Philly Cheese Steak Wrap

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When it comes to delicious, hearty meals that promise to satisfy even the most insatiable of appetites, the iconic Philly Cheese Steak undoubtedly ranks high on the list. But what if I told you that there’s a way to take this classic and give it a twist that not only maintains its soul-satisfying essence but also adds a dash of convenience and innovation? Enter the Philly Cheese Steak Wrap, a culinary creation that marries the rich flavors of the traditional sandwich with the ease and portability of a wrap.

How to make Philly Cheese Steak Wrap

A Philly Cheese Steak Wrap is a variation of the classic Philadelphia cheese steak sandwich, but wrapped in a tortilla or flatbread instead of served on a hoagie roll. It typically consists of thinly sliced steak (traditionally ribeye), sautéed onions, and bell peppers, topped with melted cheese (usually provolone or American cheese).

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. thinly sliced ribeye steak (For the authentic experience, quality matters. Look for marbling!)
• 4 large flour tortillas (A 10-inch size works best for ample wrapping.)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced (Sweet or yellow, based on your preference.)
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (Optional, for a hint of freshness and color.)
• 8 slices of provolone cheese (Or American cheese for a creamier texture.)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (For sautéing the veggies and meat.)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.)
• Your choice of condiments (Mayo, hot sauce, or a drizzle of ketchup for added zest.)

Instructions:

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing your ingredients: Thinly slice the ribeye steak, onion, and green bell pepper.
2. Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface – this makes assembly quicker later on.

Cooking the Vegetables:

1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet, seasoning them with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Sauté the veggies until they’re soft and lightly caramelized—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
4. Once cooked, transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside.

Cooking the Meat:

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and increase the heat to medium-high.
2. Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s no longer pink—about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. For that authentic Philly Cheese Steak flavor, consider chopping the steak into smaller pieces as it cooks.

Assembling the Wrap:

1. Lay out a tortilla, and in the center, layer a couple of slices of provolone cheese.
2. On top of the cheese, add a quarter of the cooked meat followed by a generous helping of the sautéed onions and peppers.
3. If desired, add your choice of condiments now.
4. Carefully fold the bottom of the tortilla up over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly to secure everything.

Final Touch:

1. Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Place the wrap seam-side down to toast it lightly and ensure it stays closed—about 2 minutes per side should do the trick.
2. Repeat with the remaining wraps.

Personal Tips for Perfection:

• Quality of Meat: Splurging a little on a high-quality ribeye will elevate your wrap from good to great. The marbling in the meat ensures juiciness and flavor.
• Slicing Technique: If you find slicing the steak thinly challenging, try freezing the ribeye for about 30 minutes before slicing. This firms it up, making it easier to get those thin slices.
• Cheese Choice: While provolone is traditional, don’t be afraid to mix it up. A mix of provolone and American cheese can offer a nice balance of flavor and meltiness.
• Wrapping Strategy: To avoid overfilling your wraps (a common pitfall), start with less filling than you think you need. Remember, you can always add more if needed, but overfilling can lead to a wrap that’s difficult to close and messy to eat.

What to serve with

Serving up Philly Cheese Steak Wraps opens a playground of side dish possibilities that can elevate your meal to a more rounded, satisfying dining experience. The rich and savory flavor profile of the wrap pairs well with a variety of sides ranging from light and crisp to hearty and comforting. Here are some detailed suggestions that cater to different tastes and occasions:

Classic Sides

• Crispy French Fries: A classic choice, French fries are the quintessential partner to any sandwich or wrap. For a healthier twist, consider sweet potato fries, baked instead of fried, seasoned with a touch of paprika and sea salt.
• Onion Rings: For those who adore the combination of crispy and savory, onion rings make a delightful side dish. They add an excellent texture contrast to the soft wrap, and their sweet, crispy coating perfectly complements the meaty, cheesy filling.

Healthier Companions

• Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the cheese steak wrap with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and slivers of carrot. It’s refreshing, and the acidity from the dressing can cut through the fattiness of the meat nicely.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can serve as a refreshing side to the hearty wrap. To keep it on the lighter side, opt for a coleslaw dressed in a light vinaigrette instead of the traditional creamy dressing.

Comforting Additions

• Macaroni and Cheese: For those seeking comfort in every bite, a creamy mac ‘n’ cheese side dish offers a delectable cheesy goodness that harmonizes with the wrap’s cheesy elements. A dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can add a new layer of flavor to the macaroni.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and squash, roasted to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic, can add a healthy, flavorful dimension that complements the wrap’s richness.

Creative Twists

• Sweet Potato Chips: Homemade sweet potato chips seasoned with rosemary and sea salt can offer a lovely, crispy counterbalance to the savory wrap.
• Pickle Spears: The sharp tang of pickle spears can provide a refreshing palate cleanse between bites of the rich wrap. For a flavor boost, opt for dill or garlic pickles.

Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: A creamy and garlicky sauce that pairs wonderfully with both vegetable sides and potato-based options.
• Spicy Ketchup: A simple mix of ketchup with a dash of hot sauce can add a kick to fries or onion rings.
• Ranch Dressing: Perfect for dipping veggies or drizzling over a side salad for those who prefer creamy dressings.

Beverage Pairings

• Craft Beer: A cold, crisp craft beer, especially an IPA or a lager, can complement the richness of the wrap.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing glass of iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, with a squeeze of lemon, pairs nicely.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating the perfect Philly Cheese Steak Wrap doesn’t mean you have to stick rigidly to the traditional ingredients. Whether due to dietary restrictions, personal taste preferences, or simply the need to use what’s available in your kitchen, there are plenty of ingredient substitutes that can help you maintain the essence of this beloved dish while making it uniquely your own.

Meat Alternatives:

• Ribeye Substitute: While ribeye is the traditional choice for its marbling and flavor, other cuts such as sirloin or skirt steak can be good substitutes. They’re leaner but still tender and flavorful when cooked properly. For a non-beef option, thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh can work well. Vegetarians can opt for portobello mushrooms or seitan for a meaty texture.
• Cooking the Vegetarian/Vegan Option: When using portobello mushrooms or seitan, marinate them first in a mixture of soy sauce, olive oil, and a dash of liquid smoke to add depth of flavor before sautéing.

Cheese Alternatives:

• Provolone Substitute: Provolone’s mild flavor and ability to melt smoothly makes it a favorite, but mozzarella or white cheddar can be excellent substitutes, offering a similar texture with a slight variation in taste. For a creamier cheese filling, consider using Cheese Whiz, which is also popular in some versions of the Philly Cheese Steak.
• Vegan Cheese: Many vegan cheese options are available made from soy, nuts, or vegetable oils. These cheeses melt well and can mimic the texture and taste of traditional cheese.

Tortilla Alternatives:

• Flour Tortilla Substitute: While flour tortillas are commonly used for their durability and size, whole wheat tortillas offer a healthier alternative with added fiber. For a gluten-free option, look for tortillas made from corn or other gluten-free grains. Lettuce wraps can also be a low-carb alternative, providing a fresh, crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the filling.

Vegetable Variations:

• Onions and Peppers: While onions and green bell peppers are traditional, feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter taste or jalapeños for a spicy kick. If onions are too strong for your preference, try shallots for a milder flavor.

Seasoning Adjustments:

• Salt and Pepper: While simple, salt and pepper are all that’s traditionally needed to season the meat. However, adding a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the meat’s flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Condiment Variations:

• Mayo, Hot Sauce, and Ketchup: These are great starting points, but feel free to get creative. Horseradish sauce, mustard, or a balsamic glaze can offer unique flavors. Sriracha or chipotle mayo can add a nice heat and smokiness to the wrap.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—the ultimate Philly Cheese Steak Wrap recipe that promises not just a meal but an experience. This delight encapsulates the essence of Philadelphia in a grab-go form, making it perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy family dinner or a tailgate party. Experiment with the ingredients to match your taste, and don’t forget to enjoy every bite of this delectable creation.

More Sandwich Recipes:

• Cookie Sandwich Recipe
• Oatmeal Sandwich Cookies