If you’ve ever dreamed of turning the iconic Philly cheesesteak into a soul-warming, silky bowl of comfort, you’re going to love this Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup. It perfectly captures the savory essence of tender beef, sweet peppers, and melty provolone, all embraced by a luscious creamy broth that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl. Whether you’re craving something hearty on a chilly day or want to impress friends with a twist on a classic, this soup delivers all the flavor and warmth that your taste buds will adore.

Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup is surprisingly simple, and each ingredient plays a key role in layering flavor, texture, and color. From the tender beef to the vibrant bell peppers and creamy cheese, you’ll find each element essential to bringing this comforting soup to life.

1 pound thinly sliced beef: Choose high-quality beef for tenderness and rich flavor that mimics an authentic Philly steak.
1 medium onion: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens during sautéing.
1 bell pepper: Brightens the soup with a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
2 cloves garlic: Infuses the soup with a fragrant, savory note that ties all the flavors together.
4 cups beef broth: The hearty base that makes the soup comforting and full-bodied.
1 cup heavy cream: Brings that signature creamy richness that’s absolutely irresistible.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami punch that deepens the steakhouse flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat that balances the creaminess.
1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully to give the soup its cheesy, gooey finish.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle fruity richness.
Fresh parsley for garnish: A fresh, bright touch to finish each bowl.

How to Make Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the thinly sliced onion and bell pepper, stirring as they soften and become tender, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor with those sweet, aromatic veggies.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Brown the Beef

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant—about one minute. Then, add the thinly sliced beef and cook it until it browns beautifully. Browning the meat this way locks in the juicy flavors that make this soup feel like an authentic Philly cheesesteak transformation.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Worcestershire Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender, infusing the broth with rich, savory notes.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Seasonings

Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, which balances the richness and enhances the overall profile. This step is where the soup truly becomes “Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup” in both texture and taste.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Finally, sprinkle in the shredded provolone cheese and stir continuously until it’s completely melted and the soup is velvety smooth. This cheesy goodness is what makes this soup a standout comfort food, marrying all the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors into a luscious broth.

How to Serve Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the perfect finishing touch, adding a bright, herbal note and a splash of color that livens up the bowl. You might also consider a sprinkle of extra shredded provolone or a few crumbled crispy fried onions for an extra texture boost.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm soft rolls—perfect for dipping into that rich, creamy broth. A simple tossed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the richness and provide a refreshing contrast on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or garnish individual bowls with crispy sautéed mushrooms or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like a little kick. Presentation makes this dish not only delicious but also visually inviting for any casual meal or dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day meal that warms up beautifully without losing its creamy charm.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but keep in mind that dairy can sometimes separate. To minimize this, freeze the soup without the cream and cheese, then add those when reheating. Store in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add additional cream or cheese as needed to restore that perfect creamy consistency and warmed-through, melty goodness just like when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While provolone is classic and melts beautifully, you can try mozzarella, fontina, or even a mild cheddar depending on your preference. Each will give a slightly different flavor and creaminess level.

Is this soup spicy?

The traditional recipe isn’t spicy, but you can easily add some crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to introduce a bit of heat to suit your taste.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap beef broth for vegetable broth and replace the beef with hearty mushrooms or a meat substitute. The flavor will be different but still deliciously comforting.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should have a creamy, slightly thickened broth that coats your spoon but still has a bit of liquid to enjoy with every bite. The cheese and cream help achieve that lovely velvety texture.

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin are ideal because they cook quickly and remain tender. You can also ask your butcher to slice steak thinly for soups and stir-fries.

Final Thoughts

You truly cannot go wrong with this Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup. It’s a perfect example of turning familiar, comforting ingredients into a delightful new experience that’s both rich and refreshing all at once. I encourage you to give this recipe a try any time you want a bowl of warm, cheesy happiness that tastes like a Philly classic with a creamy twist. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 14 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Creamy Philly Cheese Steak Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender slices of beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and melted provolone cheese in a rich, creamy broth. This flavorful soup brings the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors into a cozy bowl, perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a satisfying meal.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper and sauté until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic and Beef: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma. Then, add the thinly sliced beef to the pot, cooking and stirring until the beef is nicely browned on all sides.
Simmer with Broth: Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Incorporate Cream and Season: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Season the soup with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Add Cheese and Finish: Gradually add 1 cup of shredded provolone cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the soup achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately for best taste.

Notes

Use thinly sliced beef such as ribeye or sirloin for authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer longer to reduce liquid or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
Substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or American cheese if desired.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup will be less rich.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added freshness and visual appeal.
Serve with crusty bread or soft pretzels for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: American