These Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic sandwich. They capture all the delicious elements of a Philly cheesesteak—tender meat, sauteed onions and peppers, and melted cheese—but in a convenient meatball form. These meatballs are perfect for a casual appetizer, a hearty snack, or even a main course when served with your favorite sides.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Cheesy: These meatballs are packed with the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, with a cheesy, savory filling and a creamy cheese sauce.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these meatballs are a breeze to prepare.
- Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a salad.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs:
For the Meatballs:
- Ground beef: Extra lean, for a healthier option.
- Onion: Grated, for flavor and moisture.
- Green bell pepper and red bell pepper: Finely chopped, for color, sweetness, and crunch.
- Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
- Eggs: Help bind the meatball ingredients together.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated, adds a salty and nutty flavor.
- Gruyère cheese: Shredded, adds a creamy and nutty flavor.
- Olive oil: For frying the meatballs.
For the Cheese Sauce:
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce.
- Milk: Use your preferred milk fat percentage.
- Gruyère cheese: Shredded, adds a creamy and nutty flavor.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded, adds a classic cheesy flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, chopped bell peppers, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded Gruyère cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Shape the mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and cook until browned on all sides, about 7 minutes. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to get rid of the raw flour taste. Pour in the milk and whisk until smooth. Cook for another minute, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded Gruyère and cheddar cheeses. Whisk until smooth and melted. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Turn off the heat.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked meatballs back to the skillet with the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until combined.
- Brown the meatballs well: Browning the meatballs adds flavor and helps them hold their shape.
- Adjust the sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs
- Appetizer: Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks or skewers for easy dipping.
- Snack: Enjoy them as a hearty and satisfying snack on their own.
- Main Course: Serve them with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing:
To freeze the meatballs, let them cool completely at room temperature. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Freeze the sauce separately in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
Reheat the meatballs and sauce separately in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses.
Can I make this dish without the sauce?
Yes, you can simply bake or fry the meatballs and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce or aioli.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use a mixture of lentils and vegetables for the meatballs.
There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
PrintPhilly Cheesesteak Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Philly Cheesesteak Meatballs are a fun and delicious twist on the classic sandwich. They feature all the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak – tender beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melted cheese – in a convenient meatball form.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 1/2 pounds extra lean ground beef
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (3% or your preferred type)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make Meatballs: Combine all meatball ingredients (except olive oil) in a large bowl and mix well. Shape into small 1-inch meatballs.
- Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in the same skillet. Add flour and whisk to form a roux; cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Reduce heat to low and add Gruyère and cheddar cheese, whisking until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add meatballs to the cheese sauce and coat evenly. Garnish with parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Yield: This recipe makes about 25-30 meatballs.
- Baking Option: Bake meatballs on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes until golden brown, then proceed with the cheese sauce.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce separately for up to 2-3 months.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 550kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg