Milanese Philly Cheesesteak

Picture this: a delicious, crispy sandwich filled with perfectly seasoned, tender meat, sautéed peppers, onions, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crusty hoagie roll. Yes, my friends, I’m talking about the Milanese Philly Cheesesteak! This delightful twist on the classic cheesesteak takes inspiration from the flavors of Milan while keeping the heart and soul of Philadelphia’s beloved sandwich. It’s a fusion that brings together the best of both worlds, and trust me, you’ll want to make this for lunch or dinner!

Not only is this Milanese Philly Cheesesteak incredibly satisfying, but it’s also surprisingly simple to prepare. With some thinly sliced steak, a medley of colorful peppers, and a few pantry staples, you’ll have a gourmet sandwich that’s perfect for impressing friends or enjoying a cozy night in. Let’s dive into why this recipe should become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

The Milanese Philly Cheesesteak is a keeper for several reasons. First, it combines the rich flavors of tender meat with the crunch of fresh vegetables. Second, the use of panko breadcrumbs creates a delightful crunch that takes this sandwich to the next level. Third, it’s versatile! Whether you’re using steak, veal, chicken, or turkey, this recipe easily adapts to your preference. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser; everyone loves a good cheesesteak, and this variation will have them coming back for seconds.

Gather These Ingredients

Before we get started, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 thin slices of steak, veal, chicken, or turkey, pounded to 1/4 inch thickness
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 medium yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, stems and seeds discarded, thinly sliced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, stems and seeds discarded, thinly sliced
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, stems and seeds discarded, thinly sliced
• 4 ounces button or cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 slices Provolone or Swiss cheese
• Mayonnaise
• Grainy mustard
• 4 crusty hoagie rolls, lightly toasted

Hardware & Gadgets

To whip up this delicious Milanese Philly Cheesesteak, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Meat Mallet: Perfect for pounding your meat to the right thickness.
• Large Skillet: For sautéing your veggies and cooking the meat.
• Shallow Dishes: For the flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs.
• Spatula: To flip the meat and veggies with ease.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing your ingredients.

Make Milanese Philly Cheesesteak: A Simple Method

Ready to create your own Milanese Philly Cheesesteak? Just follow these straightforward steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Start by pounding your slices of steak, veal, chicken, or turkey to 1/4 inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and remain tender.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three shallow dishes, place the flour in one, the beaten egg in the second, and the panko breadcrumbs in the third. Season the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Meat

Dredge each piece of meat in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, followed by coating it thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs. The panko will give you that irresistible crunch!

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they soften and develop a bit of color, about 5-7 minutes. Toss in the mushrooms and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the veggies from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Meat

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Place the breaded meat in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each piece of meat to melt.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread a layer of mayonnaise and a bit of grainy mustard on the toasted hoagie rolls. Layer the sautéed vegetables on the bottom, followed by the cheesy meat. Top with the other half of the roll, and your Milanese Philly Cheesesteak is ready to devour!

Seasonal Serving Ideas

While the Milanese Philly Cheesesteak is delicious year-round, here are some seasonal twists to elevate your meal:

• Spring: Add fresh arugula or spinach for a peppery crunch.
• Summer: Serve with a side of homemade potato salad or coleslaw.
• Fall: Top with caramelized apples for a sweet and savory combination.
• Winter: Pair with a hearty vegetable soup for a comforting meal.

Little Things that Matter

When making the Milanese Philly Cheesesteak, keep these tips in mind for the best results:

• Choose the right bread: A crusty hoagie roll is essential for holding all the delicious fillings.
• Prep ahead: You can prepare the vegetables and breading station in advance to save time.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Allow the meat to brown properly for maximum flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding pickled jalapeños or sliced avocado for an extra kick.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to properly store and reheat your Milanese Philly Cheesesteak:

• Store: Place any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a skillet over medium heat, covering it with a lid to help the cheese melt.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.

What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work too. Just keep in mind that you might lose some of that crunchiness.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

While the Milanese Philly Cheesesteak is best served fresh, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time and assemble them right before serving.

What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Some delicious sides include sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad, or even a classic side of chips!

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might want to try your hand at these delicious dishes:

Bring It to the Table

Now that you have crafted your own Milanese Philly Cheesesteak, it’s time to gather friends and family around the table. Serve these sandwiches with a side of crispy fries and a cold beverage for the ultimate meal. Whether you’re enjoying a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a game day feast, this Milanese Philly Cheesesteak is sure to steal the show.

Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of this sandwich, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends! Enjoy every bite and relish the perfect blend of Milanese and Philly flavors. Happy cooking!