The first time I took a big bite of a Philly cheesesteak, it felt like a warm hug on a chilly day—the combination of tender steak, sautéed onions, and oozy cheese is downright comforting. But let’s take it up a notch, shall we? Imagine substituting that traditional cheese with the rich, zesty goodness of pimento cheese. This twist transforms a classic into a crowd-pleasing delight that’s perfect for any occasion.
If you, too, have grown weary of greasy fast food and crave something homemade yet easy, this pimento cheesesteak recipe will quickly become your go-to. The satisfying sizzle of onions and peppers caramelizing in the skillet will have your kitchen smelling heavenly. Plus, the delightfully melty pimento cheese just elevates the experience, making it an irresistible treat for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Let’s dive into crafting this delicious comfort food masterpiece that’s sure to impress!
Why will you love Pimento Cheesesteaks?
Unmatched Flavor: The irresistible blend of savory steak, sweet caramelized onions, and zesty pimento cheese creates a flavor explosion in each bite.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Comfort Food Reimagined: By elevating the classic cheesesteak with pimento cheese, you’re serving a unique twist that will wow your guests.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, everyone will be clamoring for seconds!
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on toasted hoagie rolls for that authentic touch, or try it stuffed in bell peppers for a low-carb alternative.
Transform your dining experience by whipping up these delightful pimento cheesesteaks, and enjoy a homemade meal that beats out any fast food option!
Pimento Cheesesteak Ingredients
• Prepare for a flavor journey with these pimento cheesesteak ingredients!
For the Filling
- Vegetable oil – A versatile oil that helps achieve that perfect sear on the steak and veggies.
- Yellow onion – Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor that beautifully enhances the overall dish.
- Kosher salt – Use for seasoning and elevating the natural flavors of the steak and vegetables; it’s essential for taste.
- Red bell pepper – This sweet addition provides color and crunch, complementing the savory components perfectly.
- Boneless ribeye steak – The star of the show, thinly sliced for a tender and juicy bite that’s key to a classic cheesesteak.
- Freshly ground black pepper – A touch of spice that rounds out the flavor and enhances the richness of the cheese.
- Pimento cheese – This creamy, flavorful cheese blend transforms the traditional cheesesteak into a delightful twist that’s hard to resist.
- Hoagie rolls – Toasted and split for an appetizing vessel that holds all the delicious fillings together.
Elevate your meals with these pimento cheesesteaks and create a comforting dish that everyone will adore!
How to Make Pimento Cheesesteaks
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Sauté the Onions: In a large cast-iron pan over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, cooking until the onion is tender and lightly charred, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
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Cook the Peppers: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Introduce the sliced red bell pepper and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are charred and softened, approximately 6 to 7 minutes. Place them on the plate with the onions.
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Brown the Steak: Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the skillet over high heat. Arrange half of the thinly sliced ribeye steak in a single layer, seasoning with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook undisturbed until browned, about 1 to 2 minutes. Flip and brown the other side for another minute. Transfer to the plate with the vegetables. Repeat with the remaining steak.
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Combine and Melt: Reduce heat to medium. Return the sautéed onions, pepper, and the first batch of steak to the skillet. Toss to combine. Spread the pimento cheese in a thin layer on top, covering the filling. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit until the cheese is melty, about 1 to 2 minutes.
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Assemble and Serve: Divide the cheesesteak filling among toasted hoagie rolls. Serve warm and enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
Optional: Garnish with extra pimento cheese on top for an even richer flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Pimento Cheesesteaks
Quality Meat Matters: Choose high-quality boneless ribeye steak for tender, juicy results. Avoid overcooking the steak to keep it flavorful and soft.
Heat Control: Maintain a steady medium-high heat while cooking vegetables for optimal caramelization. Too low of a heat won’t give them that enticing char.
Layering Flavors: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions and peppers to cook until they’re golden brown for the best depth of flavor in your pimento cheesesteaks.
Melt the Cheese: For a beautifully gooey experience, spread the pimento cheese on top and cover to let it melt properly. This step is essential for maximizing that creamy goodness!
Serve Fresh: Enjoy these cheesesteaks immediately after assembling. They taste best fresh, as the toasted rolls complement the melty cheese and savory meat perfectly.
Elevate your next meal by making these delightful pimento cheesesteaks, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Pimento Cheesesteak Variations
Customize your pimento cheesesteaks with these inspired twists that will excite your taste buds and make each bite unforgettable!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for a fiery touch that will make your taste buds dance.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute the ribeye with marinated portobello mushrooms and replace pimento cheese with cashew cream for a plant-based version.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in some mozzarella or provolone with the pimento cheese for an extra layer of creaminess that pulls everything together beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro into the filling for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked gouda in place of pimento cheese to add a rich, smoky essence that complements the savory steak perfectly.
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Savory Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and peppers to add a stealthy umami flavor that enhances the overall profile.
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Crunch Factor: Top your cheesesteaks with crispy fried onions for an added texture that brings a delightful crunch to each delicious bite.
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Low-Carb Option: Serve the filling in lettuce wraps instead of hoagie rolls for a lighter meal that’s just as satisfying.
Explore these variations and transform your pimento cheesesteaks into something uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Pimento Cheesesteaks are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to simplify busy weeknights! You can slice the ribeye steak and vegetables (onion and bell pepper) up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also prepare the pimento cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble. When it’s time to enjoy your Pimento Cheesesteaks, simply sauté the veggies and steak as directed and melt the pimento cheese over the top at the end. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort, just as satisfying as if you made it fresh!
What to Serve with Pimento Cheesesteaks?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the rich flavors of your pimento cheesesteaks.
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Crispy French Fries: The golden crispiness of freshly fried potatoes pairs perfectly with the gooey cheesesteak, adding a satisfying crunch.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and aromatic, these buttery mashed potatoes provide a luscious contrast to the savory richness of the cheesesteaks.
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Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw adds crunch and a burst of acidity, balancing the warmth of the cheesesteaks.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, these veggies enhance the meal with a medley of textures and flavors that beautifully complement the cheesesteaks.
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Pickles or Giardiniera: Their zesty bite cuts through the richness, making each bite of the cheesesteaks even more delightful.
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Craft Beer: A hoppy IPA or a cold lager elevates the flavors, making for a delightful pairing that enhances your dining experience.
For dessert, finish off with a Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae, an indulgent treat that rounds out your comfort food feast perfectly!
How to Store and Freeze Pimento Cheesesteaks
Fridge: Store leftover pimento cheesesteaks in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen pimento cheesesteaks, thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Avoid Soggy Bread: For crispy rolls, reheat the fillings separately and add them to the toasted hoagie rolls right before serving.
Pimento Cheesesteaks Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right steak for my Pimento Cheesesteaks?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for high-quality boneless ribeye steak. Look for cuts that are well-marbled with fat, as this will contribute to tenderness and juicy bites. Avoid steaks that appear tough or overly lean for optimal results!
What’s the best way to store leftover Pimento Cheesesteaks?
Very good question! Store leftover pimento cheesesteaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain the flavors and textures!
Can I freeze Pimento Cheesesteaks?
Absolutely! To freeze pimento cheesesteaks, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This method keeps them fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer.
How do I reheat frozen Pimento Cheesesteaks?
To reheat, first, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the wrapping and place the sandwich on a baking sheet; heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. For best results, reheat the filling separately to avoid soggy bread!
Can I make Pimento Cheesesteaks with dietary restrictions in mind?
For sure! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily swap out the ribeye for leaner cuts like turkey or chicken breast. For a vegetarian option, try mushrooms sautéed in the same way to replicate a meaty texture. Make sure to check the pimento cheese if allergies are a concern; many brands contain dairy and nuts, but there are delicious vegan alternatives available!
How do I know if my vegetables are ripe for Pimento Cheesesteaks?
Great question! When selecting your onions and bell peppers, look for firm, shiny skins without dark spots or wrinkles. The sweet bell pepper should feel heavy for its size, while onions should be dry and free from soft spots. This will ensure that your cheesesteak filling is bursting with vibrant flavors!
Mouthwatering Pimento Cheesesteaks That Wow Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large cast-iron pan over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, cooking until the onion is tender and lightly charred, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Introduce the sliced red bell pepper and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are charred and softened, approximately 6 to 7 minutes. Place them on the plate with the onions.
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the skillet over high heat. Arrange half of the thinly sliced ribeye steak in a single layer, seasoning with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook undisturbed until browned, about 1 to 2 minutes. Flip and brown the other side for another minute. Transfer to the plate with the vegetables. Repeat with the remaining steak.
- Reduce heat to medium. Return the sautéed onions, pepper, and the first batch of steak to the skillet. Toss to combine. Spread the pimento cheese in a thin layer on top, covering the filling. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit until the cheese is melty, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Divide the cheesesteak filling among toasted hoagie rolls. Serve warm and enjoy every mouthwatering bite!