Delicious Philly Cheesesteak Pizza: Your New Favorite Meal!

Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary masterpiece that brings together two iconic comfort foods into one unforgettable experience. Imagine the savory, thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, and melted provolone cheese – the quintessential flavors of a classic cheesesteak – generously spread over a perfectly baked pizza crust. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving another slice.

The original Philly Cheesesteak, born in the bustling streets of Philadelphia, has long held a special place in American cuisine, celebrated for its robust flavors and hearty satisfaction. Now, by fusing this beloved sandwich with the universal appeal of pizza, we’ve created a dish that offers the best of both worlds. This innovative twist isn’t just a novelty; it’s a brilliant solution for those moments when you crave something truly special.

The rich, umami flavors combined with the satisfying chew of the crust make our homemade Philly Cheesesteak Pizza an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for game nights, family dinners, or simply a treat for yourself. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey that celebrates comfort and creativity!

Ingredients:

• For the Pizza Dough:
  • 1 pound store-bought pizza dough, or your favorite homemade recipe (enough for one 12-14 inch pizza). I always recommend a good quality dough!
• For the Steak and Veggies:
  • 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye steak or sirloin steak (look for steak labeled “sandwich steak” or ask your butcher to slice it paper-thin for the best results on your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza).
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced.
  • 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced (feel free to add a red bell pepper for extra color and sweetness if you like!).
  • 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced (optional, but they add wonderful umami depth to our Philly Cheesesteak Pizza).
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided.
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• For the Pizza Base and Cheese:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for the base).
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (for the base).
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, but a nice touch).
  • 6-8 ounces sliced provolone cheese (provolone is non-negotiable for a truly authentic Philly Cheesesteak Pizza experience!).
  • 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (for that perfect melty, stretchy goodness).
  • Optional: A few tablespoons of Cheez Whiz for drizzling after baking, if you’re feeling extra authentic.
• Equipment You’ll Need:
  • A large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan.
  • A pizza stone or baking steel (highly recommended for a crispy crust!) or a large baking sheet.
  • Parchment paper (helpful for transferring the pizza).

Preparing Your Pizza Dough

First things first, let’s get our pizza dough ready for its star role in our Philly Cheesesteak Pizza. If you’re using store-bought dough, make sure to take it out of the refrigerator about 1-2 hours before you plan to start cooking. This allows the dough to come to room temperature, making it much more pliable and easier to work with. Cold dough tends to spring back, making it frustrating to stretch.

1. Preheat your oven: If you’re using a pizza stone or baking steel, place it in your oven and preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go, usually around 475-500°F (245-260°C). Allow it to preheat for at least 30-45 minutes to ensure the stone is screaming hot. This extreme heat is crucial for a crisp crust, just like in a professional pizza oven. If you’re using a baking sheet, you can preheat it with the oven, or simply use it as your base.
2. Prepare your work surface: Lightly flour a clean surface or, my personal preference, lightly oil your hands and a clean countertop. Gently remove the dough from its packaging. Avoid aggressively punching down the dough; we want to preserve those lovely air bubbles that give pizza its characteristic texture.
3. Stretch the dough: Begin to gently stretch the dough into your desired 12-14 inch circle. You can use your hands, starting from the center and pushing outwards, or you can carefully lift and rotate the dough, letting gravity help stretch it. Try to keep the edges slightly thicker to form a nice crust. Don’t worry if it’s not a perfect circle – rustic is charming! If the dough resists stretching, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This gives the gluten a chance to relax, and you’ll find it much easier to stretch afterward.
4. Prepare for topping: Once stretched, carefully transfer your dough to a sheet of parchment paper that’s been lightly dusted with cornmeal or semolina. This step is a lifesaver for easy transfer onto your hot pizza stone. If you don’t have parchment, you can build the pizza directly on a lightly floured pizza peel, but be swift when transferring!
5. Par-baking (optional, but recommended for a crispier crust): For the ultimate crispy crust on your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza, I often recommend a quick par-bake. Carefully slide the naked dough (on the parchment paper, if using) onto the hot pizza stone or preheated baking sheet. Bake for about 3-5 minutes, just until it begins to puff up and is very lightly golden. This helps set the crust and prevents it from getting soggy under all those delicious toppings. Remove from the oven and carefully peel off the parchment paper if it’s stuck. Now your crust is ready for the generous layers of cheesesteak goodness!

Sautéing the Philly Cheesesteak Toppings

This is where the magic really happens for our Philly Cheesesteak Pizza. Achieving that authentic savory flavor requires a little patience and a hot pan. We’re going for beautifully caramelized onions and peppers, perfectly seared steak, and a harmonious blend of flavors.

1. Prep the vegetables: Ensure your onion, bell pepper(s), and mushrooms (if using) are all thinly sliced. Uniform slices will cook more evenly. Mince your garlic.
2. Caramelize the onions and peppers: In your large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the thinly sliced onions and bell peppers. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, or until they are beautifully softened and caramelized. We’re looking for a rich golden-brown color, which develops incredible sweetness and depth of flavor. If they start to stick, you can add a tiny splash of water or broth to deglaze the pan.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic: If you’re using mushrooms, add them to the pan along with the caramelized onions and peppers. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms have released their moisture and started to brown. Now, add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for just 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
4. Remove vegetables and deglaze: Transfer all the cooked vegetables to a bowl and set aside. Turn the heat up to medium-high. You’ll likely have some delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan – these are flavor gold! Add about 2 tablespoons of water or beef broth to the hot pan and scrape up all those flavorful bits with a wooden spoon. This process is called deglazing, and it’s a fantastic way to capture extra savory notes for our steak.
5. Cook the steak: Increase the heat to high. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the hot pan. Once the oil is shimmering and almost smoking, add the thinly sliced steak in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; you might need to cook the steak in two batches to ensure it sears properly rather than steams. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for only 1-2 minutes per side, just until the steak is nicely browned and cooked through. Thinly sliced steak cooks incredibly fast, and we want it tender, not tough.
6. Finish the steak: Once the steak is cooked, add the Worcestershire sauce to the pan and stir quickly to coat the steak. The Worcestershire sauce adds that signature tangy, umami kick that is quintessential to a true Philly cheesesteak. Immediately remove the pan from the heat.
7. Combine toppings: Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the steak. Give everything a good stir to combine all those incredible flavors. This mixture is the heart and soul of your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza, so make sure it’s seasoned to perfection. Taste a small piece and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Assembling Your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Now comes the exciting part – bringing all those delicious components together to create your masterpiece Philly Cheesesteak Pizza! This is where we layer flavors and ensure every bite will be a savory delight. Make sure your par-baked crust (if you opted for that step) is ready to go.

1. Prepare the base: If you par-baked your crust, it should be slightly cooled but still warm. If you didn’t par-bake, your raw dough should be on the parchment paper or pizza peel. In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the minced garlic and dried oregano (if using). Brush this garlic-infused olive oil generously over the entire surface of the pizza dough, extending right to the edges of the crust. This provides a flavorful base that lets the cheesesteak shine, without the distraction of a traditional red sauce.
2. Layer the provolone: Next, arrange the sliced provolone cheese over the garlic oil base. Make sure to cover the entire surface, leaving a small border for the crust. Provolone is the foundational cheese for a classic cheesesteak, and its sharp, nutty flavor is essential for our Philly Cheesesteak Pizza. Don’t be shy; a good layer of provolone creates a wonderful barrier for the toppings and melts beautifully.
3. Distribute the cheesesteak mixture: Now, spoon your hot and savory steak and vegetable mixture evenly over the provolone cheese. Spread it out all the way to the edge of the provolone layer. Ensure that every slice of pizza will get a good helping of steak, onions, and peppers. I always try to distribute the steak pieces as uniformly as possible.
4. Add the mozzarella: Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the steak and vegetable mixture. The mozzarella will add that fantastic stringy, gooey texture that everyone loves on a pizza, complementing the provolone perfectly. This combination of cheeses ensures a rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying melted cheese layer on your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza.

Baking the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

You’re just minutes away from enjoying your homemade Philly Cheesesteak Pizza! The baking process is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust, perfectly melted cheese, and wonderfully integrated flavors. Keep a close eye on your oven, as every oven is a little different.

1. Transfer to the oven: Carefully slide your assembled Philly Cheesesteak Pizza (still on the parchment paper, if using) onto your preheated pizza stone or baking steel. If you’re using a baking sheet, simply place the baking sheet with the pizza into the hot oven. Safety first! Always use oven mitts when dealing with hot surfaces.
2. Bake: Bake for 10-15 minutes. The exact timing will depend on your oven’s temperature, whether you par-baked the crust, and how thick your crust is. What we’re looking for is a beautifully golden-brown and crispy crust, with the cheese fully melted, bubbly, and perhaps even lightly browned in spots. The edges of the crust should be deep golden, indicating a perfect crispness.
3. Rotate for even baking (optional): If you notice one side of your pizza browning faster than the other, you can carefully rotate it halfway through the baking time. This ensures an even cook and a uniformly perfect crust.
4. Check for doneness: The best way to tell if your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is done is to gently lift a corner of the pizza with a spatula. If the crust is firm and golden underneath, it’s ready! The cheese should be molten and slightly caramelized in places, and the toppings heated through.
5. Remove from oven: Once your pizza has reached perfection, carefully slide it out of the oven using your pizza peel or a large spatula onto a wire cooling rack or cutting board.

Serving Suggestions and Pro Tips for Your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Congratulations, you’ve just created an amazing Philly Cheesesteak Pizza! Here are some final touches and tips to make your pizza experience even better.

1. Rest before slicing: This is a critical step for any pizza! Allow your pizza to rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This seemingly short resting period allows the cheese to set slightly and the juices from the steak to redistribute. If you cut it too soon, the cheese will slide off, and the toppings might shift, leading to a less enjoyable slice.
2. Slice and serve: After resting, use a sharp pizza cutter to slice your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza into your desired number of wedges. I find 8 slices to be standard, but feel free to go bigger or smaller depending on your appetite.
3. Optional Cheez Whiz drizzle: If you’re a purist or just love that extra layer of authentic Philly flavor, gently warm a few tablespoons of Cheez Whiz until it’s pourable, then drizzle it over the sliced pizza just before serving. This adds a unique tang and creaminess that really seals the deal for a truly “Philly” experience.
4. Pairing suggestions: This hearty Philly Cheesesteak Pizza pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A cold beer or a crisp dry white wine would also be excellent accompaniments.
5. Storage: If by some miracle you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven, a hot skillet, or even a conventional oven to retain crispness. Microwaving is an option, but it often leads to a soggy crust, which we definitely want to avoid after all that effort!
6. For the ultimate crispy crust: If you don’t have a pizza stone or steel, you can try preheating a heavy baking sheet or an inverted cast-iron skillet in the oven. This creates a similar hot surface for the crust to cook on quickly, resulting in a crispier bottom.
7. Steak preparation variation: For an even faster cooking time for the steak, you can partially freeze the ribeye for about 20-30 minutes before slicing. This makes it much easier to get those paper-thin slices that cook almost instantly in the hot pan.
8. Customize your veggies: While onions and peppers are classic, feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as finely chopped jalapeños for a little kick, or some thinly sliced banana peppers for a tangy contrast. Just make sure to sauté them until tender before adding to the pizza.
9. Cheese blend creativity: While provolone and mozzarella are my top picks, some people enjoy a touch of white cheddar or even Monterey Jack in their cheese blend for an extra layer of flavor on their Philly Cheesesteak Pizza. Experiment to find your perfect combination!
10. Consider a garlic butter crust finish: After your pizza comes out of the oven, brush the exposed crust with a little melted garlic butter for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful sheen. This is a small detail that makes a big difference.

There you have it! A truly satisfying, incredibly flavorful Philly Cheesesteak Pizza that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every delicious, cheesy bite!

Welcome to the grand finale of our culinary adventure! If you’ve been following along, you already know we’re not just talking about another recipe; we’re talking about a revelation. This isn’t merely a meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors and textures designed to ignite your taste buds and leave an indelible mark on your culinary memory. I truly believe that once you try this incredible dish, there will be no turning back. It perfectly encapsulates everything we love about hearty, comforting food, delivering a powerful punch of savory goodness in every single slice.

Conclusion:

So, why is this recipe an absolute must-try for everyone, from seasoned home cooks to those just starting their kitchen journey? Because it’s more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and ingenuity. We’ve taken two iconic, universally loved American classics—the succulent, savory Philly cheesesteak and the versatile, crowd-pleasing pizza—and merged them into something truly spectacular. The result is an unforgettable fusion that brings together tender, thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions and peppers, and a generous blanket of melty cheese, all atop a perfectly baked crust. It’s hearty without being heavy, indulgent yet wonderfully balanced, and utterly irresistible. This Philly Cheesesteak Pizza offers the ultimate comfort food experience, delivering a “wow” factor that’s hard to beat. It’s the kind of meal that silences a room as everyone savors their first bite, followed by murmurs of pure satisfaction. The sheer joy of biting into that perfect combination of savory meat, sweet veggies, and gooey cheese on a crisp, yet tender crust is something you truly have to experience to understand.

This pizza isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile, making it the perfect centerpiece for almost any occasion. Imagine serving this on a bustling game night – it’s guaranteed to be a touchdown. Or perhaps for a cozy family dinner where you want something truly special without hours of fuss. Even for a casual gathering with friends, cutting it into generous squares makes for fantastic, easy-to-eat party food that everyone will rave about. It elevates the humble pizza to gourmet status, proving that homemade can absolutely outshine takeout. The rich, savory aroma alone, as it bakes to golden perfection in your oven, will have everyone salivating with anticipation. It’s robust enough to satisfy the most ravenous appetites, yet sophisticated enough to impress even the most discerning palates. This recipe truly embodies the spirit of indulgent, yet approachable home cooking, offering a unique blend of flavors that appeals to nearly everyone.

Serving Suggestions and Delightful Variations:

While this magnificent pizza is a complete meal in itself, there are always ways to enhance the experience. For a lighter touch that balances the richness, I love serving it alongside a crisp, fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette. A simple coleslaw can also provide a refreshing counterpoint. For those who want to lean into the comfort food aspect even further, a side of crispy onion rings or homemade potato wedges would be a fantastic accompaniment. And don’t forget the beverages! A cold, crisp craft beer, a robust dry cider, or even a glass of your favorite sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon would pair wonderfully with the savory flavors of the pizza. When it comes to presentation, I personally love slicing this into generous squares for a more casual, shareable vibe, but traditional wedges work just as beautifully. The key is to serve it fresh and hot, straight from the oven, when the cheese is at its most molten and the crust is perfectly crisp. Leftovers, if you’re lucky enough to have any, are also incredibly delicious the next day, reheated gently in the oven or air fryer to restore that delightful crispness.

Now, let’s talk about making this recipe uniquely yours. The beauty of cooking lies in experimentation! Feel free to customize your Philly Cheesesteak Pizza to suit your personal preferences. For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes over the sauce or some sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled!) can add a delightful kick. Cheese lovers can experiment beyond the classic provolone or mozzarella blend – a touch of white cheddar could add a sharp tang, while a smoked gouda might introduce a wonderful depth of flavor. Don’t limit yourself to green bell peppers; vibrant red or yellow peppers can add a sweeter, fruitier note, and sliced mushrooms would bring an earthy, umami richness. For an extra decadent touch, consider adding a drizzle of garlic aioli or a sprinkle of fresh parsley after baking. You can also play with different crusts – a thin, crispy base for a lighter meal, or a thicker, doughy crust for maximum chewiness and indulgence. For those looking for a plant-based alternative, high-quality mushroom slices or a good plant-based steak substitute can transform this recipe into a delicious vegetarian option. Each variation offers a new adventure, ensuring this recipe remains exciting every single time you make it.

Your Culinary Journey Begins Now!

There you have it – all the reasons why this incredible creation needs to be on your immediate cooking list. I genuinely hope you feel inspired and excited to roll up your sleeves and bring this masterpiece to life in your own kitchen. There’s an unparalleled satisfaction that comes from creating something so utterly delicious from scratch, and I promise you, this recipe delivers that feeling in spades. The aroma that will fill your home, the smiles it will bring to your family and friends, and the sheer joy of that first bite are all waiting for you. Don’t just read about it; experience it! Go ahead, give this phenomenal Philly Cheesesteak Pizza a try. I am so incredibly eager to hear all about your culinary adventures. Please, please, please come back and share your experiences, your photos, and any delightful variations you come up with in the comments section below. Your feedback and creativity are what make this cooking community so vibrant and inspiring. Happy baking, and prepare yourselves for a truly unforgettable meal!

Recipe

A delicious recipe

Prep Time
15 min

Cook Time
15 min

Total Time
15 min

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

Instructions

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.