There’s a certain joy that comes from surprising my taste buds with familiar flavors, and that’s exactly what these Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls deliver. One evening, while looking for a creative appetizer that would impress friends at our game night, I stumbled upon this culinary gem. Imagine the savory aroma of sautéed onions and peppers sizzling in olive oil, mingling with tender beef and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy shell.
These bite-sized delights are perfect for those evenings when the thought of fast food makes you cringe, yet you want something satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, these egg rolls make for a fun twist on the classic cheesesteak. Better yet, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus less on cooking and more on enjoying great company. Let’s dive into the recipe and transform your weeknight dinner into an unforgettable experience!
Why will you love Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with savory beef, gooey cheese, and fresh veggies.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip these up in no time!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or game nights, everyone will rave about these tasty treats.
Versatile Filling: Customize with your favorite proteins or veggies; the options are endless!
Perfect Snack: Ideal for when fast food is too tempting, yet you crave something homemade and delicious.
Make Ahead: Prep the filling in advance for a quick and easy snack option anytime.
Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Ingredients
For the Filling
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and aids in sautéing vegetables.
- Onions – Provide sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Green Bell Pepper – Adds crunch and freshness.
- Mushrooms (Optional) – Contribute umami flavor and moisture.
- Ribeye Steak/Ground Beef – The primary protein source, offering a rich, savory taste; substitute with chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat alternatives for variation.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor.
- Garlic Powder – Adds aromatic depth to the filling.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Infuses savory depth and umami flavor.
- Shredded Cheese – Melts to create a gooey, rich filling; use cheddar or provolone for a classic taste.
- Egg Roll Wrappers – Encapsulate the filling and create the crispy outer layer.
For Dipping Sauces
- Cheese Sauce – Enhances the creamy texture and flavor experience.
- Ranch Dressing – A cooling dip that pairs well with the savory filling.
- Spicy Mayo – Adds a kick for those who like a little heat with their crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls.
How to Make Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
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Heat Oil: In a skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Let it shimmer slightly before adding your veggies to ensure they sauté perfectly.
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Sauté Veggies: Add finely diced onions, green bell pepper, and optional mushrooms to the skillet. Stir them around until they are fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Cook Beef: Mix in ribeye steak or ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook the meat until browned and tender, roughly 5-7 minutes, ensuring everything is lovely and flavorful.
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Melt Cheese: Remove your skillet from heat, drain any excess liquid, and stir in the shredded cheese, letting it melt into the mixture until creamy and delicious.
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Prepare Wrappers: Place an egg roll wrapper on a surface with one corner facing you. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of your tasty filling into the center—don’t overspill!
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Roll Egg Rolls: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly to seal, using a little water on the edges to ensure they stick.
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Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the egg rolls in batches for 3-4 minutes each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crisp.
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Drain and Serve: Remove the egg rolls and drain them on paper towels. Serve them hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauces for an irresistible snack experience.
Optional: Serve with spicy mayo for an extra punch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the egg rolls in batches to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their crispiness. Overcrowding can lead to soggy rolls.
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Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the edges of the egg rolls with water to prevent the filling from leaking during frying. A tight roll is key!
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Customize Fillings: Feel free to swap out ribeye steak for ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based options for a mix of flavors in your crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls.
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Control Oil Temperature: Use a cooking thermometer to ensure your oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying. This helps achieve that perfect golden brown color.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it. You can wrap and fry the egg rolls when you’re ready for a quick snack or appetizer!
Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your egg rolls to suit your taste buds!
- Low-Carb: Substitute egg roll wrappers with thin slices of zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh, veggie-packed version.
- Spicy Kick: Add finely diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a delightful heat that complements the savory beef.
- Mini Versions: Use wonton wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers for a bite-sized treat perfect for parties or as snacks.
- Cheese Swap: Switch out cheddar for pepper jack or gouda to introduce a new flavor dimension that your palate will adore.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a rich, umami-packed filling.
The variations don’t stop here. You can mix and match ingredients to create your perfect version. Enjoy experimenting!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze uncooked egg rolls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat cooked egg rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Preparation Tip: You can prepare and freeze the filling for your crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, making it easy to wrap and fry them as needed.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade snacks with minimal effort! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply sauté the veggies and beef, then stir in the cheese. Once cooled, refrigerate the filling in an airtight container. For assembly, lay out the egg roll wrappers, add the chilled filling, and roll them up. When you’re ready to serve, just fry or bake them until golden brown for that perfect crunch. This method keeps the egg rolls just as delicious while saving invaluable time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls?
Elevate your dining experience with vibrant sides that beautifully complement the mouthwatering flavors of these savory snacks.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy slaw brings brightness and refreshing contrast to the rich, crispiness of your egg rolls.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The slight sweetness paired with a hint of salt creates a delightful balance to the savory cheesesteak explosion.
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Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: These sautéed green beans add a flavorful crunch and a hint of earthiness that complements the dish perfectly.
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Mediterranean Salad: With its fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and zingy feta, this salad introduces a light and zesty note, enhancing the overall meal.
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Homemade Dipping Sauces: Offering a variety of sauces like spicy mayo, ranch, or zesty cheese sauce can take your egg rolls to new flavorful heights.
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Craft Beer: A cold, hoppy IPA or a light lager pairs well with the richness of the egg rolls, enhancing the savory experience.
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Fruit Palate Cleanser: A fresh fruit salad featuring berries and citrus can provide a refreshing counterbalance, making each bite of egg roll feel exciting anew.
Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right vegetables?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables for your Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, look for fresh produce. Onions should be firm and without dark spots, while bell peppers should be vibrant and crisp. Opt for mushrooms that are smooth and plump, avoiding any with blemishes. Fresh ingredients will lend the best flavor and texture to your filling.
What’s the best way to store leftover egg rolls?
You can store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method revives their golden crunch while warming through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Can I freeze egg rolls?
The more the merrier! To freeze your Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, first, lay them out on a baking sheet so they aren’t touching. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, you can fry them from frozen—just add an extra minute to the frying time for a perfect result!
What if my egg rolls are not crispy?
If your egg rolls aren’t turning out crispy, a couple of factors may be at play. Ensure that the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) before frying. Frying in batches rather than overcrowding the pan is crucial—this allows them to cook evenly. Lastly, make sure to seal the edges tightly; this prevents moisture from escaping during cooking.
Are these egg rolls safe for gluten allergies?
Great question! To make your Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls gluten-free, simply use gluten-free egg roll wrappers. These can often be found at specialty grocery stores or the gluten-free aisle. Always check ingredient labels for any hidden gluten sources in sauces or spices used in your filling as well.
Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for a day or two. I often make the filling, let it cool, then wrap the egg rolls later. For an even quicker option, assemble the egg rolls but freeze them instead. You can fry them straight from frozen whenever you feel like a snack!
Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls for the Perfect Snack Attack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Let it shimmer slightly before adding your veggies.
- Add finely diced onions, green bell pepper, and optional mushrooms to the skillet. Stir them until they are fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in ribeye steak or ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until browned and tender, roughly 5-7 minutes.
- Remove skillet from heat, drain excess liquid, and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Place an egg roll wrapper on a surface with one corner facing you. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of filling into the center.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly to seal using water on the edges.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches for 3-4 minutes each side, until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove egg rolls and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.