These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are the perfect fusion of crispy egg roll wrappers filled with savory, cheesy steak and veggies. They’re a delicious handheld snack or appetizer that will impress everyone at your next gathering. Plus, they’re simple to make and incredibly flavorful, combining the classic Philly cheesesteak ingredients with the crunch of a fried egg roll.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1½ tablespoons butter
- 1 chopped green bell pepper
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 pound sliced or chopped boneless rib-eye steak
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Oil, to fry
- Ranch dressing, for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
- Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1½ tablespoons of butter.
- Step 2: Add the chopped onion and chopped green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Step 3: Add the sliced or chopped rib-eye steak to the skillet, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook the steak until browned and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls:
- Step 1: Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place a slice of provolone cheese in the center of the wrapper.
- Step 2: Add about 2 tablespoons of the cooked steak, onion, and bell pepper mixture on top of the cheese.
- Step 3: To fold the egg roll, start by folding the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling. Then fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the edge with a little water to ensure the egg roll stays closed while frying.
- Step 4: Repeat the process with the remaining egg roll wrappers and filling.
3. Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Step 1: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. The oil should reach 350°F (180°C) for optimal frying.
- Step 2: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the egg rolls in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy all over.
- Step 3: Remove the egg rolls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Serve:
- Step 1: Let the egg rolls cool slightly before serving.
- Step 2: Serve with ranch dressing or any dipping sauce of your choice for a fun twist.
Tips for Success:
- Egg Roll Wrappers: Be careful not to overfill the wrappers to prevent tearing. Folding tightly and sealing the edges with water will ensure they hold up well during frying.
- Cooking Steak: Slicing the steak thinly helps it cook quickly and evenly. If using thicker cuts, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Cheese Substitution: While provolone is the classic choice for a Philly cheesesteak, you can also use American cheese, cheddar, or even mozzarella for a slightly different flavor.
- Baking Option: If you prefer a lighter option, you can bake the egg rolls instead of frying. Place them on a greased baking sheet, brush with a little oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the steak for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. The same delicious flavors will shine through, but in a vegetarian-friendly form.
- Add Jalapeños: For a spicier version, add sliced jalapeños into the filling along with the steak and veggies.
- Cheese Whiz: If you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak with Cheese Whiz, you can use that as your cheese filling instead of provolone for an authentic flavor.
Storage and Reheating:
- Refrigerate: These egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 8-10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the egg rolls but don’t fry them. Freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be fried directly from frozen, just add a few more minutes to the cooking time.
These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls combine the best of two worlds—the savory flavors of a cheesesteak with the crispy texture of an egg roll. They’re a hit at parties, as appetizers, or even as a fun snack for game day. The richness of the steak and melted provolone inside the crunchy wrapper is pure comfort food bliss. Serve them with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce, and they’ll disappear in no time!