The Philly cheesesteak, a classic American dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This iconic sandwich, consisting of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all piled high on a crusty roll, is a staple of Philadelphia cuisine. But what if you don’t live in Philly, or can’t make it to Pat’s or Geno’s? Fear not, dear readers, for we have the solution for you. In this article, we will show you how to cook the perfect Philly cheesesteak on a Blackstone griddle.
What is a Blackstone Griddle?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of cooking a Philly cheesesteak on a Blackstone, let’s take a brief moment to discuss what a Blackstone griddle is. A Blackstone griddle is a type of outdoor cooking griddle that is designed to provide a large, flat cooking surface. These griddles are typically made of steel or cast iron and are heated by propane or natural gas. They are incredibly versatile and can be used to cook a wide variety of dishes, from pancakes and eggs to seared steaks and, of course, Philly cheesesteaks.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to cooking a Philly cheesesteak, the ingredients you choose are crucial. Here are a few key ingredients you’ll need to get started:
- Thinly sliced beef ( ribeye or top round work well)
- Sliced cheese (Cheez Whiz is traditional, but you can also use provolone or mozzarella)
- Sliced onions
- Bell peppers (optional)
- Hoagie rolls
- Cooking oil or butter
Selecting the Perfect Cut of Beef
When it comes to choosing the right cut of beef for your Philly cheesesteak, you’ll want to opt for something that is thinly sliced and has a good balance of flavor and tenderness. Ribeye and top round are two popular options, as they are both relatively inexpensive and offer a rich, beefy flavor.
The Importance of Cheese
Cheese is a crucial component of the Philly cheesesteak, and there are several options to choose from. Cheez Whiz is the traditional choice, but you can also use provolone or mozzarella. If you’re feeling fancy, you could even try using a combination of cheeses.
Preparing Your Blackstone Griddle
Before you start cooking, you’ll need to prepare your Blackstone griddle. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Preheat your griddle to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
- Clean the griddle with a paper towel or brush to remove any debris or residue.
- Apply a small amount of cooking oil or butter to the griddle to prevent sticking.
Seasoning Your Griddle
If you’re new to cooking on a Blackstone griddle, you may want to consider seasoning it before use. Seasoning your griddle will help to create a non-stick surface and prevent rust. To season your griddle, simply apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface and heat it over medium heat for about an hour.
Cooking Your Philly Cheesesteak
Now that your griddle is preheated and seasoned, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking the perfect Philly cheesesteak on a Blackstone griddle:
- Slice your beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
- Add a small amount of cooking oil to the griddle and swirl it around to coat the surface.
- Add the sliced onions to the griddle and cook until they are translucent and starting to caramelize.
- Add the sliced beef to the griddle and cook until it is browned and cooked through.
- Slice the cheese and add it to the griddle, stirring until it is melted and gooey.
- Assemble the cheesesteak by placing the beef and cheese mixture onto a hoagie roll.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Sear
Achieving the perfect sear on your Philly cheesesteak is crucial. Here are a few tips to help you get it just right:
- Make sure your griddle is hot before adding the beef. You should see a sizzle when the beef hits the griddle.
- Don’t overcrowd the griddle. Cook the beef in batches if necessary, to ensure that each piece has enough room to cook evenly.
- Don’t stir the beef too much. Let it cook for a few minutes on each side to develop a nice crust.
Adding Some Extra Flavor
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is amazing on its own, there are a few ways you can add some extra flavor to take it to the next level. Here are a few ideas:
- Add some sliced bell peppers to the griddle with the onions for a bit of extra sweetness.
- Use a flavored cheese, such as garlic or herb, to add some extra depth to the dish.
- Add a sprinkle of paprika or dried oregano to the beef for a bit of extra flavor.
Getting Creative with Toppings
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is amazing on its own, there are a few ways you can get creative with toppings to take it to the next level. Here are a few ideas:
- Add some sliced hot peppers, such as jalapeños or banana peppers, for a bit of extra heat.
- Use a spicy cheese, such as pepper jack or provolone with red pepper flakes, to add some extra kick.
- Add some caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms to the cheesesteak for a bit of extra flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking a Philly cheesesteak on a Blackstone griddle is a bit of an art, but with a few simple tips and tricks, you can create a dish that is sure to impress. By choosing the right ingredients, preparing your griddle, and cooking the cheesesteak to perfection, you can create a dish that is truly unforgettable. So next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and satisfying meal, consider giving the Philly cheesesteak a try. Your taste buds will thank you.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Thinly sliced beef | 1 lb |
| Sliced cheese | 4 slices |
| Sliced onions | 1 large onion |
| Bell peppers | 2 large bell peppers |
| Hoagie rolls | 4 rolls |
| Cooking oil or butter | 2 tbsp |
- Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
- Clean the griddle with a paper towel or brush to remove any debris or residue.
What is the ideal cut of beef for a Philly cheesesteak?
The ideal cut of beef for a Philly cheesesteak is thinly sliced ribeye or top round. These cuts are tender, flavorful, and have the perfect balance of fat and lean meat. Ribeye is preferred by many because of its rich flavor and tender texture, while top round is a leaner option that still packs plenty of flavor.
When selecting your beef, look for slices that are about 1/16 inch thick. This will ensure that your cheesesteak cooks evenly and quickly on the Blackstone. You can also ask your butcher to slice the beef for you, or slice it yourself at home using a sharp knife.
How do I prepare my Blackstone for cooking a Philly cheesesteak?
To prepare your Blackstone for cooking a Philly cheesesteak, start by preheating the griddle to medium-high heat. While the griddle is heating up, clean it with a paper towel dipped in oil to remove any debris or residue. This will help prevent your cheesesteak from sticking to the griddle.
Once the griddle is hot, add a small amount of oil to the surface and let it heat up for a minute or two. This will help create a non-stick surface for your cheesesteak. You can also add a sprinkle of salt to the griddle to help bring out the flavors of the beef.
What type of cheese is best for a Philly cheesesteak?
The best type of cheese for a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference, but some popular options include Cheez Whiz, provolone, and white American. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks, as it melts easily and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich.
Provolone and white American are also popular choices, as they melt well and add a rich, buttery flavor to the cheesesteak. You can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to find the combination that you enjoy the most.
How do I assemble the perfect Philly cheesesteak?
To assemble the perfect Philly cheesesteak, start by slicing your beef into thin strips and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Next, add a small amount of oil to the preheated Blackstone and sauté the beef until it is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Once the beef is cooked, add sliced cheese to the Blackstone and let it melt. Then, add your desired toppings, such as sautéed onions and bell peppers, and place the beef and cheese onto a hoagie roll. Finally, add any additional toppings, such as ketchup or hot peppers, and serve immediately.
Can I cook a Philly cheesesteak on a Blackstone with a lid?
Yes, you can cook a Philly cheesesteak on a Blackstone with a lid. In fact, using a lid can help to melt the cheese and cook the beef more evenly. To cook a Philly cheesesteak with a lid, simply place the beef and cheese onto the preheated Blackstone and cover it with the lid.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Then, remove the lid and add any desired toppings before serving. Using a lid can help to create a crispy crust on the cheese and add extra flavor to the cheesesteak.
How do I prevent my Philly cheesesteak from becoming too greasy?
To prevent your Philly cheesesteak from becoming too greasy, make sure to cook the beef and cheese over medium-high heat. This will help to sear the beef and melt the cheese quickly, without allowing too much grease to accumulate.
You can also use a paper towel to blot the cheesesteak and remove any excess grease. Additionally, be mindful of the amount of oil you use when cooking the cheesesteak, and try to use a small amount of oil to prevent the cheesesteak from becoming too greasy.
Can I cook a Philly cheesesteak on a Blackstone for a large group of people?
Yes, you can cook a Philly cheesesteak on a Blackstone for a large group of people. In fact, the Blackstone is ideal for cooking for large groups because of its large cooking surface. To cook for a large group, simply multiply the ingredients and cook the cheesesteaks in batches.
You can also use the Blackstone’s multiple burners to cook multiple cheesesteaks at once. This will help to speed up the cooking process and ensure that everyone gets a hot, delicious cheesesteak. Just be sure to have plenty of hoagie rolls and toppings on hand to feed the crowd.