Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, with countless variations across cultures and regions. Among the diverse pizza styles, some take inspiration from iconic dishes and blend them with the familiar pizza format. One such popular fusion is the Philly Cheesesteak Pizza. This creation takes the beloved flavors of the classic Philadelphia cheesesteak sandwich and reimagines them on a pizza crust.
In this article, we will explore what goes on a Philly Cheesesteak pizza, how the dish is made, the variations it has undergone, and why it has become such a popular choice for pizza lovers. Additionally, we will take a closer look at the history of the Philly cheesesteak and discuss the most common and creative ways to prepare and enjoy this delicious pizza variation.
The Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak
Before diving into the details of Philly Cheesesteak Pizza, it’s important to understand the origins of the Philly cheesesteak itself. The Philly cheesesteak, also known simply as a cheesesteak, is a sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the early 20th century. It typically consists of thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak, melted cheese, and a soft hoagie roll.
The sandwich was invented in 1930 by Pat and Harry Olivieri, two Italian-American brothers who ran a hot dog stand in Philadelphia. According to the story, the Olivieri brothers decided to make a sandwich using thinly sliced beef and put it on an Italian roll, topped with onions and cheese. The sandwich became so popular that the Olivieri brothers opened their first cheesesteak shop, Pat’s King of Steaks, which is still in operation today. Another key establishment, Geno’s Steaks, followed shortly after, and a rivalry between the two shops has continued for decades.
The classic Philly cheesesteak features a few key ingredients:
- Thinly sliced beef (often ribeye or other cuts of steak)
- Cheese (usually American cheese, provolone, or Cheese Whiz)
- Onions (often grilled or sautéed)
- Peppers and mushrooms (optional, but commonly added)
- Hoagie roll (soft and airy, perfect for holding the juicy ingredients)
These ingredients have become iconic in the world of sandwiches, and their popularity has transcended Philadelphia, with many restaurants and food vendors around the world serving their own versions of the Philly cheesesteak.
Philly Cheesesteak Pizza: A Delicious Fusion
Philly cheesesteak pizza is a creative mash-up of the classic Philly cheesesteak and traditional pizza. The base remains the same as any pizza—dough, sauce, and cheese—but the toppings are inspired by the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. This unique fusion dish has gained popularity for its rich flavors and the satisfying combination of pizza and sandwich elements.
Key Ingredients of Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
The toppings on a Philly cheesesteak pizza mirror those of a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich, with a few variations to make it pizza-friendly. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients commonly found on a Philly cheesesteak pizza:
1. Beef
At the heart of a Philly cheesesteak pizza is the beef, typically thinly sliced ribeye steak or other cuts of beef. The beef is usually sautéed or grilled to achieve that savory, tender texture that is characteristic of a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich. It is often seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic or other spices to enhance the flavor.
In some variations, the beef might be replaced with chicken, in which case the pizza would be called a “chicken Philly” or “chicken cheesesteak pizza.” However, the beef version remains the most popular.
2. Cheese
Cheese is a defining component of the Philly cheesesteak, and the same goes for Philly cheesesteak pizza. While the traditional sandwich often features provolone, American cheese, or Cheese Whiz, pizza versions of the dish typically use a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheeses. This provides a creamy, melty texture and allows the cheese to melt evenly over the pizza, giving it that gooey, indulgent appeal.
Some variations may also include a drizzle of Cheese Whiz on top after the pizza is baked, mimicking the traditional cheesesteak topping.
3. Onions
Grilled onions are a key part of a Philly cheesesteak, adding sweetness and savory depth to the dish. Onions are sautéed until soft and caramelized before being added to the pizza. The caramelization process enhances the natural sugars in the onions, giving them a rich, deep flavor that complements the beef and cheese.
In some recipes, bell peppers or mushrooms may be added along with the onions to create a more complex flavor profile. These vegetables help balance the richness of the beef and cheese while adding texture to the pizza.
4. Peppers and Mushrooms (Optional)
While not always included in a traditional Philly cheesesteak, many versions of the pizza incorporate sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms. These vegetables add flavor, color, and texture to the dish, complementing the other ingredients.
Bell peppers can add a subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch, making them a popular addition to the pizza.
Mushrooms provide an earthy flavor and soft texture that contrasts nicely with the beef and cheese.
These additions are optional, but they are frequently used to enhance the overall flavor profile of the pizza.
5. Pizza Dough and Sauce
Of course, a pizza crust is essential to hold the ingredients together. The dough can be either thin and crispy or thick and chewy, depending on personal preference. The crust should be sturdy enough to support the weight of the toppings without becoming soggy.
As for the sauce, most Philly cheesesteak pizzas use a white garlic sauce or a cream-based sauce. This creates a creamy and smooth base that complements the rich flavors of the beef and cheese. Some recipes may also use a light tomato sauce, but this is less common. The white sauce provides a mild, flavorful backdrop that allows the toppings to shine.
Assembly of the Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
The assembly of a Philly cheesesteak pizza involves several steps to ensure that the pizza is baked evenly and all the flavors are well-balanced.
Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, whether you prefer a thin, crispy crust or a thick, chewy base. Preheat the oven to a high temperature, usually between 475°F and 500°F (245°C – 260°C), to ensure the crust bakes properly.
Spread the Sauce: If you’re using a white garlic sauce, spread a thin, even layer over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges for the crust. Avoid using too much sauce, as it can make the pizza soggy.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese over the sauce, ensuring it covers the entire pizza. Then, add provolone cheese, either sliced or shredded, to give the pizza extra flavor.
Layer the Beef: Sauté or grill the thinly sliced beef and then layer it evenly over the cheese. You can use about 1-2 cups of beef, depending on how meaty you want the pizza to be.
Add the Onions and Vegetables: Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using) until they are soft and caramelized. Evenly distribute these vegetables on top of the beef and cheese.
Bake the Pizza: Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Finish with Cheese Whiz (Optional): If desired, drizzle a small amount of Cheese Whiz on top of the pizza after it comes out of the oven to mimic the traditional Philly cheesesteak experience.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the pizza is baked to perfection, slice it and serve it hot. The result should be a deliciously cheesy, savory pizza with all the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich.
Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
While the basic concept of Philly cheesesteak pizza involves beef, cheese, onions, and a pizza crust, there are several variations and creative twists that can be added to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
1. Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Pizza:
Instead of using beef, some people prefer chicken as the protein for their Philly cheesesteak pizza. Grilled or sautéed chicken breast is sliced thin and used as the main topping, providing a lighter, leaner option while still retaining the essential flavors of the original sandwich.
2. Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Pizza:
For those who prefer a vegetarian option, a Philly cheesesteak pizza can be made with plant-based protein or simply without any meat. Grilled portobello mushrooms can substitute for the beef, and additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini can be added for extra flavor.
3. Gluten-Free Philly Cheesesteak Pizza:
For individuals with gluten sensitivities, a gluten-free pizza crust can be used as a base. The toppings remain the same, with thinly sliced beef, cheese, and vegetables, ensuring that those who cannot eat gluten still get to enjoy the delicious Philly cheesesteak flavors.
4. Buffalo Philly Cheesesteak Pizza:
A spicy variation of the Philly cheesesteak pizza includes the addition of buffalo sauce, either drizzled over the beef or mixed into the sauce. This adds a tangy, spicy element to the pizza, reminiscent of buffalo chicken wings.
Conclusion
Philly cheesesteak pizza is a delicious and satisfying fusion of two iconic comfort foods. Combining the savory, cheesy goodness of a traditional Philly cheesesteak with the beloved pizza crust creates a mouthwatering dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes. The key ingredients—beef, cheese, onions, and sometimes peppers or mushrooms—are layered on a pizza crust and baked to perfection, creating a flavorful and hearty meal.
Whether you stick to the classic version with beef and provolone or get creative with variations like chicken, buffalo sauce, or vegetarian options, Philly cheesesteak pizza is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it an excellent choice for pizza night, parties, or anytime you’re craving a deliciously unique take on pizza.
With its history rooted in Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich scene, Philly cheesesteak pizza has become a staple in pizza kitchens worldwide. It offers a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and ingredients that have made it a popular option on pizzeria menus. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a pizza with a twist, give the Philly cheesesteak pizza a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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