Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Quesadillas with Provolone and Onions: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mash-Up
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, melty cheese, and crave-worthy comfort food, then you’re in for an irresistible treat. These Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Quesadillas with Provolone and Onions are the perfect fusion of two culinary classics: the beloved Philly cheesesteak and the crispy, golden quesadilla. Imagine thinly sliced ribeye steak, caramelized onions, sweet bell peppers, and a blend of gooey cheeses, all wrapped up in a warm, buttery tortilla. Yes, it’s as good as it sounds.
This recipe is for anyone who loves hearty, satisfying meals that don’t take hours to prepare but taste like they did. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual game night, or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Let’s dive right in and get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for these Philly Cheesesteak Quesadillas:
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Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in about 30 minutes!
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Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the cheesy, meaty goodness.
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Versatile: Use whatever peppers or cheese you have on hand.
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Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a casual lunch, or a fun dinner, this recipe fits the bill.
Not only is it straightforward, but it’s also customizable — which means you can make it your own every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s go over the full list of ingredients to make sure you’re ready to cook:
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1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak (or sirloin as a tasty alternative)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 large onion, thinly sliced
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1 bell pepper (green, red, or yellow), thinly sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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6-8 flour tortillas (8-inch size)
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8 slices provolone cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 tablespoons butter (for frying quesadillas)
Kitchen Equipment
To make these quesadillas effortlessly, you’ll need:
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Large skillet or frying pan
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Spatula or tongs
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Cheese grater (if shredding mozzarella fresh)
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Measuring spoons
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Plate for assembling quesadillas
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Heat olive oil in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Add your thinly sliced ribeye, seasoning it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and cooked through. Set the steak aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking them for 5–7 minutes over medium heat. Stir frequently until the onions are caramelized and the peppers are tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Steak and Vegetables
Return the steak to the skillet. Add Worcestershire sauce and give it a good stir to combine all those flavorful ingredients. Let it cook together for another 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Quesadillas
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place two slices of provolone cheese evenly on the tortilla. Spoon a generous helping of the steak and veggie mixture on top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese for that extra gooey factor. Top with another tortilla and press gently.
Step 5: Cook the Quesadillas
Melt 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the assembled quesadilla in the skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is melted and dreamy.
Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Remove the cooked quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. This helps the cheese set slightly for cleaner slices. Cut into wedges and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
Recipe Swaps
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Cheese: No provolone? Try Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
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Meat Substitute: Swap ribeye for sirloin, or even thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter option.
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Veggies: Add mushrooms for extra umami, or jalapeños if you like it spicy!
Shortcuts
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Buy pre-sliced beef for stir-fry to save prep time.
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Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience.
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If you’re short on time, you can skip caramelizing the onions fully and just sauté until tender.
Storage Tips
Have leftovers? Here’s how to keep them delicious:
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that golden exterior!
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Freeze: Wrap individual quesadilla slices in foil, place them in a freezer bag, and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
Perfect Pairings
Complete your meal with these tasty accompaniments:
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Dips: Serve with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or even spicy ranch.
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Sides: Pair with a fresh green salad, crispy fries, or roasted vegetables.
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Drinks: Enjoy with an ice-cold beer, a refreshing iced tea, or even a classic cola for that perfect diner-style combo.
FAQ
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and cook the quesadillas just before serving for the best texture.
Are they freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Assemble and cook the quesadillas, then freeze them once cooled. Reheat in a skillet or oven for a quick and satisfying meal.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Of course! While provolone and mozzarella are classic choices for their meltability and flavor, feel free to experiment with your favorites.
What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Ribeye is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, but sirloin or even flank steak will work well if you’re looking for alternatives.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the steak and load up on extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and extra bell peppers. You’ll still get a fantastic, cheesy result.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — your ultimate guide to making Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Quesadillas with Provolone and Onions. It’s a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, packed with layers of flavor, melty cheese, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, these quesadillas are sure to steal the spotlight at your next meal.
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Happy cooking!