Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are the perfect fusion of iconic Philly cheesesteak flavors and the satisfying crunch of egg rolls. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for parties, family gatherings, or just as a quick snack. Combining tender beef, gooey cheese, and caramelized onions wrapped in a crispy shell, these egg rolls deliver flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re new to the recipe or a seasoned cook looking for a fresh twist, this guide will provide everything you need to make the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls at home.
What Are Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls?
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are a modern twist on the beloved Philly cheesesteak sandwich, a staple from Philadelphia. By wrapping the classic ingredients of the cheesesteak—thinly sliced beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese in egg roll wrappers, this recipe creates a portable, crunchy snack that is as indulgent as it is versatile.
Unlike the traditional sandwich, which can sometimes be messy, these egg rolls are neatly packaged and easy to serve. They make an excellent appetizer for game days, potlucks, or even a unique dinner option.
For more ideas on transforming Philly cheesesteak flavors, check out this philly cheesesteak sliders recipe.
Ingredients for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
The secret to delicious Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls lies in the quality and balance of the ingredients. Each component plays a critical role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
Essential Ingredients
- Beef: Ribeye steak is the traditional choice because of its tenderness and marbling. However, flank steak, skirt steak, or even ground beef can work as alternatives.
- Cheese: Provolone is a classic option, but you can use mozzarella for stretchiness or Cheez Whiz for a more authentic Philly flavor.
- Vegetables: Sweet caramelized onions are a must, and adding sautéed green peppers enhances the flavor profile.
- Egg Roll Wrappers: Available in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, these are key to the crunchy exterior.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce to elevate the flavors.
Optional Add-Ins
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can add depth and an earthy flavor to the filling.
- Hot Peppers: Diced jalapeños or banana peppers for a spicy kick.
- Spinach or Kale: For a healthy twist, incorporate sautéed greens into the filling.
For advice on selecting the best cheese, explore what cheese is best for cheesesteak.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Cook the Beef
Slice your ribeye or preferred cut of beef into thin strips. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the skillet is hot, toss in the beef and let it cook until evenly browned, stirring occasionally to ensure all sides are seared. As the beef cooks, season it with a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder to enhance its flavor.
Caramelize the Onions
Lower the heat to medium-low and use the same skillet to cook your sliced onions. Drizzle a small amount of oil into the pan, then stir the onions occasionally as they soften. Allow 15–20 minutes for them to caramelize, transforming into a sweet, golden-brown addition to your filling. This process adds a deep, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the seasoned beef.
Combine Ingredients
When the onions are caramelized, mix them with the cooked beef in the skillet. Optional sautéed peppers can be added at this stage for extra texture and flavor. Finally, stir in your chosen cheese and let it melt completely, creating a creamy and cohesive filling that’s ready for wrapping.
Step 2: Wrap the Egg Rolls
- Begin by laying an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface, angling it into a diamond shape.
- Place 2–3 tablespoons of the prepared filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Fold the bottom corner upward over the filling, then bring the left and right corners toward the center. Roll the wrapper tightly toward the top corner to form a snug roll. Seal the edges using a dab of water or a cornstarch slurry to ensure they stay intact during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Egg Rolls
Deep Fry
Fill a deep pot with enough oil to completely submerge the egg rolls, and heat it to 375°F. Fry the rolls in small batches, turning them occasionally until they develop a golden-brown and crispy exterior. This process usually takes 3–4 minutes per batch. Once fried, transfer the egg rolls to a wire rack to allow any excess oil to drain.
Bake
To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly brush them with oil. Bake for 12–15 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through for even browning and crispness.
Air Fry
For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking oil, then arrange them in a single layer inside the basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Once they’re golden brown, they’re ready to serve.
Tips for Success
Making perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls requires some attention to detail. Whether you’re frying, baking, or air frying, following these tips can help you achieve the best flavor, texture, and presentation.
Preventing Sogginess
- Drain excess liquid from the beef and vegetable mixture before assembling the egg rolls. Excess moisture can make the wrappers soggy and prone to tearing, especially during frying.
- Avoid overfilling the wrappers, as this can cause leaks or bursting during cooking. Stick to about 2–3 tablespoons of filling per roll for a balanced and tidy result.
- Keep the egg roll wrappers moist while you work by covering them with a damp paper towel. This prevents them from drying out and cracking.
Achieving the Perfect Crunch
- Always ensure your frying oil is at the correct temperature, ideally 375°F. Too cool, and the rolls absorb oil, becoming greasy; too hot, and they may burn before the filling heats through.
- If baking or air frying, brush or spray the wrappers generously with oil to replicate the crispness of frying. Don’t skip flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning on all sides.
- Let fried egg rolls cool on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents the trapped steam from softening the crispy exterior.
Flavor Enhancements
- Add a dash of Worcestershire or soy sauce to the beef for extra umami. These sauces enhance the savory depth of the filling and pair perfectly with the caramelized onions.
- Experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite flavor combinations. Provolone, mozzarella, or a mix of sharp cheddar and mild cheeses can provide a unique twist.
- Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to the beef mixture for a subtle, smoky flavor.
With these tips, your Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls will not only be crispy and flavorful but also visually impressive, perfect for serving at any occasion!
Creative Variations
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are highly versatile, allowing for endless creativity. Here are some variations to try:
Chicken Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Substitute the beef with thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter version. Pair with provolone or Swiss cheese for a classic pairing.
Vegetarian Option
Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat alternative. Add extra cheese for richness.
Spicy Twist
Incorporate jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce into the filling for a kick of heat. Serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
Dipping Sauces and Pairings
A delicious dipping sauce can take your Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls to the next level. Here are some ideas:
- Cheese Sauce: Warm, melted cheese is a classic choice.
- Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a tangy, spicy flavor.
- Ranch Dressing: A cooling dip that balances the richness of the filling.
- Marinara Sauce: Perfect for an Italian-inspired twist.
Discover more pairing ideas by exploring the best thing to dip philly cheesesteak.
Nutritional Insights
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are indulgent but can be modified for a healthier twist:
- Baking Instead of Frying: Significantly reduces calorie and fat content.
- Using Lean Meat: Opt for ground turkey or chicken to cut down on fat.
- Whole-Grain Wrappers: Add fiber and nutrients with whole-grain options.
On average, each roll contains about 200 calories, depending on the filling and cooking method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Assemble the egg rolls and freeze them before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, fry or bake them directly from frozen, no need to thaw. For more tips on prepping egg rolls in advance, visit this helpful discussion on freezing egg rolls.
Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To restore their crispness, reheat them in the oven or air fryer.
Absolutely! Use gluten-free egg roll wrappers, and ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free.
Yes, substitute plant-based ground beef, vegan cheese, and egg-free wrappers to create a fully vegan version.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are a delightful fusion of classic Philly flavors and crunchy egg roll goodness. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry, these rolls are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Their versatility allows for endless variations, making them suitable for everyone, from meat lovers to vegetarians.
With easy preparation and ingredients that are widely available, there’s no reason not to try this recipe today. Experience the irresistible combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and crispy wrappers—your taste buds will thank you!