1 lb Ribeye Steak or Skirt Steak, very thinly sliced (partially freeze for easier slicing)
1 large Yellow Onion, thinly sliced
1 large Green Bell Pepper, thinly sliced
8 oz Sliced White Mushrooms (optional, for an authentic “wit” touch)
2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
½ teaspoon Black Pepper
2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil, divided
8 slices Provolone Cheese, torn into pieces (or 1 ½ cups shredded)
Salt, to taste
For Assembly & Frying:
1 package Egg Roll Wrappers (about 12-14 count)
1 small bowl of water (for sealing)
Vegetable or Peanut Oil, for frying (about 1-2 inches deep)
For Serving (The Essential Dips):
Cheese Whiz Sauce: Melt ½ cup Cheese Whiz with 2 tbsp milk.
Garlic Aioli: Mix ½ cup mayo with 2 minced garlic cloves and a squeeze of lemon.
Marinara Sauce, for dipping.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Crispy Masterpieces
Phase 1: Make the Legendary Filling
Slice & Sear: Pat your thinly sliced steak very dry. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add steak in a single layer, season with salt, and sear without moving for 1-2 minutes until browned. Toss and cook just until no pink remains. Remove to a bowl.
Caramelize the Veggies: In the same skillet, add remaining oil. Add onions, peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and soft, about 10-12 minutes.
Combine & Season: Return steak and any juices to the skillet with the veggies. Add Worcestershire, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss everything together and cook for 1 more minute. Taste and adjust salt.
Cool Completely: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. This is crucial—a hot filling will steam and make the wrapper soggy. Once cool, fold in the torn provolone cheese.
Phase 2: The Art of the Roll
Set Up Your Station: Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond orientation (point facing you). Keep the rest under a damp towel.
Fill: Place about 3 tablespoons of the cooled filling just below the center of the wrapper.
Fold & Roll: Fold the bottom point tightly over the filling. Fold in the left and right points. Brush the top point with water, then roll up tightly to seal, pressing firmly. Ensure it’s sealed well to prevent oil seepage.
Repeat: Continue with remaining wrappers and filling.
Phase 3: The Crispy Fry (or Bake)
Fry to Perfection: In a heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry egg rolls in batches of 3-4, turning occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until deep golden brown and crisp. Drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet—not on paper towels, which makes them soggy.
Baking Option: For a lighter version, brush rolls generously with oil and bake on a rack at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Pro-Tips for Egg Roll Excellence
Seal Tightly: A proper seal is your defense against burst rolls and greasy filling. Use enough water on the final flap.
Maintain Oil Temp: Use a thermometer. Oil that’s too cool makes greasy rolls; too hot burns the wrapper before the filling heats through.
The Freezer-Friendly Secret: After assembling, freeze egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cook time.
Cheese Choice: Provolone is classic, but Cheez Whiz can be mixed into the filling for the ultimate authentic, gooey experience.
Serving & Enjoying: The Perfect Party Bite
Let the egg rolls cool for 3-4 minutes before serving—the filling will be molten hot. Arrange on a platter with small bowls of the cheese sauce, garlic aioli, and marinara for dipping.
Pair with:
A cold, crisp lager or IPA.
A simple, tangy coleslaw to cut the richness.
The big game on TV or the glow of a fall bonfire.
Conclusion: Your New Signature Party Hit
These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are more than an appetizer; they’re a conversation starter, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a deliciously clever twist on two classics. They capture the hearty, satisfying spirit of fall and the fun, communal vibe of game day in one perfect, crispy package.
So, slice that steak, caramelize those onions, and get ready to roll. Your status as a hosting legend is just one fry away.
