Get ready for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that delivers all the comfort of a classic sandwich, in a seriously fun twist! The Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe brings together juicy, seasoned beef, the iconic tang of sautéed peppers and onions, plus a hearty blanket of gooey provolone cheese—no roll required. Whether you love game-day bites or crave a bold weeknight dinner, this dish is the kind of craveable crowd-pleaser that disappears in a flash. From the very first bite, you’ll be swooning over the irresistible blend of beefy richness and melty, cheesy goodness that makes Philly cheesesteak so legendary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe is in the balance of humble ingredients, each one crucial for creating those classic steakhouse flavors. There’s nothing complicated here—just a handful of savory, familiar staples that work in harmony to build taste, texture, and that signature cheesesteak color.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Go for 80/20 or 85/15 for a juicy, tender meatball with real depth of flavor.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): These keep the meatballs moist and tender, giving them the perfect bite.
- Egg (1): The essential binder that helps everything hold together—no crumbly meatballs here!
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds that subtle garlicky warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the meat mixture with an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Season generously for balanced, full-bodied taste.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the veggies and building up those delicious pan flavors.
- Yellow onion, finely diced (1 small): Brings the essential sweetness and texture of Philly’s signature topping.
- Green bell pepper, finely diced (1): A pop of color and a gentle, earthy bite to round out every mouthful.
- Shredded provolone cheese (1 cup): Classic for cheesesteak, it melts perfectly and adds rich, creamy flavor (sub in mozzarella or American cheese, if you’d like!).
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Just the right zing of umami to enhance the beefiness.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): A smoky, slightly sweet dash that nudges this recipe over the top.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Thickens up the sauce to coat the meatballs beautifully.
- Beef broth (1 cup): The backbone of your sauce, lending savory depth and lusciousness.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F—you want a good hot oven for that perfect golden finish. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and a generous pinch each of salt and black pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix just until everything is combined; don’t overwork it, or your meatballs could end up a little tough. Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and set them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready to bake up into juicy, flavorful bites.
Step 2: Bake the Meatballs
Pop your shaped meatballs in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You’re looking for a lovely browned exterior and a juicy, cooked-through center. Baking not only gives you easy hands-off cooking, but it also locks in the flavors and keeps the clean-up simple.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
While the meatballs are turning golden in the oven, heat olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium. Toss in your diced onion and green bell pepper. Let them sizzle, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and fragrant with just a little caramelization around the edges, about 5 to 7 minutes. These veggies form the heart of the cheesesteak experience—you’ll smell the magic happening!
Step 4: Build the Sauce
When your veggies are tender and sweet, sprinkle the flour right over them and stir for about a minute, letting it cook off that raw flavor. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly so the sauce stays smooth. Watch as it thickens into a rich, glossy gravy-like coating. This is where the Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe starts to come together—it’s all about that luscious, flavorful sauce!
Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to low and gently nestle your neatly baked meatballs into the sauce, turning them to ensure each bite is coated in savory goodness. Let them simmer quietly for just a couple of minutes, soaking up those classic flavors.
Step 6: Add the Cheese and Melt
Sprinkle your shredded provolone (or cheese of choice) generously over the top. Pop a lid on the skillet and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes. The cheese will melt into an oozy, irresistible blanket, cloaking each meatball like a true Philly cheesesteak should.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
A bright sprinkle of freshly diced green peppers or extra onions on top adds eye-catching color and a hint of fresh flavor. Chopped parsley is perfect for a pop of green, and a dash of black pepper or even a scatter of pickled peppers will brighten the whole platter. Serve these meatballs piping hot so the cheese stays gooey!
Side Dishes
These savory, cheesy orbs are delightful with classic sides. Pile them onto toasted hoagie rolls for a sandwich-style meal (seriously addictive), or nestle them over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for ultimate comfort food. You can even serve them alongside roasted veggies, a crisp salad, or classic French fries for a true Philly-style feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe into an unforgettable appetizer by skewering them onto toothpicks for cocktail parties or game days. Set out small bowls of extra sauce for dipping, or lay the meatballs over mini potato rolls for a fun slider bar. For a low-carb option, serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles or alongside roasted peppers—so many ways to enjoy!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any meatballs left (good luck!), stash them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days and make for wonderful next-day lunches. Keep the sauce and meatballs together for the juiciest results.
Freezing
Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs freeze very well! Let them cool completely, then arrange in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. If possible, wait to add the cheese until you’re ready to reheat for the dreamiest texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your meatballs and sauce gently over medium-low heat on the stove, covering the skillet to help the cheese melt smoothly. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot. If the sauce seems thick, splash in a little extra beef broth or water.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Try ground chicken, turkey, or even a pork-beef blend if you like. It will slightly change the flavor, but you’ll still have a tasty twist on the Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe.
What cheese is best for this recipe?
Provolone is traditional for that classic Philly cheesesteak flavor, but mozzarella melts beautifully and American cheese creates an ultra-creamy result. Feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the meatballs and prepare the pepper-onion sauce up to a day ahead. Refrigerate separately, then combine and melt the cheese just before serving for fresh, gooey deliciousness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it includes breadcrumbs and flour, both of which have gluten. Swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free flour blend to adapt the Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe for gluten-free diets.
What’s the best way to make this dish a full meal?
Pile the meatballs onto soft hoagie rolls with extra sauce for an epic sandwich, or serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta to soak up every drop of cheesy, savory goodness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up dinner with bold, nostalgic flavors and melty, irresistible cheese, the Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Whether you serve them at your next gathering or keep them in your weekly dinner rotation, these saucy, cheesy meatballs are pure comfort in every bite—so go ahead, treat yourself and dig in!
Print
Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs are a savory twist on the classic sandwich, featuring tender ground beef meatballs smothered in a cheesy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner or as a hearty party appetizer.
Ingredients
Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese or mozzarella
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Make the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs and bake for 15–18 minutes.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: While the meatballs bake, sauté onion and bell pepper in olive oil. Add flour, then beef broth, and simmer until thickened. Add baked meatballs, top with cheese, and melt.
- Serve: Garnish and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with hoagie rolls or over mashed potatoes.
- Try different cheeses like American or mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4 meatballs with sauce
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
