Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: The Ultimate Game Day Delight
Prepare for an explosion of flavor with these incredible Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls! Imagine the classic, beloved taste of a tender Philly cheesesteak – featuring perfectly seasoned steak, sautéed bell peppers, sweet onions, and an irresistible melty cheese – all meticulously wrapped inside a golden, impossibly crispy egg roll wrapper. This innovative twist transforms a hearty sandwich into the perfect handheld appetizer or a fun, unconventional dinner that’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. They are not just an appetizer; they are a culinary experience, bringing together the comfort of American diner food with the delightful crunch of Asian-inspired street food, making them an unforgettable crowd-pleaser.
Why These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Are a Must-Try
There’s something uniquely satisfying about taking a beloved classic and giving it a fresh, exciting spin. Our Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls do just that, offering all the iconic flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich but with an added crunch and unparalleled convenience. Instead of a soft bun, you get a crunchy golden-brown shell that encases a juicy, savory filling, making every bite an absolute delight. This clever fusion appetizer allows you to enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness of a Philly in a completely new and exciting way.
This recipe truly shines for several reasons. Firstly, it offers a fantastic way to enjoy the rich combination of thinly sliced steak, perfectly caramelized onions, sweet bell peppers, and melted cheese in a format that’s ideal for sharing and incredibly easy to eat. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together with friends, or simply looking for an exciting new family dinner, these easy-to-make egg rolls are incredibly versatile and always impress. Their portability and irresistible flavor make them a fantastic conversation starter and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, often disappearing from the plate as quickly as they’re served.
Comparing them to other Philly cheesesteak adaptations, like a Philly Cheesesteak Dip or even a traditional Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, these egg rolls stand out for their satisfying textural contrast. That irresistible crunch from the perfectly fried wrapper, followed by the warm, gooey, and savory filling, creates a culinary experience that’s both familiar and delightfully new. You simply can’t go wrong with the robust, comforting flavors of a Philly, especially when they come in such a perfectly portioned, crispy package. It’s a guaranteed hit that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Key Ingredients for Authentic Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Crafting the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls begins with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together harmoniously to create that iconic flavor profile you know and love. While the full list with precise measurements is provided in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, here’s an overview of what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering appetizer:
Ingredient Spotlight: Tips for Best Results & Easy Substitutions
Understanding each component and knowing when you can make smart substitutions will elevate your cooking experience and ensure delicious results every time. Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients and some helpful tips for making the best Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls:
BEEF – We highly recommend flank steak for its robust flavor and ability to be sliced thinly, giving you that authentic cheesesteak texture. To achieve perfectly tender results, always slice the flank steak against the grain into small, bite-sized pieces. This technique helps break down the muscle fibers, ensuring a tender chew. If flank steak isn’t available or you prefer other options, thinly sliced ribeye, top round, or sirloin are excellent premium choices that will also deliver fantastic results. For a more budget-friendly or quicker preparation, good quality ground beef can also be used; simply cook and crumble it well, though it will yield a slightly different texture from the traditional shaved steak.
EGG ROLL WRAPPER – These crucial components are what give our egg rolls their signature crispiness and golden-brown exterior. You’ll typically find them in the refrigerated section of your local grocery store, often near the produce or dairy sections. Make sure to choose standard egg roll wrappers, which are thicker and fry up crispier and more golden than thinner spring roll wrappers. They provide the perfect sturdy vessel for our hearty filling, holding up well to frying without becoming soggy.
VEGGIES – The classic combination of bell peppers (using both green and red adds great color and a balanced sweetness), onions (sweet or yellow onions work best for caramelization and flavor depth), and mushrooms (baby bella or white button varieties are perfect) forms the aromatic and textural heart of the filling. These vegetables sauté beautifully, adding depth and a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory steak. Feel free to customize this blend! You can easily omit any vegetables you don’t prefer, or add other favorites like finely diced jalapeños for a little kick, or even some fresh spinach for added greens and a slightly different flavor profile. Just ensure all vegetables are finely chopped for even distribution within the egg roll.
CHEESE – For that essential gooey, melty texture, shredded mozzarella is a fantastic choice, known for its superb meltability and mild flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine. Provolone, especially sharp provolone, offers a more traditional Philly flavor profile with a bit more tang and depth. Alternatively, quality deli American cheese (make sure it’s from the deli counter, not the individually wrapped processed squares) also melts beautifully and delivers a wonderfully creamy consistency that many cheesesteak lovers adore. The key is a cheese that melts smoothly and becomes a cohesive, irresistible part of the rich filling.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Irresistible Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions will help you visualize the process of making these delicious egg rolls, ensuring perfect results every time. For a printer-friendly version with all precise measurements and ingredient quantities, simply refer to the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Steak: Begin by placing the chopped flank steak pieces into a large mixing bowl. Ensure they are cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy wrapping.
- Season the Meat: In a separate small bowl, thoroughly whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the garlic salt, paprika, and onion powder. This carefully selected spice blend will infuse the meat with classic savory flavors. Pour this aromatic mixture over the steak in the large bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece of meat is well coated with the seasonings.
- Cook the Steak: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned meat. Cook, stirring occasionally to break up any clumps, until the steak is no longer pink and is nicely browned on all sides. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the steak tough and dry, impacting the final texture of your egg rolls.
- Drain Excess Liquid: Transfer the cooked meat into a colander placed over a bowl. Allow it to drain thoroughly to remove any excess liquid. This crucial step helps prevent soggy egg rolls and ensures a crisp wrapper, which is essential for the best texture.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Return the same skillet to the heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, typically about 3-4 minutes. They should be softened but still retain some textural integrity and a slight bite.
- Finely Chop the Filling: Place about half of the cooked meat and vegetables into a food chopper. Pulse quickly 2-3 times, just enough to break the mixture into smaller, more manageable pieces for the egg roll filling. The goal is to create a finer, cohesive texture for easy rolling and a satisfying bite, not a paste.
CHEF’S TIP – If you don’t have a food chopper, a sharp Chef’s knife can be used to manually chop the meat and vegetables into smaller, even pieces on a cutting board. Take your time to get a consistent chop for the best results.
- Combine Filling: Mix the finely pulsed meat and vegetable mixture with the remaining, coarser meat and veggie mixture in a large bowl. This combination provides a delightful balance of textures in the final egg roll, ensuring both savory chunks and well-integrated flavors throughout the filling.
- Prepare Wrappers: Lay out your egg roll wrappers on a clean, flat work surface. Arrange them with one corner pointing towards you, like a diamond, which is the traditional and most effective method for rolling egg rolls.
- Fill the Wrappers: Spoon a generous tablespoon of shredded cheese into the center of each egg roll wrapper, followed by about 2 tablespoons of the prepared meat/vegetable mixture. Avoid overfilling to ensure easy and secure wrapping, which is key for a successful fry and preventing blowouts.
- Moisten Edges: Dip your finger in a small bowl of water and lightly moisten all four edges of the egg roll wrapper. This creates a natural adhesive that will hold the filling securely during frying and prevent the wrapper from unraveling.
- Roll the Egg Rolls: Take the bottom corner of the wrapper and fold it snugly over the filling, tucking the point under the filling. Then, fold the two side corners inwards towards the center. Finally, roll the wrapper tightly upwards from the bottom, creating a compact cylinder. Ensure the ends are well sealed to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking.
- Preheat Fryer: Preheat your deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Achieving the correct oil temperature is absolutely vital for crispy, non-greasy results. If the oil is too cool, the egg rolls will absorb too much fat.
- Fry to Perfection: Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for approximately 7 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and begin to float to the top. The wrapper should be visibly crispy and firm, indicating it’s perfectly cooked.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried egg rolls from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over paper towels. This allows any excess oil to drain off, ensuring maximum crispness and a less greasy final product. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Success
For deep frying your Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, oils with a high smoke point are best to prevent burning and ensure a crispy texture. Excellent choices include canola oil, peanut oil, vegetable oil, or safflower oil. These oils will ensure your egg rolls cook evenly and achieve that desired golden, crispy exterior without imparting unwanted flavors or burning at high temperatures.
Absolutely! No deep fryer? No problem. You can just as easily make these delicious egg rolls in a large deep-sided skillet or a sturdy Dutch oven. Simply fill the skillet about halfway with your chosen frying oil (as mentioned above) and heat it to 375°F (190°C). It’s crucial to use a candy thermometer to accurately monitor and maintain the oil temperature, as consistent heat is key to perfectly crispy, non-greasy egg rolls. Remember to fry in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much.
Once your egg rolls have fully cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To bring back their delightful crispness when reheating, we highly recommend using an air fryer or a conventional oven. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly warmed through and crispy again. Microwaving is not advised, as it will make the wrappers soft and unappetizing, losing their signature crunch.
Yes, these egg rolls freeze exceptionally well, offering a fantastic make-ahead option! Once completely cooled, transfer cooked egg rolls to a large freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or air fryer until hot and crispy. For uncooked egg rolls: Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, you can either fry them directly from frozen (adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time) or thaw them in the refrigerator first before frying as directed.
The secret to crispy, non-greasy egg rolls lies in two main factors: maintaining the correct oil temperature and not overcrowding the fryer. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the wrappers will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn before the filling is heated through. Always use a thermometer to keep the oil consistently at 375°F (190°C). Additionally, fry in small batches if necessary, allowing enough space between egg rolls for the oil temperature to remain consistent and for even, thorough cooking. Proper draining on a wire rack after frying is also crucial for minimizing oil residue.
Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of ways, making them a fantastic addition to any menu. While they are a true game-day favorite and perfect for any party or casual gathering, they also make a surprisingly satisfying and fun light dinner. Their rich, savory filling pairs wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing you to customize each bite to your preference. Consider serving them with a classic cheese dip for an extra layer of cheesy goodness, a cool and creamy ranch dressing, a zesty mayo-ketchup blend (often called “fry sauce”), a rich marinara sauce, or even a sweet and tangy yum yum sauce. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite condiments; their robust flavor profile makes them adaptable to many delicious accompaniments!
Explore More Delicious Egg Roll Recipes
If you loved these Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, you’re in for a treat! We have a variety of other creative and equally delicious egg roll recipes that are perfect for any occasion, from appetizers to unique meal ideas. Expand your culinary horizons and discover new favorites with these tempting options:
- Crispy Shrimp Egg Rolls: A delightful seafood twist, perfect for lighter fare or an elegant appetizer.
- Savory Reuben Egg Rolls: All the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich – corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese – wrapped and fried to perfection.
- Fun Big Mac Egg Rolls: A playful, fast-food inspired egg roll that captures the essence of a beloved burger in a crispy package.
- Hearty Corned Beef Egg Rolls: Another comforting, meat-filled option, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you crave a satisfying snack.
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Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe
Experience the best of both worlds with these crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, packed with savory steak, peppers, onions, mushrooms, and gooey cheese. Perfect as a party appetizer or a fun dinner!
IMPORTANT – Please scroll up to read the Frequently Asked Questions and Expert Tips for more helpful information!
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Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Servings: 5 servings (10 egg rolls total)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 482
Author: Amanda Davis
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 Tablespoon garlic salt
- 1 Tablespoon paprika
- 1 Tablespoon onion powder
- ½ green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 4 ounces chopped mushrooms (such as baby bella or white button)
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 11 egg roll wrappers
- Oil for frying
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Large skillet
- Colander
- Mini food chopper
- Deep fryer (or a large deep-sided skillet)
- Candy thermometer (if not using a deep fryer)
Notes & Prep Tips
- If you don’t have a deep fryer, these egg rolls can be made in a large deep-sided skillet. Fill it about halfway with oil and heat to 375°F (190°C), using a candy thermometer to monitor.
- For the beef, flank steak is preferred, but thinly sliced ribeye, top round, sirloin, or even ground beef can be used.
- Any good melting cheese works – mozzarella, provolone, or quality deli American cheese are excellent choices.
- Ensure your ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking for a smoother process.
Instructions
- Place 1 pound flank steak (chopped into bite-sized pieces) into a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 2 Tablespoons of the olive oil, 1 Tablespoon garlic salt, 1 Tablespoon paprika, and 1 Tablespoon onion powder. Pour this mixture over the meat and stir to coat well.
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned meat and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink.
- Place the cooked meat into a colander to strain out any excess liquid.
- Return the skillet to the heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add ½ green bell pepper (chopped), ½ red bell pepper (chopped), ½ cup chopped onion, and 4 ounces chopped mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Place half of the cooked meat and vegetables into a food chopper. Pulse quickly 2-3 times to break them into smaller pieces, being careful not to turn them into a paste. (Alternatively, chop with a Chef’s knife).
- Combine the pulsed meat mixture with the remaining meat/veggie mixture to create a uniform filling.
- Lay out 11 egg roll wrappers onto a flat work surface, arranged like diamonds.
- To the center of each wrapper, add a heaping tablespoon of 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons of the prepared meat/vegetable mixture.
- Using a wet finger, moisten all edges of each egg roll wrapper to help with sealing.
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the two side corners. Roll the wrapper up tightly from the bottom, ensuring the filling is enclosed and the edges are sealed.
- Preheat your deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully fry the egg rolls for about 7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and float to the top.
- Drain the fried egg rolls on a wire rack set over paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.
Additional Expert Tips
- Oil Temperature is Key: Always maintain the oil temperature at 375°F (190°C) for optimal crispiness and to prevent greasy egg rolls. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Don’t Overstuff: While tempting, overstuffing egg rolls can make them difficult to roll and prone to breaking during frying. Stick to the recommended filling amount.
- Proper Sealing: Ensure all edges of the egg roll wrapper are well-moistened and tightly sealed. A good seal prevents the filling from leaking out and the wrapper from unraveling.
- Storage: Cooled egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Cooked egg rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results. Uncooked egg rolls can also be frozen; simply fry them from frozen or thaw first.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Serving: 1 serving (2 egg rolls)
Calories: 482 cal
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 34 g
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0.03 g
Cholesterol: 93 mg
Sodium: 1897 mg
Potassium: 552 mg
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 3 g
Vitamin A: 1417 IU
Vitamin C: 26 mg
Calcium: 277 mg
Iron: 3 mg
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full-sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.