The Philly cheesesteak Seasoning is more than just a sandwich it’s an iconic piece of American culinary culture. Originating in Philadelphia, this mouthwatering creation consists of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and a soft hoagie roll. But what truly sets apart a good cheesesteak from a great one? The answer lies in the seasoning.
Table of Contents
What is Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning?
A Philly cheesesteak Seasoning may seem simple, but its seasoning plays a major role in enhancing the taste of the meat and tying all the ingredients together. Unlike other steak seasonings, which can be bold and peppery, Philly cheesesteak seasoning is designed to highlight the beef’s natural flavor without overpowering it.
Traditional Ingredients in a Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning
Before diving into seasoning specifics, it’s important to understand the core ingredients of a classic Philly cheesesteak:
- Ribeye steak – The traditional and preferred cut of beef, known for its marbling and tenderness.
- Cheese – Options include Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese.
- Hoagie roll – A soft, slightly crusty roll that holds everything together.
- Onions – A common ingredient, typically sautéed until caramelized.
While these ingredients provide the foundation, the seasoning is what makes everything pop.
Key Spices and Herbs that Define the Flavor
A well-balanced Philly cheesesteak seasoning includes a combination of savory, slightly smoky, and umami-enhancing spices:
- Salt – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the meat.
- Black Pepper – Adds a mild spice and depth.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the umami and savory notes.
- Onion Powder – Complements the sautéed onions commonly used in cheesesteaks.
- Paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness and mild heat.
- Oregano – A touch of herbal brightness to balance the richness.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For those who like a slight kick of heat.
By combining these elements, you create a seasoning that enhances the meat without masking its natural flavors.
The Science of Seasoning: How Spices Enhance the Cheesesteak Experience
Understanding how seasoning interacts with meat can help you achieve the best-tasting Philly cheesesteak Seasoning possible.
Balancing Savory, Sweet, and Umami Flavors
A good seasoning mix should hit all the right taste receptors:
- Salt (savory) – Enhances natural flavors and balances out richness.
- Garlic and onion powder (umami) – Deepen the meaty taste.
- Paprika (sweet & smoky) – Adds warmth and mild complexity.
- Oregano (herbal contrast) – Prevents the cheesesteak from tasting too heavy.
The Role of Salt, Pepper, and Aromatics
Salt plays the biggest role in any seasoning. It helps retain moisture in the beef and enhances its natural juiciness. Black pepper, garlic, and onion powder work together to build depth, while paprika and oregano add a subtle layer of complexity without making the sandwich overly spicy.
Homemade Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning Recipe
Making your own Philly cheesesteak seasoning at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your preference.
Simple DIY Blend: Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s a basic homemade Philly cheesesteak seasoning mix that will elevate your sandwich:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl.
- Store in an airtight container for up to six months.
- Use 1–2 teaspoons per cheesesteak, adjusting to taste.
This simple blend enhances the natural beef flavors while adding just the right amount of spice and depth.
Adjusting the Seasoning for Personal Taste
Want to tweak the seasoning to match your preference? Here’s how:
- For a smokier flavor → Add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- For extra umami → Mix in a dash of Worcestershire powder.
- For more heat → Increase the red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
This flexibility allows you to create a cheesesteak tailored to your exact taste.
Best Store-Bought Philly Cheesesteak Seasonings: Top Picks and Reviews
If you prefer the convenience of pre-made seasoning blends, there are some excellent options available.
Comparing Popular Brands
Several spice companies offer Philly cheesesteak-specific seasoning blends. Here are a few top-rated ones:
| Brand | Flavor Profile | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| McCormick Grill Mates | Smoky & garlicky | Readily available, consistent | May be too strong for traditional cheesesteaks |
| Kinder’s Buttery Steakhouse | Buttery & savory | Great for beef, rich flavor | Higher sodium content |
| Weber Steak ‘N Chop | Balanced & robust | Works well on all meats | Slightly peppery for cheesesteaks |
| The Spice House | Classic & authentic | High-quality ingredients | More expensive |
What to Look for When Buying Pre-Made Seasoning
When selecting a store-bought seasoning, consider the following:
- Salt level – Some blends are salt-heavy, so adjust accordingly.
- Authenticity – Look for seasoning with garlic, onion, and paprika as the main ingredients.
- Versatility – Choose a blend that can work on beef, chicken, or even vegetables.
By choosing the right seasoning, you can save time while still enjoying a flavorful Philly cheesesteak.
How to Properly Season Your Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning
Now that you have the perfect Philly cheesesteak seasoning, it’s time to apply it correctly. The way you season your cheesesteak can significantly impact its flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right.
Seasoning the Meat Before Cooking
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not seasoning the meat before cooking. Seasoning the beef before it hits the pan ensures that the flavors penetrate deeper and create a well-balanced taste.
Steps for Pre-Seasoning:
- Slice the ribeye thinly – The thinner the slices, the better the seasoning sticks.
- Pat the meat dry – This helps it absorb the seasoning evenly.
- Sprinkle a light layer of seasoning – Don’t overdo it; about ½ teaspoon per portion is enough.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes – This allows the spices to absorb before cooking.
By seasoning before cooking, the flavors integrate naturally into the meat instead of just sitting on the surface.
Adding Seasoning at Different Cooking Stages
For the best results, season in two stages:
- Before cooking (as mentioned above).
- During cooking – Once the meat starts browning, add another light sprinkle of seasoning to boost the flavor.
Pro Tip: Avoid seasoning after cooking because the flavors won’t blend well with the meat, and you might get a powdery taste.
Enhancing the Flavor with Additional Toppings
Seasoning the meat is just one part of the equation. The right toppings can enhance the overall taste of your cheesesteak.
Here are some flavor-boosting additions:
| Topping | How It Affects Flavor |
|---|---|
| Caramelized Onions | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Sautéed Mushrooms | Brings an umami boost |
| Roasted Peppers | Adds a mild smoky-sweet touch |
| Worcestershire Sauce | Deepens the meat’s richness |
| Melted Cheese | Binds all flavors together |
By combining a well-seasoned steak with flavorful toppings, you create a perfectly balanced cheesesteak.
Philly Cheesesteak Variations and How Seasoning Affects the Taste
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is unbeatable, there are many delicious variations that work with different proteins and ingredients.
Classic Philly Cheesesteak vs. Gourmet Twists
The traditional Philly cheesesteak sticks to simple ingredients: ribeye, onions, cheese, and hoagie rolls. However, gourmet versions take it a step further by adding new seasonings, sauces, and cheeses.
| Style | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| Classic Philly Cheesesteak | Simple seasoning, Cheez Whiz or provolone, no extra toppings |
| Gourmet Cheesesteak | Uses truffle aioli, gourmet cheeses (Gruyère, aged cheddar), or artisan bread |
| Spicy Cheesesteak | Includes jalapeños, cayenne pepper in seasoning, and pepper jack cheese |
| Garlic Butter Cheesesteak | Steak is cooked in a garlic butter sauce for richer flavor |
Changing the seasoning slightly can transform your cheesesteak completely, making it a customized experience.
Using Seasoning in Chicken and Vegetarian Cheesesteaks
If you’re making a chicken or vegetarian version of a Philly cheesesteak, you’ll need to adjust the seasoning slightly.
Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs.
- Add a pinch more garlic powder and smoked paprika for depth.
- Cook the chicken in butter for extra richness.
Vegetarian Cheesesteak:
- Use portobello mushrooms or seitan instead of meat.
- Increase the onion and garlic powder for more umami.
- Try adding nutritional yeast to mimic the richness of cheese.
By adapting the seasoning, you can enjoy Philly cheesesteak flavors in a variety of ways.
Common Mistakes When Seasoning a Philly Cheesesteak and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced cooks can make mistakes when seasoning their cheesesteaks. Here are some common pitfalls and how to fix them.
Overpowering the Meat with Too Many Spices
A Philly cheesesteak isn’t a heavily spiced dish its beauty lies in its simplicity. Adding too many seasonings (like cumin, chili powder, or excessive herbs) can mask the natural beefy taste.
Solution: Stick to simple, balanced seasonings salt, pepper, garlic, onion powder, and a bit of paprika.
Not Balancing Salt and Acidity Properly
Salt is essential, but too much can make your cheesesteak taste too salty or one-dimensional. Likewise, if you skip acidity (like sautéed onions or Worcestershire sauce), the flavors can feel flat.
Solution: Add a touch of acidity (onions, a squeeze of lemon, or a dash of Worcestershire) to balance out the saltiness.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning
Can I use steak seasoning instead of Philly cheesesteak seasoning?
Steak seasoning often contains bolder spices like coriander and chili powder, which can overpower the cheesesteak. Philly cheesesteak seasoning is milder and designed to highlight the beef’s natural flavors.
Use a simpler seasoning mix (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika) for an authentic taste.
What’s the best type of salt for seasoning a cheesesteak?
Kosher salt is the best choice because it dissolves evenly and doesn’t clump like table salt. Sea salt can also work but may require adjusting the quantity.
How do I make a low-sodium or keto-friendly Philly cheesesteak seasoning?
To make a low-sodium version, simply reduce the salt and add more garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper for flavor.
For a keto-friendly option:
- Stick to natural seasonings (no sugar or fillers).
- Use sea salt and fresh-ground black pepper.
- Add a touch of smoked paprika for more depth.
Does Philly cheesesteak seasoning work for other dishes?
Yes! The balanced, savory flavor of Philly cheesesteak seasoning makes it versatile for:
- Burgers
- Grilled vegetables
- Chicken or pork chops
- Roasted potatoes
- Eggs or omelets
Simply adjust the seasoning based on the dish for the best results.
Conclusion: Mastering the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning
A Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich it’s a flavor experience. The right seasoning blend enhances the beef, complements the cheese, and ties everything together in a perfect balance.
To recap:
Use a simple, well-balanced seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika).
Season in two stages (before and during cooking).
Enhance with toppings like caramelized onions and melted cheese.
Avoid overpowering flavors and balance salt with acidity.
Experiment with variations like chicken or vegetarian cheesesteaks.
By following these tips, you’ll create the most flavorful and authentic Philly cheesesteak one that rivals even the best in Philadelphia.
Now it’s time to put your knowledge into action! Grab your ingredients, season your steak, and enjoy the ultimate homemade Philly cheesesteak.
Philly Cheesesteak Seasoning
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Airtight Storage Container
Ingredients
Seasoning Blend
- 1 tbsp salt adjust to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika regular or smoked
- 1/2 tsp oregano dried
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the seasoning to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
- Use 1-2 teaspoons per cheesesteak, adjusting to taste.