Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning Guide

Philly cheesesteaks are more than just a sandwich—they’re a vibe. If you’ve ever sunk your teeth into one, you know that it’s not just about the meat or the bread. Nope, the real magic lies in the seasoning. But what exactly is Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning, and how can you nail it at home? Stick around, because we’re diving into everything you need to make a cheesesteak so good, it might just rival your favorite corner spot in Philly.

What is Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning?

Philly cheesesteak seasoning blend in a small bowl with raw steak slices and fresh garlic in the background.

Philly cheesesteak seasoning is the flavor-packed blend of spices that gives this iconic sandwich its signature taste. It typically includes salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Some recipes kick it up a notch with a touch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for heat, while others add dried herbs like oregano or thyme for a savory depth.

The beauty of this seasoning is that it complements the natural richness of the beef, the gooey cheese, and the soft hoagie roll without overpowering them.

The Secret Ingredient in Philly Cheesesteak

Let’s be real—every great dish has a little secret sauce. For Philly cheesesteaks, many cooks swear by adding Worcestershire sauce during the cooking process to complement the Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning perfectly. It brings a subtle umami kick that makes the flavors pop.

Another secret? The onions. Properly caramelized onions add sweetness and balance to the savory beef and seasoning. Take your time with them—low and slow is the way to go. For more inspiration on using caramelized onions in hearty dishes, check out this Classic French Onion Meatloaf Recipe.

Caramelized onions in a skillet with Worcestershire sauce and steak slices cooking nearby.

What Does a Traditional Philly Cheesesteak Have on It?

A true Philly cheesesteak, when paired with the right Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning, delivers bold flavors in every bite. Want to learn more about the sandwich’s history and the best places to try it in Philadelphia? Check out this guide to Philly’s best food spots to experience the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Thinly sliced ribeye steak: The king of meats for cheesesteaks.
Cheese: The big debate is between Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese. (Honestly, it depends on your mood.)
Grilled onions: Sweet, golden, and slightly crisp.
Soft hoagie roll: Fresh and sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without falling apart.

And that’s it! No lettuce, no tomatoes, and definitely no mayo (sorry, sandwich rebels).

What Are You Supposed to Put on a Philly Cheesesteak?

Here’s the golden rule: keep it simple. Besides the essentials listed above, you can add extras like sautéed mushrooms or green bell peppers if you like. But purists might give you a side-eye for straying from tradition.

Oh, and don’t forget the seasoning. A light sprinkle while the meat cooks will infuse every bite with bold, savory goodness.

The Best Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Ready to make your own? Here’s a step-by-step guide for the ultimate homemade Philly cheesesteak.

Ingredients:

1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper (optional)
4 hoagie rolls
8 slices provolone cheese (or Cheez Whiz, your call)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Philly cheesesteak seasoning (see below for a DIY blend)

For the Seasoning:

1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Optional: A pinch of cayenne for heat

Instructions:

Prep the Steak: If your ribeye isn’t pre-sliced, freeze it for 20-30 minutes and then slice it as thin as possible. Trust me, it makes a world of difference.
Make the Seasoning: Mix all the seasoning ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
Cook the Onions: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions (and peppers, if using) and cook until golden and tender, about 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Steak: Heat the remaining olive oil in the same skillet. Add the sliced ribeye and cook until browned. Sprinkle with your Philly cheesesteak seasoning as it cooks.
Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat, pile the cooked steak into sections that match your hoagie rolls, and place cheese slices on top. Cover with a lid for a minute to melt the cheese.
Assemble: Load the meat and cheese mixture into the hoagie rolls, top with onions (and peppers if desired), and serve hot.

Freshly made Philly cheesesteak sandwich with melted cheese and caramelized onions in a toasted hoagie roll.

What Cheese Goes on a Philly Cheesesteak?

This might be the most hotly debated question in cheesesteak history. The top contenders are:

Cheez Whiz: The OG choice for many Philly spots. It’s creamy, salty, and unapologetically indulgent.
Provolone: A more traditional option with a mild, nutty flavor.
American Cheese: Gooey and classic. It’s the middle ground between Cheez Whiz and provolone.

No matter which cheese you pick, it should balance well with the Philly cheesesteak seasoning for a classic taste.

Pro tip: Experiment to see what you like best. Some folks even mix and match!

What to Season Cheesesteak With?

To add a little more punch, stir a splash of Worcestershire sauce into the beef as it cooks. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce. Then there’s the cheese — prov-olone, Cheez Whiz,

Philly Cheesesteak FAQs

What is Philly steak seasoning made of?

It’s a simple blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Some recipes include cayenne or dried herbs for extra flavor.

What is the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteak?

Worcestershire sauce is often the not-so-secret weapon, adding a rich umami flavor.

What does a traditional Philly cheesesteak have on it?

Thinly sliced ribeye steak, cheese, grilled onions, and a soft hoagie roll.

What are you supposed to put on a Philly cheesesteak?

Stick to the basics: meat, cheese, onions, and maybe peppers or mushrooms if you like.

What to season cheesesteak with?

beef’s natural flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth; paprika, though just a pinch, gives it a smoky kick. If you enjoy an herby nuance, a light dusting of Italian seasoning is good but not essential.
To add a little more punch, stir a splash of Worcestershire sauce into the beef as it cooks. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce. Then there’s the cheese — prov-olone, Cheez Whiz, or American—also adds its own salty, creamy flavor that ties it all together.

Pro Tip: Toast your roll lightly before assembling for a cheesesteak that stays crispy and holds up to all that melty goodness!

Final Thoughts

Making the perfect Philly cheesesteak at home doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right seasoning and a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a sandwich that’s packed with flavor and totally satisfying. Whether you’re team Cheez Whiz or a die-hard provolone fan, the key is to season that steak just right and let the flavors shine.

With Philly cheesesteak seasoning in your spice rack, creating an authentic cheesesteak at home is easier than ever.

Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, French Onion Meatloaf is a timeless recipe that consistently impresses. To make the meal even more memorable, consider pairing it with a warm and creamy mashed potato casserole, which offers a buttery, smooth complement to the rich flavors of the meatloaf. For a lighter side, a roasted garlic and parmesan asparagus dish adds a fresh, crispy contrast, perfectly rounding out the dinner. With these pairings, you’ll create a comforting and satisfying meal that feels both classic and elevated.

Now, who’s hungry? Go grab your skillet and get cooking!