A sizzling and savory twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, this Black Stone version brings bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Grilled to perfection on a flat top, this sandwich is packed with thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed peppers, onions, and melty provolone, all tucked into a toasted hoagie roll.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 8 slices provolone cheese
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Optional: mayonnaise for spreading

Directions

1. Preheat the Black Stone griddle to medium-high heat.
2. Add vegetable oil to the griddle, then sauté the sliced onions and bell peppers until soft and lightly caramelized, about 6–8 minutes. Move to the side of the griddle.
3. Add butter to the hot surface and place ribeye slices on top.
4. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until browned and just cooked through, about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Mix the cooked vegetables with the steak on the griddle.
6. Divide the mixture into 4 portions and top each with 2 slices of provolone cheese. Let melt.
7. Toast hoagie rolls on the griddle until golden brown.
8. Optionally spread mayo on the rolls, then fill each with a portion of the cheesesteak mixture.
9. Serve hot and enjoy.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 650 per sandwich
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg

History and Origin of the Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved American sandwich that originated in Philadelphia in the early 20th century. It started as a simple meal made by combining thinly sliced beef on a roll, which was then enhanced over time with the addition of cheese and sautéed onions. The Black Stone Philly Cheesesteak is a modern adaptation of this classic, inspired by the use of flat-top grills known as Black Stones, popular for their even heat and versatility in cooking.

The Role of the Black Stone Griddle

Using a Black Stone griddle to prepare this sandwich adds a unique element. The flat cooking surface provides consistent heat and space to cook both the meat and vegetables simultaneously, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully. The griddle’s large surface area ensures the ribeye slices cook quickly without drying out, while the vegetables develop a perfect caramelization.

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

The ribeye is the preferred cut for this sandwich due to its marbling and tenderness. The fat content in ribeye melts during cooking, adding rich flavor and juiciness to the steak. Slicing it thinly ensures the meat cooks evenly and stays tender, giving the sandwich its signature texture.

Importance of Thin Slicing

Thin slicing of the beef allows for quick cooking and easier eating. It also ensures every bite has a good balance of meat and melted cheese. The thin strips absorb seasoning better and blend well with the sautéed peppers and onions, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Sautéed Vegetables and Flavor Development

Onions and bell peppers add sweetness and a slight crunch to the sandwich, balancing the richness of the steak and cheese. Cooking these vegetables slowly on the griddle caramelizes their natural sugars, deepening their flavor and providing a delicious contrast to the savory meat.

Cheese Selection and Melting

Provolone cheese is commonly used in the Black Stone Philly Cheesesteak for its mild, slightly tangy taste and excellent melting qualities. When placed on the hot steak and vegetable mixture, it melts evenly, creating a creamy layer that binds the ingredients together.

The Hoagie Roll: Why It Matters

The hoagie roll is more than just a vessel; it impacts the overall eating experience. A soft yet sturdy roll with a slight chewiness is essential to hold all the filling without falling apart. Toasting the roll on the griddle adds flavor and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Seasoning: Simple but Effective

The use of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder enhances the natural flavors of the steak without overpowering it. These basic seasonings allow the quality of the beef and freshness of the vegetables to shine through while providing a balanced taste.

Cooking Techniques on the Griddle

The technique of cooking the vegetables first and then adding the steak ensures both components reach optimal doneness. Moving the vegetables to the side while cooking the steak allows for multitasking and flavor blending. This method also helps prevent overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of searing.

Customizing the Sandwich

Though the classic Black Stone Philly Cheesesteak recipe is delicious on its own, it can be personalized. Some enjoy adding mushrooms, jalapeños, or even switching the cheese to American or Cheez Whiz for a different twist. Condiments like mayonnaise or hot sauce can also be added to taste.

Cultural Significance

The Philly cheesesteak is more than food; it’s a cultural icon representing Philadelphia’s working-class roots and culinary heritage. The Black Stone variation brings a contemporary flair while honoring the tradition of the original sandwich.

Nutrition Considerations

While rich and satisfying, this sandwich is also high in calories and fat, making it an indulgent meal. For those mindful of nutrition, adjustments such as using leaner cuts of beef or whole-grain rolls can be considered without sacrificing too much flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

A Black Stone Philly Cheesesteak pairs wonderfully with classic sides like French fries, onion rings, or a crisp salad to balance the richness. For drinks, a cold soda or craft beer complements the hearty flavors well.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving the sandwich hot and fresh off the griddle is key to enjoying the best flavor and texture. Cutting it diagonally can make it easier to eat and visually appealing. Wrapping the sandwich in parchment paper or foil keeps it warm and convenient for takeout or casual dining.

Variations Across the U.S.

Different regions have put their own spin on the cheesesteak, with variations in bread type, cheese choice, and added ingredients. The Black Stone version stands out for its method of preparation and focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients cooked on a flat top grill.

The Experience of Eating a Philly Cheesesteak

Part of the enjoyment comes from the texture contrasts—the tender meat, melted cheese, crunchy vegetables, and toasted roll all come together in a satisfying bite. The hearty sandwich is often a comfort food favorite that evokes feelings of indulgence and satisfaction.

The Rise of Flat Top Cooking at Home

Flat top griddles like the Black Stone have become popular in home kitchens, allowing people to recreate restaurant-quality sandwiches. Their versatility means you can cook everything from breakfast to dinner on one surface, making them a convenient and fun tool.

Tips for Perfecting the Sandwich

Key tips include not overcrowding the griddle, using high heat for searing, and letting the cheese melt fully before assembling. Also, resting the steak for a minute after cooking helps keep it juicy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the steak can lead to dryness, and skipping the toasting of the hoagie roll can result in a soggy sandwich. Using too much oil can also make the sandwich greasy rather than flavorful.

Conclusion

The Black Stone Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is a delicious evolution of a classic American favorite. Its success lies in the quality of ingredients, thoughtful preparation on the flat top griddle, and balance of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, this sandwich offers a satisfying culinary experience that honors tradition while embracing modern cooking methods. For anyone looking to explore iconic sandwiches with a fresh twist, the Black Stone Philly Cheesesteak is a must-try.