Philly Cheesesteak Pizza: 10 Best Tips for the Perfect Slice

Pizza and Philly cheesesteak—two of the most beloved comfort foods—come together in one mouthwatering dish: Philly cheesesteak pizza. This irresistible combination features tender steak, gooey cheese, sautéed onions, and peppers, all nestled on a crispy, golden crust. Whether you’re a pizza fanatic, a cheesesteak lover, or just someone who enjoys bold flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Philly cheesesteak pizza. We’ll dive into its origins, key ingredients, and how to make the perfect homemade version. Plus, we’ll discuss popular variations, common mistakes to avoid, and the best places to find it. Let’s get started!

Introduction to Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

The combination of pizza and a Philly cheesesteak may seem unconventional, but it’s a match made in food heaven. Before we dig into how to make the perfect Philly cheesesteak pizza, let’s take a look at the history behind these two iconic dishes and how they merged into one delicious meal.

The Origin of Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly cheesesteak has deep roots in Philadelphia, dating back to the 1930s. Legend has it that Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, decided to grill some thinly sliced beef and serve it on an Italian roll. A passing taxi driver took one bite and immediately insisted that Olivieri start selling the sandwich. Over time, cheese was added—most notably Provolone, American cheese, or Cheez Whiz—giving birth to the Philly cheesesteak as we know it today.

How Pizza and Philly Cheesesteak Came Together

Pizza and Philly cheesesteaks have long been staples in American cuisine, but the idea of combining them is relatively new. With the rise of fusion foods, chefs and pizza lovers alike began experimenting with classic cheesesteak ingredients on a pizza crust. The result? A flavor-packed masterpiece that blends the rich, cheesy goodness of pizza with the savory, meaty taste of a cheesesteak.

Why Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is So Popular

There’s a reason why Philly cheesesteak pizza has taken off in popularity. It delivers the best of both worlds:

Savory and Cheesy: The combination of melted Provolone or mozzarella cheese with seasoned steak is simply irresistible.
Customizable: From choosing the crust type to adding different cheeses or toppings like mushrooms and banana peppers, there are endless ways to make it your own.
Easy to Make at Home: You don’t have to live in Philly to enjoy an authentic cheesesteak-inspired pizza—you can recreate it right in your kitchen!

Key Ingredients of a Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Creating the perfect Philly cheesesteak pizza starts with selecting the right ingredients. From the steak to the cheese and toppings, each component plays a crucial role in delivering that rich, savory flavor. Let’s break down the must-have ingredients.

The Best Cut of Steak for Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

The steak is the heart of any Philly cheesesteak pizza. Using the right cut ensures tenderness and maximum flavor. The best options include:

Ribeye: The classic choice, known for its marbling and juicy texture.
Sirloin: Leaner but still packed with flavor.
Flank Steak: Great for those who prefer a chewier bite.

To get that signature cheesesteak texture, slice the meat paper-thin and cook it quickly over high heat.

Cheese Selection: Provolone vs. Mozzarella vs. Cheese Sauce

A true Philly cheesesteak pizza needs melty, creamy cheese. But which one should you choose?

Provolone: Offers a mild, smoky taste and creamy melt.
Mozzarella: A classic pizza choice that adds a great stretch.
Cheez Whiz: The go-to for an authentic Philly cheesesteak twist.

For the best flavor, a blend of cheeses is ideal. Try using Provolone for taste and Mozzarella for the perfect melt.

Classic and Creative Toppings

While a traditional Philly cheesesteak pizza sticks to steak, cheese, and onions, you can always experiment. Here are some classic and unique topping ideas:

Classic: Sautéed onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms.
Creative: Jalapeños for spice, caramelized onions for sweetness, or banana peppers for a tangy kick.

What Sauce Works Best? (White Sauce vs. No Sauce vs. Alfredo)

Unlike traditional pizza, Philly cheesesteak pizza doesn’t always use a tomato-based sauce. Some of the best options include:

No sauce: Keeps it authentic and lets the steak shine.
White garlic sauce: Adds a creamy, garlicky richness.
Alfredo sauce: A thicker, buttery alternative for extra indulgence.

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s move on to Part 3, where we’ll walk through how to make the ultimate Philly cheesesteak pizza at home.

How to Make the Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Pizza at Home

Making Philly cheesesteak pizza at home is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect balance of crispy crust, juicy steak, and gooey cheese.

Step 1: Preparing the Dough (Homemade vs. Store-Bought)

Your crust choice makes all the difference. You can go with:

Homemade dough: Gives you full control over texture and thickness.
Store-bought dough: A quick and convenient option.
Pre-baked crust: Great if you’re short on time.

For the best results, roll your dough to medium thickness—thin enough to crisp up but sturdy enough to hold the toppings.

Step 2: Cooking the Steak to Perfection

The secret to juicy steak? Thin slices and high heat. Follow these tips:

Cook on medium-high heat in a cast-iron skillet.
Use a little oil to sear the steak quickly.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.

Avoid overcooking—the steak should be tender and slightly pink.

Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables for Maximum Flavor

For an authentic Philly cheesesteak pizza, sauté your veggies before adding them to the pizza.

Use butter or olive oil for a rich taste.
Cook onions, peppers, and mushrooms until soft and slightly caramelized.
Don’t rush—low and slow cooking enhances the sweetness of the onions.

Step 4: Assembling the Pizza (Layering for the Best Taste)

Now comes the fun part—putting everything together! Here’s the best way to layer your Philly cheesesteak pizza:

Spread the sauce (or go sauce-free for a classic cheesesteak feel).
Add a layer of cheese (Provolone, Mozzarella, or a mix).
Evenly distribute the steak to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Top with sautéed veggies for extra texture and taste.
Finish with another light sprinkle of cheese for that perfect melt.

Step 5: Baking and Final Touches

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) for a crispy crust.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let the pizza rest for 5 minutes before slicing—this keeps everything intact.

Now, you’re ready to dig into your homemade Philly cheesesteak pizza! Up next, we’ll explore popular variations of this delicious dish.

Popular Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

While the classic Philly cheesesteak pizza is already a masterpiece, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on it. Whether you love creamy sauces, extra spice, or different crust styles, here are some popular variations you’ll want to try.

Alfredo-Based Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

For a rich and creamy twist, swap out the traditional white sauce (or no sauce) for Alfredo sauce. The buttery, garlicky base enhances the flavors of the steak and cheese. To make this version extra indulgent:

Use homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of pizza sauce.
Choose Provolone and Mozzarella for a perfect melt.
Add caramelized onions and mushrooms for a deeper, savory flavor.

This variation pairs well with a thin, crispy crust to balance out the richness of the sauce.

Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Pizza (Jalapeños and Hot Sauce Additions)

If you love heat, give your Philly cheesesteak pizza a spicy upgrade! This version keeps the classic flavors but adds an extra kick. Here’s how:

Add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers for some spice.
Drizzle hot sauce or sriracha before serving.
Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cheese for extra heat.

This variation is perfect for spice lovers who want a bolder flavor profile.

Domino’s Style Philly Cheesesteak Pizza vs. Homemade

Domino’s offers its own version of Philly cheesesteak pizza, but how does it compare to a homemade one? Let’s break it down:

Feature	Domino’s Version	Homemade Version
Crust	Hand-tossed or pan crust	Customizable (thin, thick, stuffed)
Cheese	Provolone & Mozzarella	Your choice (Provolone, Mozzarella, Cheez Whiz)
Steak	Pre-cooked steak	Freshly cooked, thin-sliced steak
Sauce	No sauce	Alfredo, garlic white sauce, or no sauce
Toppings	Onions, green peppers, mushrooms	Fully customizable

While Domino’s version is convenient, homemade wins when it comes to freshness and customization!

Pan Pizza vs. Thin Crust: Which Works Best?

Choosing the right crust style can change the overall experience of your Philly cheesesteak pizza. Here’s a quick comparison:

Thin Crust: Crispy, light, and allows the toppings to shine. Best for those who prefer crunch.
Pan Pizza: Thick, buttery crust that soaks up the steak’s juices. Perfect for those who love a heartier bite.

No matter which style you prefer, the key is making sure the crust can hold all that cheesy, meaty goodness.

Now that we’ve explored different variations, let’s find out where you can get the best Philly cheesesteak pizza near you!

Where to Find the Best Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

If making it at home isn’t an option, don’t worry—plenty of restaurants serve delicious Philly cheesesteak pizza. Whether you’re in Philadelphia or somewhere else, here are the best spots to check out.

Top Restaurants Serving Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

These restaurants are known for their mouthwatering cheesesteak-inspired pizzas:

Angelo’s Pizzeria (Philadelphia, PA) – Famous for their fresh dough and high-quality steak toppings.
Collegeville Italian Bakery (Collegeville, PA) – Offers an authentic take on Philly cheesesteak pizza with the perfect balance of cheese and steak.
Lillo’s Tomato Pies (New Jersey) – Known for their crispy thin crust and rich cheese blend.
Joseph’s Pizza Parlor (Philadelphia, PA) – Serves a loaded cheesesteak pizza with extra toppings.

Best Philly Cheesesteak Pizza in Philadelphia

Since Philadelphia is the home of the cheesesteak, it’s no surprise that some of the best Philly cheesesteak pizzas can be found here. If you’re visiting or live nearby, check out:

Lorenzo and Sons Pizza – A Philly staple known for its huge slices and cheesesteak toppings.
Tony’s Famous Tomato Pie – Offers a white Philly cheesesteak pizza with a garlic butter base.
Santucci’s Original Square Pizza – Features a square-style pie with generous steak portions.

How to Choose a Good Restaurant for This Pizza

If you’re trying to find the best Philly cheesesteak pizza in your city, keep these tips in mind:

Look at Reviews: Check online ratings and customer feedback for real opinions.
Ask About Ingredients: High-quality steak and cheese make all the difference.
Choose Freshly Made Dough: Avoid places that use frozen crusts for better taste and texture.
Check the Cheese Blend: Authentic versions usually feature Provolone, Mozzarella, or even Cheez Whiz.

Common Mistakes When Making Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Even though Philly cheesesteak pizza is simple to make, small mistakes can ruin the final result. To help you achieve the perfect blend of crispy crust, juicy steak, and gooey cheese, let’s go over the most common pitfalls—and how to avoid them.

Using the Wrong Cut of Meat

One of the biggest mistakes is choosing the wrong type of steak. Not all beef cuts are suitable for a Philly cheesesteak pizza. If the meat is too tough or dry, it won’t have the classic cheesesteak texture.

✅ Best Choices: Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak—they’re tender, flavorful, and cook quickly.
❌ Avoid: Chuck steak or stew meat, which can be too chewy.

Tip: Always slice the steak paper-thin and cook it fast over high heat to keep it tender.

Overloading the Pizza with Too Many Toppings

While it’s tempting to pile on ingredients, too many toppings can make your pizza soggy and unevenly cooked.

✅ Stick to a balance of steak, cheese, and a few classic toppings like onions and peppers.
❌ Avoid adding too many wet toppings, like tomatoes or excess sauce, which can make the crust soggy.

Tip: Pre-cook vegetables like onions and mushrooms to remove excess moisture before adding them to the pizza.

Not Cooking the Vegetables Properly

Some people toss raw vegetables on their Philly cheesesteak pizza, expecting them to cook in the oven. The problem? They end up undercooked and crunchy.

✅ Always sauté onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms before adding them. This enhances their flavor and prevents them from releasing too much water.
❌ Don’t overcook them—they should be soft but not mushy.

Tip: Cook veggies over medium heat with a bit of butter or oil until caramelized for the best taste.

Choosing the Wrong Cheese

A proper Philly cheesesteak pizza needs melted, creamy cheese. Using the wrong type can result in a pizza that’s too greasy or lacking in flavor.

✅ Best choices: Provolone, Mozzarella, or Cheez Whiz. They melt well and complement the steak.
❌ Avoid hard cheeses like Parmesan or Swiss, as they don’t melt smoothly.

Tip: If you want a cheesier bite, mix Provolone with Mozzarella for a creamy yet stretchy texture.

Avoiding these common mistakes will set you up for success. But what if you still have questions? Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about Philly cheesesteak pizza.

FAQs About Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Still have some burning questions about Philly cheesesteak pizza? Here are answers to some of the most common ones!

What sauce is traditionally used on Philly Cheesesteak Pizza?

Unlike most pizzas, Philly cheesesteak pizza doesn’t require tomato sauce. The best options include:

No sauce – Keeps it classic and lets the flavors shine.
White garlic sauce – Adds a creamy, garlicky touch.
Alfredo sauce – A rich and buttery alternative.

Tip: If you want a cheesesteak-style flavor, skip the sauce and let the melted cheese act as the base.

Can I use chicken instead of beef for a Philly Cheesesteak Pizza?

Absolutely! A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Pizza is a great alternative. Simply swap out the steak for thinly sliced and seasoned chicken breast. The rest of the toppings stay the same!

✅ Best seasonings for chicken: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for that savory, umami flavor.

What’s the best cheese combination for this pizza?

The best way to get a melty, flavorful cheese layer is by combining different cheeses. Try:

Provolone + Mozzarella: A perfect mix of melt and stretch.
Cheez Whiz + Provolone: For an authentic Philly cheesesteak taste.
White American + Mozzarella: Creamy and rich.

How do I reheat Philly Cheesesteak Pizza without making it soggy?

Nobody likes a soggy reheated pizza! To keep the crust crispy and the toppings fresh, use these methods:

✅ Oven method: Preheat to 375°F (190°C), place the pizza on a baking sheet, and bake for 5-7 minutes.
✅ Skillet method: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, place the pizza inside, and cover it for 3-5 minutes until crispy.
❌ Avoid the microwave—it makes the crust chewy and the cheese rubbery.

Best Drinks and Sides to Pair with Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

A delicious Philly cheesesteak pizza deserves the perfect side dishes and drinks to round out the meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, the right pairings can elevate the experience.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Since Philly cheesesteak pizza is rich and savory, pairing it with the right sides can balance the flavors. Here are some of the best options:

✅ Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery, and full of garlicky goodness, they complement the cheesy steak flavors.
✅ French Fries or Waffle Fries – A nod to the classic cheesesteak combo. Try seasoned fries for extra flavor.
✅ Side Salad – A light Caesar salad or Greek salad adds freshness and crunch to balance the heavy pizza.
✅ Mozzarella Sticks – Because more cheese is always a good idea! These crispy bites are a great appetizer.
✅ Pickles or Banana Peppers – The tangy acidity of pickled veggies cuts through the richness of the pizza.

Best Drinks to Complement Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

The bold flavors of Philly cheesesteak pizza call for the right drink to wash it down. Here are some top picks:

🥤 Classic Soda: A cold Coke, Pepsi, or root beer pairs well with the cheesy, meaty flavors.
🍺 Craft Beer: A lager, pale ale, or wheat beer balances the richness of the steak and cheese.
🍷 Red Wine: A Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the bold, beefy flavors.
🥤 Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing and slightly tart, these drinks cleanse the palate.
🥃 Whiskey or Bourbon: If you’re feeling fancy, a smooth whiskey brings out the smoky steak notes.

With the right sides and drinks, your Philly cheesesteak pizza experience will be even more satisfying. Now, let’s take a closer look at its nutritional breakdown in Part 9.

Nutritional Information and Healthier Alternatives

While Philly cheesesteak pizza is undeniably delicious, it’s also a hearty and indulgent meal. If you’re curious about its nutrition or looking for lighter alternatives, this section has you covered.

Nutritional Breakdown of Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

The exact calorie count depends on the crust type, cheese, and toppings used. However, here’s an estimate for one slice of a standard Philly cheesesteak pizza (with a medium crust, Provolone cheese, steak, and veggies):

Nutrient	Amount per Slice
Calories	300-400 kcal
Protein	15-20g
Carbohydrates	30-40g
Fats	12-18g
Sodium	600-800mg

As you can see, Philly cheesesteak pizza is protein-packed but also high in fats and sodium. If you want to enjoy it guilt-free, consider these healthier swaps.

Healthier Alternatives for a Lighter Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

Want to make a lighter version of Philly cheesesteak pizza? Try these smart substitutions:

✅ Use Whole Wheat or Cauliflower Crust – Lower in carbs and adds extra fiber.
✅ Choose Lean Steak Cuts – Opt for sirloin instead of ribeye to cut down on fat.
✅ Reduce the Cheese – Use a light sprinkle of Provolone or switch to reduced-fat cheese.
✅ Load Up on Veggies – Add extra mushrooms, onions, and peppers to boost nutrients.
✅ Try a Yogurt-Based Sauce – Swap out Alfredo sauce for a Greek yogurt garlic sauce for fewer calories.

These small changes can make Philly cheesesteak pizza healthier without sacrificing flavor.

If you love a classic BLT but want something even heartier, try this Turkey Club Sandwich Recipe, packed with extra layers of turkey and cheese: https://truebiterecipes.com/turkey-club-sandwich-recipe-guide/

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