Baked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Introduction

Baked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are a delicious, bite-sized twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. These sliders feature tender, thinly sliced beef, melty cheese, sautéed onions and peppers, and a buttery, toasted bun, all baked to perfection. They’re perfect for parties, game day snacks, or a casual dinner. The combination of flavors in a convenient slider form makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser that’s both fun to eat and easy to make.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The Philly cheesesteak sandwich originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the early 20th century, typically made with thin slices of beef, sautéed onions, and cheese served on a long roll. It’s become a symbol of American street food, loved for its simplicity and rich flavors. Baked sliders are a modern adaptation that capitalizes on the beloved ingredients of the original cheesesteak but turns them into a convenient, shareable meal or appetizer. These sliders merge the classic taste of Philly cheesesteaks with the ease of preparation that appeals to home cooks today.

Ingredients (for 12 Sliders)

– 1 pound thinly sliced steak (ribeye, sirloin, or deli-style roast beef)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
– 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
– 6-8 slices provolone cheese (or 1 ½ cups shredded)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional for topping)

Optional Additions

– Mushrooms sautéed with onions and peppers for added texture
– A drizzle of cheese sauce or a few slices of American cheese for extra cheesiness
– Hot sauce or banana peppers for a spicy kick
– Sub in Swiss cheese or cheddar for a flavor variation
– Add horseradish mayo or garlic aioli as a spread for the buns

Tips for Success

1. **Thinly slice the steak**: For the best texture, ensure the beef is thinly sliced. Partially freezing the steak before slicing can help achieve this.
2. **Pre-toast the buns**: Lightly toasting the buns before assembling the sliders helps them hold up to the juicy filling without becoming soggy.
3. **Evenly distribute the filling**: When layering the steak, onions, and peppers, spread them evenly across the buns to ensure each slider gets a full bite of flavor.
4. **Cover with foil when baking**: Covering the sliders while baking ensures that the buns stay soft and the cheese melts perfectly.
5. **Don’t overcook**: Keep an eye on the sliders while baking to avoid drying out the steak or over-toasting the buns.