Irresistible Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: A Savory Twist on a Classic
Prepare to elevate your appetizer game with these incredible Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls! Imagine tender, thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, vibrant bell peppers, and rich, melty mozzarella cheese, all expertly wrapped in a golden-brown, irresistibly crispy egg roll wrapper. This recipe takes the beloved flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich and transforms them into a portable, dippable delight, perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Egg Roll Recipe
There’s something truly magical about taking a beloved classic and giving it an unexpected, delightful twist. These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls do just that, reinventing the iconic sandwich into a crunchy, hand-held appetizer that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The concept isn’t just a novelty; it genuinely enhances the experience of enjoying those familiar savory flavors. While classic Philly cheesesteaks are incredible, and even a Philly cheesesteak dip is fantastic, these egg rolls offer a unique texture and portability that makes them stand out.
Each bite delivers a symphony of textures and tastes. The exterior is a beautifully crispy, golden-brown shell that shatters perfectly to reveal a warm, savory interior. Inside, you’ll find succulent, seasoned steak pieces, softened bell peppers and onions, earthy mushrooms, and wonderfully gooey, melted cheese. It’s the ultimate combination of juicy, meaty goodness and fresh, sautéed vegetables, all held together by that satisfying cheese pull.
These savory egg rolls are incredibly versatile. They make an outstanding appetizer, flying off the plate at parties, game day gatherings, or any celebration where finger foods are welcome. Their convenient size makes them easy to grab and enjoy without the mess of a traditional sandwich. But don’t relegate them solely to the appetizer menu; they are hearty enough to serve as a fun and unique dinner option, especially when paired with a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce. The convenience and irresistible flavor profile ensure these homemade Philly cheesesteak egg rolls will become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Essential Ingredients for Your Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. You’ll find a complete list of measurements, ingredients, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the very end of this article.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Achieving the perfect Philly cheesesteak egg roll relies on quality ingredients, but there’s also flexibility to suit your preferences and what you have on hand.
- BEEF: We recommend flank steak for its excellent flavor and ability to become wonderfully tender when thinly sliced against the grain. Other fantastic options for a classic cheesesteak taste include thinly sliced **ribeye** or **top round**. If you prefer a leaner cut, **sirloin** works well. For a more budget-friendly or quicker preparation, **ground beef** can also be used; just be sure to break it up finely as it cooks. Regardless of your choice, ensure the meat is cut into small, bite-sized pieces to fit perfectly within the egg roll wrappers and ensure even cooking.
- EGG ROLL WRAPPERS: These are the key to the signature crispy shell. You can typically locate them in the refrigerated section of your local grocery store, often near fresh pasta or tofu. They come in various sizes, so choose standard egg roll wrappers (not wonton wrappers, which are smaller). Keep them covered with a damp cloth while assembling to prevent them from drying out and cracking.
- VEGETABLES: The classic trio of bell peppers (we use a mix of green and red for color and balanced flavor), onions, and mushrooms (such as baby bella or white button) forms the aromatic and flavorful base of our filling. These vegetables soften and caramelize as they cook, adding depth and sweetness. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your liking. For a spicier kick, consider adding finely diced jalapeños. Spinach or other quick-cooking greens can also be folded into the mixture for added nutrients and color.
- CHEESE: The “cheesesteak” wouldn’t be complete without the gooey, melted cheese! Shredded mozzarella is a fantastic choice for its superb melt and mild flavor. Other excellent options include thinly sliced provolone for a sharper, more traditional Philly flavor, or good quality deli American cheese (avoid individually wrapped singles, as they don’t melt as well or have the same flavor profile). You could even experiment with a blend of cheeses for a more complex profile.
- SEASONINGS & OIL: Simple yet effective, garlic salt, paprika, and onion powder elevate the beef. Olive oil is used for sautéing, but any neutral cooking oil works.
How to Craft Your Delicious Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
These step-by-step photos and instructions are designed to guide you visually through the recipe. For a convenient printable version, complete with precise measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Begin by preparing your beef. Place the flank steak pieces, chopped into bite-sized portions, into a large mixing bowl.
- In a small separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the garlic salt, paprika, and onion powder. Whisk these seasonings together until well mixed. Pour this aromatic mixture over the steak in the large bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece of meat is evenly coated. This seasoning blend will infuse the steak with incredible flavor.
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Allow it to get hot before adding the meat.
- Add the seasoned steak to the hot skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is no longer pink and is beautifully browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes depending on the thickness of your steak pieces. Ensure it’s cooked through but not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
- Once cooked, transfer the meat into a colander. Allow it to drain for a few minutes to remove any excess liquid. This step is crucial to prevent the egg rolls from becoming soggy.
- Return the same skillet to the heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add your chopped bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Sauté these vegetables, stirring frequently, until they are tender and slightly caramelized, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes.
- To achieve the perfect texture for the filling, place half of the cooked meat and sautéed vegetables into a food chopper. Pulse quickly 2-3 times – just enough to break the ingredients into smaller, uniform pieces. Be careful not to over-process; you want a chunky mixture, not a paste, to maintain a satisfying texture in your egg rolls.
CHEF’S TIP: If you don’t have a food chopper, a sharp Chef’s knife can be used effectively. Simply chop the meat and vegetables into smaller, consistent pieces by hand.
- Combine the pulsed meat mixture with the remaining unchopped meat and vegetable mixture. This blend creates a desirable texture variation in the final egg rolls.
- Lay your egg roll wrappers flat on a clean work surface, oriented like a diamond (one corner pointing towards you).
- Place a generous heaping tablespoon of shredded cheese in the center of each egg roll wrapper, followed by about 2 tablespoons of the meat and vegetable mixture on top of the cheese. Ensure the filling is centered and compact.
- Moisten all four edges of the egg roll wrapper with a little water using your finger. This acts as a seal and prevents the wrapper from unraveling during frying.
- To fold, bring the bottom corner (closest to you) up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Fold in the two side corners towards the center, creating an envelope shape. Then, starting from the bottom, roll the wrapper upwards, keeping the filling snug, until you reach the top corner and have a tight, neatly wrapped egg roll.
- Preheat your deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Accurate oil temperature is key for crispness without excessive greasiness.
- Carefully place egg rolls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for approximately 7 minutes, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and begin to float to the surface.
- Once perfectly golden and crispy, remove the egg rolls from the fryer and place them on a wire rack set over paper towels. This allows excess oil to drain off, keeping them extra crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Success
For deep frying your Philly cheesesteak egg rolls, it’s crucial to select an oil with a high smoke point to ensure golden crispiness without a burnt flavor. Excellent choices include canola oil, peanut oil, vegetable oil, or safflower oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures required for frying and impart a neutral flavor to your delicious egg rolls. Always be mindful of safety when deep frying: use a stable, heavy pot, don’t overfill it, and have a lid nearby in case of a grease fire.
Absolutely! No deep fryer? No problem! You can easily make these incredible cheesesteak spring rolls in a large, deep-sided skillet or a Dutch oven. Simply fill your chosen pot about halfway with one of the recommended oils (canola, peanut, vegetable) and heat it to a consistent 375°F (190°C), verifying with a candy thermometer. Fry a few egg rolls at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and flip them occasionally to ensure even browning. For an even healthier, less messy alternative, you can also consider baking or air frying them. To bake, place them on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking oil, and air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
If you happen to have any leftovers (it’s rare, they’re so good!), ensure the Philly cheesesteak egg rolls are fully cooled before storing. Transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To bring back their desired crispness, we highly recommend reheating them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, until they are warmed through and crispy again. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the wrappers soggy.
Yes, these steak and cheese egg rolls freeze exceptionally well, making them an excellent make-ahead option! Once they are completely cooled after frying, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Then, transfer the frozen egg rolls to a large freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container, and they will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven or air fryer until hot and crispy. Alternatively, you can freeze them *before* cooking! Assemble the egg rolls, arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, or thaw partially before frying. Freezing uncooked egg rolls is a fantastic way to prep for future gatherings!
Dipping & Serving Ideas for Your Egg Rolls
These Philly cheesesteak egg rolls are undeniably a showstopper on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right dipping sauces and complementary sides. They are a universal favorite for any event, from lively game day parties to casual family dinners, and they make an impressive addition to potlucks and holiday gatherings.
For dipping, the possibilities are endless and delicious. Embrace the cheesesteak theme with a creamy, rich cheese dip or a classic queso. The tanginess of ranch dressing provides a cool contrast to the savory filling, while a spicy mayo-ketchup blend adds a vibrant, zesty kick. Marinara sauce offers a comforting, Italian-inspired twist, and if you’re a fan of a little sweetness and umami, a homemade yum yum sauce is an excellent choice. Don’t hesitate to get creative with other favorites like honey mustard, sriracha aioli, or even a simple hot sauce for those who love extra heat.
If you’re serving these as a main meal, consider complementing them with a fresh, crisp side salad to balance the richness. A simple coleslaw, steamed green beans, or even a light pasta salad would also pair wonderfully, making for a satisfying and complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Discover More Delicious Egg Roll Recipes
If you love the versatility and crunch of egg rolls, explore these other fantastic recipes that transform classic dishes into exciting, fried bundles of joy:
- Crispy Shrimp Egg Rolls
- Savory Reuben Egg Rolls
- Fun Big Mac Egg Rolls
- Hearty Corned Beef Egg Rolls
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Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 Tablespoon garlic salt
- 1 Tablespoon paprika
- 1 Tablespoon onion powder
- ½ green bell pepper chopped
- ½ red bell pepper chopped
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 4 ounces chopped mushrooms such as baby bella or white button
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 11 egg roll wrappers
- oil for frying
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Mixing bowls
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Large skillet
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Colander
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Mini food chopper
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Deep fryer or a large deep-sided skillet
Before You Start: Helpful Tips
- If you don’t have a deep fryer, don’t worry! You can easily make these egg rolls in a large, deep-sided skillet or Dutch oven. Fill it about halfway with high smoke point oil (like canola or peanut oil) and heat it to 375°F (190°C), using a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature for best results.
- While flank steak is excellent for its tenderness and flavor, you have options! Thinly sliced ribeye, top round, or sirloin also work beautifully. For a quicker or more economical option, ground beef can be used.
- The type of cheese greatly impacts the “cheesesteak” experience. Mozzarella is a classic for its meltiness, but provolone adds a sharper, more traditional Philly flavor, and good quality deli American cheese (avoiding individually wrapped slices) melts wonderfully. Feel free to mix and match!
Instructions
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Place your flank steak, pre-chopped into bite-sized pieces, into a large mixing bowl.1 pound flank steak
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together 2 Tablespoons of the olive oil with the garlic salt, paprika, and onion powder. Pour this seasoning blend over the meat in the large bowl and toss well until the steak is completely coated.1 Tablespoon garlic salt, 1 Tablespoon paprika, 1 Tablespoon onion powder
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Heat a dry skillet over medium heat until hot.
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Add the seasoned meat to the hot skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and no longer pink.
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Transfer the cooked meat to a colander and allow any excess liquid to drain thoroughly. This step is important for crispy egg rolls.
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Return the skillet to the heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Sauté, stirring, until the vegetables are tender, which should take about 3-4 minutes.1/2 green bell pepper, 1/2 red bell pepper, 4 ounces chopped mushrooms, 1/2 cup chopped onion
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Place half of the cooked meat and sautéed vegetables into a food chopper. Pulse 2-3 times quickly, just enough to break them into smaller, uniform pieces without turning them into a paste. If you don’t have a food chopper, finely chop them with a Chef’s knife.
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Combine the pulsed meat mixture with the remaining unchopped meat and veggie mixture in a bowl.
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Arrange egg roll wrappers on a flat work surface, positioned like diamonds (with a corner facing you).11 egg roll wrappers
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In the center of each egg roll wrapper, place a heaping tablespoon of shredded cheese, then top with approximately 2 tablespoons of the meat and vegetable mixture.8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
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Lightly moisten all four edges of the egg roll wrapper with water using your finger. This creates a seal.
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Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, tucking it in snugly. Then, fold in the two side corners towards the center. Roll the wrapper upwards from the bottom, keeping the filling tight and secure, until you reach the top corner and have a neatly rolled egg roll.
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Preheat your deep fryer (or deep-sided skillet with oil) to 375°F (190°C).
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Carefully place egg rolls into the hot oil (do not overcrowd) and fry for approximately 7 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and float to the top.
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Remove the fried egg rolls and drain them on a wire rack placed over paper towels to remove excess oil and maintain crispness. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!
Expert Tips & FAQs Summary
- For optimal deep frying, use oils with a high smoke point such as canola, peanut, vegetable, or safflower oil.
- Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispness.
- These egg rolls freeze beautifully! Freeze cooked and cooled egg rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results. You can also freeze them uncooked, then fry directly from frozen (adding a few minutes to cooking time).
Nutrition Information
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.