Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: Your Ultimate Game Day Appetizer
Crispy, meaty, and wonderfully cheesy – these three words perfectly encapsulate the irresistible allure of our **Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls**. Imagine biting into a golden, crunchy shell to discover a savory explosion of thinly sliced roast beef, sautéed onions and peppers, all bound together with melted provolone cheese. This isn’t just a fusion dish; it’s a celebration of classic American comfort food reinvented into the most satisfying finger food. It’s the beloved flavor profile of a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich, meticulously wrapped and fried to golden perfection, offering a truly unique and indulgent experience.
These egg rolls are so incredibly flavorful and satisfying, they quickly become a household favorite. They capture all the iconic taste of a classic cheesesteak – the tender, seasoned beef, the sweet and savory vegetables, and that essential gooey cheese – but in a portable, convenient, and utterly delicious bundle. Perfect for entertaining, a quick snack, or even a fun meal, these Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are guaranteed to impress and leave everyone craving more.
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Why You’ll Love These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
There’s a reason these crispy delights disappear so quickly whenever they’re served. Here’s why these Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls will become a staple in your recipe collection:
- Unforgettable Flavor: They deliver all the robust, savory, and cheesy goodness of a classic Philly cheesesteak in every bite. The combination of seasoned beef, tender vegetables, and melted cheese is simply divine.
- Perfectly Portable: Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a delicious appetizer, or need a convenient snack, these egg rolls are easy to hold and eat, making them ideal for any occasion.
- Crispy Texture: The egg roll wrappers fry up to an incredibly satisfying golden crisp, providing the perfect textural contrast to the soft, juicy filling inside.
- Simple to Make: Despite their impressive appearance and taste, these egg rolls are surprisingly easy to prepare. With straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch ready in no time.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy them on their own, or elevate the experience with an optional homemade cheese sauce, transforming them into an even more indulgent treat.
- Clever Use of Leftovers: This recipe is an excellent way to utilize leftover roast beef, transforming it into an entirely new and exciting meal.
Essential Ingredients for Your Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Crafting these delectable egg rolls requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients that build layers of authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor. I often turn to this recipe when I have remnants of my Homemade Roast Beef for Sandwiches. It’s not just a meal; it’s an opportunity to ensure no delicious bit of that roast goes to waste, giving you a whole new culinary creation.
Beyond the beef, you’ll need a few fresh vegetables, some key seasonings, and, of course, the egg roll wrappers that transform these into a crispy delight. The addition of Herbs de Provence might seem unconventional for a cheesesteak, but it truly elevates the flavor profile of both the beef and the sautéed vegetables, adding an unexpected depth and aromatic complexity.
- Unsalted Butter: The base for sautéing our vegetables, butter adds a rich, foundational flavor to the filling. You can substitute with olive oil if preferred, though butter offers a classic savory note.
- Green Bell Pepper: Thinly sliced green bell pepper provides that quintessential cheesesteak flavor and a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
- Yellow Onion: Also thinly sliced, yellow onion sweetens as it caramelizes, adding essential depth and aroma to the filling.
- Deli Roast Beef: The star of the show! Thinly sliced and chopped deli roast beef mimics the texture and flavor of traditional cheesesteak meat with minimal effort. Look for high-quality, thinly shaved varieties.
- Kosher Salt & Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the filling, bringing out the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables.
- Herbs de Provence: A unique touch that sets this recipe apart. This aromatic blend of herbs (like thyme, savory, oregano, marjoram, and rosemary) enhances the beefy flavor with a sophisticated, earthy note.
- Provolone Cheese: Six slices, halved, for that classic melt and savory-tangy flavor inside each egg roll. Provolone is a must for an authentic cheesesteak experience.
- Egg Roll Wrappers: The vessel for our delicious filling. These readily available wrappers fry up beautifully crisp and golden.
- Oil for Frying: A neutral oil with a high smoke point (like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil) is needed for deep frying, ensuring a perfectly crispy exterior.
For the Optional Cheesy Dipping Sauce:
- Unsalted Butter & All-Purpose Flour: To create a roux, the thickener for our creamy cheese sauce.
- Whole Milk: The liquid base for the sauce, providing a rich and smooth consistency.
- Hot Sauce & Kosher Salt: A touch of hot sauce adds a subtle zing, while salt balances the flavors.
- Yellow American Cheese & Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A combination that creates a super smooth, incredibly flavorful, and “cheez-wiz-like” dipping sauce that perfectly complements the egg rolls.
For precise ingredient measurements and detailed instructions, use the JUMP TO RECIPE button at the top of the post, or simply scroll down to the bottom of the page to access the full recipe card.
Crafting Your Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: Step-by-Step
Creating these delightful Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls is a process that’s both straightforward and incredibly rewarding. The key lies in preparing a flavorful filling and mastering the simple technique of rolling and frying.
1. Prepare the Flavorful Filling
The journey begins with the heart of our egg rolls: the filling. In a large, hot skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the thinly sliced yellow onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for 3-4 minutes, or until they have softened and become slightly translucent. This step is crucial for developing a sweet and savory base for your filling.
Next, introduce the chopped deli roast beef to the skillet. Season generously with kosher salt, fresh cracked black pepper, and the aromatic Herbs de Provence. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef begins to crisp and brown. This browning process adds a significant depth of flavor, reminiscent of a griddled cheesesteak. Once cooked, remove the filling from the heat and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes, or until it reaches room temperature. Cooling the filling is vital, as it prevents the egg roll wrappers from tearing and the cheese from melting prematurely during the rolling process.
2. Master the Art of Rolling
With your flavorful filling cooled and ready, it’s time to assemble your egg rolls. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one point facing you, forming a diamond shape. Place half a slice of provolone cheese in the center of the wrapper – this creates a gooey cheese layer that melts beautifully. Then, spoon 2-3 tablespoons of your prepared steak filling onto the cheese.
To seal the wrapper, lightly wet all the edges with water. First, fold the bottom corner up over the filling and tuck it in tightly. Then, fold in the two side corners towards the center. Finally, roll the wrapper up from the bottom, as tightly as you can without tearing, forming a neat, tight cylinder. The water on the edges will act as a glue, sealing the egg roll. Continue this process until all the meat mixture has been used, yielding approximately 12 perfectly rolled egg rolls.
3. Fry to Golden Perfection
Now for the satisfying crunch! You have two excellent options for cooking your egg rolls:
Deep Frying (Traditional Method):
Pour 2-3 inches of a neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) into a deep cast-iron pan or a dedicated deep fryer. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place 3-4 egg rolls into the hot oil at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy egg rolls. Fry them for approximately 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are beautifully browned and crispy on all sides. Once golden, remove the egg rolls and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Air Frying (Healthier Alternative):
If you prefer a lighter option, the air fryer works wonderfully. Lightly brush each rolled egg roll with a little oil on all sides. Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and perfectly crispy.
Both methods yield delicious results, though deep frying often provides that ultimate crispiness. Serve your freshly fried Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls warm, cut in half to showcase the delightful filling. And if you’re a true cheesesteak enthusiast, don’t skip the optional, “cheez-wiz-like” dipping sauce – because who could ever say no to more cheese with their Philly!?
Expert Notes & Tips for Perfect Egg Rolls
Achieving the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls is easy with a few insider tips:
- Grinding Herbs de Provence: When using Herbs de Provence, which often comes in a whole, dry form, I highly recommend grinding it down slightly in a spice grinder or with a mortar and pestle. This helps to release its full aromatic potential and distribute the flavor more evenly throughout the beef and vegetables, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Preventing Overfilling: It’s tempting to pack the wrappers with as much delicious filling as possible, but resist the urge to overfill. An overfilled wrapper is much more prone to tearing during rolling and bursting during frying. Aim for 2-3 tablespoons of filling per wrapper. The final rolled egg roll will likely be smaller than you might initially envision, typically about 1 ½ inches by 3 ½ inches, but this size is ideal for perfect crispiness and easy handling.
- Cooling the Filling is Key: Ensure the beef and vegetable mixture has cooled significantly, ideally to room temperature, before you begin rolling. Hot filling will make the wrappers soft and tear easily, and can cause the provolone cheese to melt prematurely, making the rolling process messy and difficult.
- Tight Rolling for Structure: Roll your egg rolls as tightly as possible without ripping the wrapper. A tight roll ensures the filling stays contained, prevents air pockets that can cause uneven frying, and results in a beautifully shaped, sturdy egg roll.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: If deep frying, consistently monitor your oil temperature with a thermometer. Keeping it at a steady 350°F (175°C) is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy exterior without overcooking the inside or making the egg rolls greasy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry in batches of 3-4 egg rolls at a time. Overcrowding the pan will significantly drop the oil temperature, leading to soggy, oil-laden egg rolls instead of crispy ones.
Versatile Substitutions to Suit Your Taste
This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing for various substitutions to match your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Butter Alternative: If you prefer not to use butter, a good quality olive oil can be used for sautéing the vegetables. It will lend a slightly different flavor profile but still yield delicious results.
- Bell Pepper & Onion Varieties: While green bell pepper and yellow onion are traditional for a classic cheesesteak flavor, feel free to experiment. Red bell peppers offer a sweeter note, while red onions can add a touch more sweetness and a vibrant color. Any color of bell pepper or onion will work.
- Roast Beef Options: I love using my homemade deli roast beef for superior flavor, but you can certainly pick up high-quality, thinly sliced roast beef from your local grocery store deli counter. For a truly authentic “Philly” feel with much less work than shaving raw steak, deli roast beef is fantastic as it mimics the “steak-ums” texture. You could also use thinly shaved ribeye or sirloin steak if you prefer to cook from raw.
- Seasoning Swaps: Herbs de Provence significantly enhances the beefy flavor, but if it’s not readily available, a good steak seasoning blend, Italian seasoning, or a simple mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika can be used as alternatives.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, simply swap the provolone cheese slices for your preferred dairy-free cheese slices. Many brands offer dairy-free American or provolone-style slices that melt well. Most egg roll wrappers are naturally vegan and dairy-free, so check the label, and use olive oil instead of butter for the filling.
- Gluten-Free Wrappers: While traditional egg roll wrappers contain gluten, several brands now offer gluten-free spring roll or egg roll wrappers made from rice flour. Ensure you choose a brand specifically designed for frying for the best crispy results.
Serving Your Delicious Egg Rolls
These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas to make them shine:
- With the Cheesy Dipping Sauce: The optional homemade “cheez-wiz-like” sauce is a match made in heaven. Its creamy, tangy, and rich flavor perfectly complements the savory egg rolls, taking them to the next level.
- Other Dipping Sauce Ideas: Don’t limit yourself! Try serving them with classic marinara sauce, ranch dressing, a spicy sriracha mayo, or even a simple ketchup for a crowd-pleasing experience.
- As an Appetizer: Cut them in half diagonally to showcase the delicious filling. Arrange them on a platter for game days, parties, or any gathering where you want to serve a memorable finger food.
- Part of a Larger Spread: Pair them with other crowd-pleasing appetizers like sliders, mini quiches, or a fresh salad for a complete party food spread.
- For a Fun Meal: Serve 2-3 egg rolls per person with a side of coleslaw or a light green salad for a casual and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To ensure your Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls remain delicious, proper storage and reheating are key:
- Storing Uncooked Egg Rolls: If you’re preparing them in advance, place the uncooked, rolled egg rolls in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them on the baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag for up to 1 month. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Storing Cooked Egg Rolls: Allow any leftover cooked egg rolls to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating for Crispiness: To restore their crispiness, avoid the microwave!
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the egg rolls on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Air Fryer: Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until hot and crisp.
More of my favorite Party Foods
Reuben Egg Rolls
Loaded Baked Potato Bites
Black Bean Dip
Artichoke Three Cheese Dip
Apple Nachos
Mexican Flautas
Mini Beef Wellington Bites
Greek Fries with Chicken
White Queso Dip
Doritos Chicken
Sausage Rolls with Puff Pastry
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📖 Recipe
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
20 minutes
10 minutes
30 minutes
Crispy, meaty, cheesy. Those descriptors alone are enough to make me want to make these Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls.
Ingredients
for the egg rolls:
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Yellow Onion, thinly sliced
- 1 pound Deli Roast Beef, thin sliced and chopped
- Kosher Salt, Morton’s
- Fresh Cracked Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Herbs de Provence
- 6 slices Provolone Cheese, halved
- 12 Egg Roll Wrappers
- Oil for Frying
for the sauce: optional
- 2 tablespoon Unsalted Butter
- 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour
- 1 ¼ cups Whole Milk
- ¼ teaspoon Hot Sauce
- ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt, Morton’s
- 1 cup Yellow American Cheese, diced
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated
Instructions
Notes
Notes & Tips
When using Herbs de Provence in a recipe like this, I like to grind it down a bit in a spice grinder. The spice blend comes in a whole, dry form, and grinding it down a bit helps spread out the flavor and makes it more enjoyable to eat.
Be sure to not overfill the wrappers. The final rolled egg roll will probably be smaller than you think it will be. But that is right. A finished egg roll will be about 1 ½ inches by 3 ½ inches or so.
Substitutions
If you prefer not to use butter, you can swap it for olive oil.
I feel like green bell pepper and yellow onion are the most traditional, but you can use any color of bell pepper or onion. A red onion will simply give a bit more sweetness.
I use my homemade deli roast beef, but you can also pick some up at the grocery store deli counter. I like to use deli roast beef because it gives the feel of steak-ums that would be used in traditional Philly’s, with much less work.
I like to use Herbs de Provence because I think they up the beefy flavor of this recipe. It is a great compliment, but you could also use a good steak seasoning if needed.
If you’d like to make this dairy-free, opt for a dairy-free cheese slice, it can even be an American cheese slice swap if needed. And most egg roll wrappers are vegan, so no dairy there either.
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Shun Classic 7″ Hollow Ground Santoku Knife w/Custom Engraving
- John Boos MPL1812125G Chop-N-Slice Select Maple Edge Grain Cutting Board, 18 Inches x 12 Inches x 1.25 Inches
- Lodge Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder, 12-inch
- Rösle Stainless Steel 12-inch Lock and Release Tongs
- Presto 05411 GranPappy Electric Deep Fryer
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
12
Serving Size:
1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 352Total Fat: 19gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 69mgSodium: 1028mgCarbohydrates: 25gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 20g
This is an estimated caloric value, actual numbers may differ based on the ingredients used.
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