Cheesesteak pizza brilliantly combines two beloved comfort foods: Philadelphia’s iconic cheesesteak sandwich and traditional Italian pizza. This fusion creation features the classic elements of a cheesesteak—thinly sliced beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese—atop a pizza crust instead of a hoagie roll. What began as a creative experiment in pizzerias has evolved into a popular menu item across America, offering the perfect balance of familiar flavors in an exciting new format that satisfies both pizza enthusiasts and cheesesteak purists alike.
How to Cook Cheesesteak Pizza
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough: Preheat your oven to 475°F. Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface and transfer to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Brush with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Cook the toppings: Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and peppers, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Push vegetables to one side, add the steak to the pan, and cook until just browned, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble and bake: Spread the steak, onions, and peppers evenly over the pizza dough. Top with provolone, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning if desired.
- Bake: Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Store
Cheesesteak pizza can be stored properly to maintain its flavor and texture for later enjoyment:
- Refrigeration: Allow leftover pizza to cool completely, then place slices in an airtight container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place cooled slices on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Transfer frozen slices to freezer bags or wrap in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Frozen pizza will maintain quality for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: For the best texture, reheat refrigerated pizza in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes. Frozen pizza can be reheated directly from frozen at 375°F for 12-15 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it tends to make the crust soggy.
Variations Cheesesteak Pizza
Classic Philadelphia Style
Use thinly sliced ribeye steak with Cheez Whiz or provolone, caramelized onions, and a thin crust for an authentic Philadelphia taste experience.
Mushroom Cheesesteak Pizza
Add sautéed mushrooms along with the traditional ingredients for an earthy flavor profile that complements the savory steak perfectly.
Chicken Cheesesteak Pizza
Substitute thinly sliced chicken breast for the beef while keeping all other components the same for a lighter alternative.
Spicy Cheesesteak Pizza
Add sliced jalapeños, hot cherry peppers, or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy some heat with their meal.
White Cheesesteak Pizza
Use garlic-infused olive oil instead of tomato sauce, then top with the classic cheesesteak ingredients for a delicious variation.
Conclusion
Cheesesteak pizza represents culinary innovation at its finest—taking familiar comfort foods and reimagining them in exciting new ways. Whether you’re serving it at a game day gathering, family dinner, or just treating yourself to a special meal, this fusion dish delivers satisfaction with every bite. The versatility of cheesesteak pizza also means there’s a version for every taste preference, from traditional Philadelphia-style to creative adaptations with different proteins and flavor profiles. Give this recipe a try, and you might find it becomes a regular part of your pizza rotation!
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