The Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla combines classic elements of a traditional cheesesteak with the simplicity of a quesadilla. This dish features ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, all melted together with provolone cheese. It offers a flavorful and satisfying meal option. This recipe is straightforward and uses common ingredients, making it accessible for many home cooks. Next, let’s explore the history behind this unique fusion dish and how it became popular.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Why should anyone consider making a Philly cheesesteak quesadilla? This recipe combines the classic flavors of a traditional cheesesteak with the convenience of a quesadilla.
It offers a delicious, cheesy filling of seasoned steak and sautéed vegetables, all packed into a crispy tortilla. The preparation is straightforward, requiring essential kitchen tools like a skillet and a sharp knife.
Additionally, the cooking process allows for creativity, as various ingredients can be adjusted to personal taste. With quick cooking times and easy assembly, this dish makes for a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by family and friends alike, appealing to many palates.
History
Although the exact origins of the Philly cheesesteak are debated, it is widely recognized as a beloved sandwich that emerged in Philadelphia during the early 20th century.
Many believe it was created by Pat and Harry Olivieri, who first made it as a hot dog stand sandwich. The combination of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and cheese quickly gained popularity.
Over the years, variations have developed, but the core elements remain the same.
Today, the cheesesteak is an iconic representation of Philadelphia’s culinary scene, often enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, and has inspired numerous adaptations, including the quesadilla version.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- Ribeye steak
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Onions
- Bell peppers
- Provolone cheese
- Tortillas
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak: Begin by slicing the ribeye steak against the grain into thin strips. Season the steak with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste, ensuring it is well coated.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes or until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, increase the heat to high and add the seasoned steak slices. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through. Combine the steak with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet.
- Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay out tortillas on a clean surface. Distribute the steak and vegetable mixture evenly over half of each tortilla. Top generously with shredded provolone cheese, then fold the tortillas over to create a half-moon shape.
- Cook the Quesadillas: Heat the skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the filled quesadillas for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the cheese has melted. Use a spatula to flip them carefully.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the quesadillas from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Cut them into wedges for serving, and enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
For the best results, remember to choose a high-quality ribeye steak for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Ensure your skillet is hot enough to get a perfect sear on the steak, which prevents it from steaming and keeps it juicy.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses or add extra toppings like jalapeños or mushrooms to personalize your quesadilla. Enjoy your cooking!
Final Thoughts
Creating a delicious Philly cheesesteak quesadilla offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the classic elements of a traditional cheesesteak with the convenience of a quesadilla.
This recipe allows for flexibility, encouraging cooks to experiment with different meats, vegetables, and cheeses. By following the outlined steps, anyone can achieve a satisfying meal that pleases a variety of taste preferences.
Serving with complementary sides and dips enhances the overall experience. With simple techniques and accessible ingredients, this dish can be prepared for casual dinners or gatherings.
Ultimately, the Philly cheesesteak quesadilla stands out as a versatile and enjoyable option for many occasions.
FAQ
Many people may have questions about preparing a Philly cheesesteak quesadilla after learning how to make it. Common inquiries include the best type of steak to use, which is often ribeye, due to its flavor and tenderness.
Others may wonder about cooking methods; using high heat ensures a perfect sear. For those wanting to adjust the recipe, alternatives like chicken or vegetables can be substituted.
Additionally, people often ask about serving suggestions, such as pairing with fries or dipping sauces like garlic aioli.
Lastly, resting the cooked steak is crucial for retaining juices, enhancing the overall dish.

Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- Ribeye steak
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Onions
- Bell peppers
- Provolone cheese
- Tortillas
Instructions
- Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak: Begin by slicing the ribeye steak against the grain into thin strips. Season the steak with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste, ensuring it is well coated.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes or until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, increase the heat to high and add the seasoned steak slices. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through. Combine the steak with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet.
- Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay out tortillas on a clean surface. Distribute the steak and vegetable mixture evenly over half of each tortilla. Top generously with shredded provolone cheese, then fold the tortillas over to create a half-moon shape.
- Cook the Quesadillas: Heat the skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the filled quesadillas for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the cheese has melted. Use a spatula to flip them carefully.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the quesadillas from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Cut them into wedges for serving, and enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
- For the best results, remember to choose a high-quality ribeye steak for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Ensure your skillet is hot enough to get a perfect sear on the steak, which prevents it from steaming and keeps it juicy.
- Don't hesitate to experiment with different cheeses or add extra toppings like jalapeños or mushrooms to personalize your quesadilla. Enjoy your cooking!