteak egg rolls combine the savory goodness of a traditional Philly cheesesteak with the crispy, golden crunch of an egg roll. This crowd-pleasing appetizer brings together tender ribeye steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey provolone cheese, all wrapped in a crispy shell. Whether you’re hosting game day, planning a party, or just craving something extraordinary, these egg rolls deliver big flavor in every bite.
Key Ingredients
The magic of these Philly cheesesteak egg rolls lies in their authentic ingredients. Thinly sliced ribeye steak provides that classic Philly flavor, while the combination of green bell peppers and onions adds sweetness and texture. The provolone cheese melts beautifully, creating that signature cheesesteak experience. Each ingredient works together to capture the essence of Philadelphia’s famous sandwich in a portable, crispy package.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rib eye steak, cooked, chopped into small pieces | 2 lbs |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 Tbsp |
| Garlic salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | 1 tsp |
| Butter, divided | ¼ cup |
| Green bell peppers, chopped | 2 |
| Medium onion, chopped | 1 |
| Provolone cheese, diced | 10 pieces |
| Vegetable oil | 1-2 cups |
| Egg roll wrappers | 16 |
Helpful Tools
Having the right tools makes creating these Philly cheesesteak egg rolls much easier. A large cast iron skillet ensures even cooking of both the steak and vegetables, while a deep frying pan or Dutch oven provides the perfect environment for achieving that golden, crispy exterior. A reliable meat thermometer helps you cook the steak to perfection, and a pair of tongs makes handling the hot egg rolls safe and simple. Don’t forget a baking sheet lined with foil for finishing the steak in the oven.
Pro-Tips for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Creating restaurant-quality Philly cheesesteak egg rolls at home is easier than you might think. Here are five essential tips to ensure success every time:
- Slice the steak properly: For the most authentic texture, freeze the ribeye for about 30 minutes before slicing. This firms up the meat, making it easier to cut into thin, even pieces. Thin slices ensure the steak cooks quickly and evenly.
- Don’t overfill the wrappers: Using about two heaping tablespoons of filling per egg roll prevents them from bursting during frying. This measured approach ensures each roll seals properly and cooks evenly.
- Seal edges thoroughly: Moisten all edges of the wrapper with water and press firmly to seal. Any gaps can cause the filling to leak out during frying, creating a mess and potentially causing oil splatters.
- Maintain oil temperature: Keep your oil at a consistent 350°F throughout frying. Too hot, and the wrappers will burn before the filling heats through; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil and become greasy.
- Let them rest: After frying, place the egg rolls on a wire rack rather than paper towels. This prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy while they cool slightly before serving. Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks Delicious Meal offers another fantastic variation if you’re looking to experiment with different proteins.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
- Prepare and marinate the steak: Season the ribeye steaks with garlic salt and pepper, then place them in a large sealable baggie with Worcestershire sauce. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the meat with flavor.
- Cook the steak: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until melted. Remove the steaks from the baggie and cook for 4 minutes on each side until nicely seared. Transfer to a foil-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, turning halfway through. Let rest before chopping into small pieces.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, melt additional butter and sauté the chopped bell peppers and onions until the onions are translucent and the peppers have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine the filling: Cut the cooked steak into small pieces and add back to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Stir to combine, then add the diced provolone cheese and mix until the cheese begins to melt and everything is well incorporated.
- Assemble the egg rolls: Working with one egg roll wrapper at a time (positioned diagonally), moisten the edges with water. Place 2-3 heaping tablespoons of the steak mixture in the center. Fold the outer edges inward over the mixture, then fold the bottom edge up, and finally roll to seal completely. Repeat until all filling is used.
- Fry to golden perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan to 350°F. Carefully add 3-4 egg rolls at a time, frying until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove with tongs and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Continue until all egg rolls are cooked.
Delicious Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, experiment with these exciting variations of Philly cheesesteak egg rolls:
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for those who enjoy some heat. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of provolone for an extra spicy twist.
- Mushroom Lovers: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the filling for an earthy flavor that complements the steak perfectly. Portobello or cremini mushrooms work especially well.
- Sauce-Infused: Mix a tablespoon of cream cheese or your favorite cheese sauce into the filling for an extra creamy texture. You can also serve with various dipping sauces like cheese sauce, marinara, or a spicy aioli.
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are the ultimate fusion appetizer, combining the savory, cheesy goodness of a classic cheesesteak with the crispy crunch of an egg roll. Packed with tender shaved ribeye, caramelized onions, peppers, and melted provolone, they are perfect for game day or parties. Serve them with a creamy horseradish sauce for a spicy kick!
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients
— The Filling —
1 lb (450g) ribeye steak or sirloin, thinly shaved (partially freeze before slicing for easier cutting)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
1 large green bell pepper, finely diced
8 slices Provolone cheese (or mild white American cheese)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
— The Wrapper & Assembly —
12–15 egg roll wrappers
1 large egg, beaten (for sealing)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
— Creamy Horseradish Dip (Optional) —
½ cup sour cream (or mayonnaise)
1–2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon chopped chives
Instructions
1. **Prep the Meat:** Season the shaved steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. **Sauté:** Add the diced onion and green pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Push the veggies to one side of the pan.
3. **Cook Steak:** Add the shaved steak to the hot skillet. Sear quickly, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned (about 2–3 minutes).
4. **Combine & Cheésify:** Mix the veggies and steak together. Drizzle with Worcestershire sauce. Turn off the heat. Lay the cheese slices over the hot mixture and let them melt slightly, then stir everything together so the cheese coats the meat. Transfer mixture to a bowl and let it **cool completely** (this prevents soggy wrappers).
5. **Assemble:** Lay an egg roll wrapper flat with a corner pointing toward you (diamond shape). Place about 2–3 tablespoons of the cooled filling in the center.
6. **Roll:** Fold the bottom corner up over the filling. Fold the left and right corners in toward the center. Roll tightly upward. Brush the top corner with the beaten egg to seal the roll shut.
7. **Fry:** Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a dutch oven or deep pan to 375°F (190°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
8. **Drain & Serve:** Remove from oil and drain on a wire rack. Serve warm with the creamy horseradish dip.
Notes
Steak Tip: Ribeye is traditional for flavor, but flank steak or sirloin works well too. You can also use high-quality roast beef from the deli counter for a shortcut.
Air Fryer Method: Spray the assembled egg rolls generously with cooking oil spray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and blistered.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the egg rolls and freeze them uncooked. Fry them directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cook time.
Cheese Variations: Provolone provides that classic sharp melt, but Cheez Whiz or White American cheese will give you a creamier, gooier texture.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Deep Fry
- Cuisine: American Fusion
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Philly cheesesteak egg rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the egg rolls up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. For longer storage, freeze the assembled but uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Fry directly from frozen, adding about 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover egg rolls?
To maintain crispiness, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will make the wrapper soggy. These egg rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but proper reheating can restore much of their original texture.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a healthier option, brush the assembled egg rolls with oil and bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. While they won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version, they’re still delicious and much lighter.
Conclusion
These Philly cheesesteak egg rolls bring together the best of both worlds – the hearty, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak wrapped in a crispy, golden shell.
They’re perfect for parties, game days, or whenever you’re craving something special. The combination of tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables creates an irresistible filling that’s sure to impress. For more delicious ideas, follow me on Pinterest