Philly Cheesesteak Sauce

Whether you are looking for a companion to serve with your Philly cheesesteak or just a favorite go-to sauce in the kitchen, this is the one you'll want to bookmark.

Ready in just 12 minutes, this authentic Philly cheesesteak sauce is a perfect addition to your cheesesteak or any other meal you can think of, from burgers and sandwiches to pasta and French fries.

This is a super easy condiment that you will love having on hand. Use this easy Philly cheesesteak sauce to spice up any meal, from tacos to hot dogs, roasted vegetables, and more

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This authentic Philly cheesesteak sauce recipe is a winner due to its simplicity, versatility, and adaptability.

Quick and easy to make, it requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under 15 minutes. This easy cheesesteak sauce is the perfect condiment to add some kick to any busy weeknight meal.

Its customizable nature allows you to change the recipe to suit your dietary or taste preferences. Tweak the seasoning, adjust the cheese, or even make it dairy-free.

In addition to our classic Philly cheesesteak, this sauce is a delightful companion to burgers, sandwiches, fries, and even grilled vegetables, adding a rich, savory flavor to any dish. Its creamy texture and tangy flavors will enhance a variety of meals, making it a versatile kitchen staple.

Ingredients

Butter:

Butter adds richness and depth to the Philly cheesesteak sauce and contributes to the smooth, creamy texture that this sauce is known for. If you're looking for a substitute, margarine or plant-based butter works well for a similar taste and consistency. You can use olive or avocado oil for a different flavor profile, though these will slightly alter the sauce's traditional taste.

Garlic Powder:

This recipe for cheesesteak sauce simplifies the seasoning by adding garlic powder and salt. Garlic is a tasty option, but other seasonings to consider experimenting with include onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, or hot sauce for an extra level of heat. Alternatively, you can explore herbs like rosemary, oregano, or thyme for more earthy aromatic flavors.

Milk:

Milk adds to the sauce's creamy texture, and you can use any kind of milk that you have on hand. The higher the fat content in the milk, the creamier the texture of your sauce. However, if you don't want to use milk to create your cheesesteake sauce, substitutes like half and half, heavy cream, unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk can also be used in its place.

Cheese Whiz:

Cheese Whiz is a traditional component of Philly Cheesesteak Sauce, known for its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sharp, tangy flavor. However, if you are looking for something a little different to add to your sauce, you can replace it with a variety of delicious cheese options. Sharp cheddar, American, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses can be used in addition to any of your favorite plant-based or dairy-free cheeses.

Salt:

Since this Philly cheesesteak sauce already has a lot of salt added between the Cheese Whiz, garlic powder, and potentially the butter, it's essential to add the salt to taste at the very end. Add as much or as little as is needed to achieve your desired flavor.

How to Make Homemade Cheesesteak Sauce

Step One: 

Begin by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Step Two: 

As the butter starts to melt, mix in the garlic powder. Ensure to remove any lumps for a smooth consistency.

Step Three: 

Once the butter has just melted, slowly stir in the milk. 

Step Four:

Add the Cheese Whiz to the sauce and stir continuously until it is melted. It is important to stir continuously as the milk and cheese can burn very quickly otherwise.

Step Five: 

Season with salt to taste, being careful not to oversalt. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat, simmer for 10 minutes, and remove from heat.

Step Six: 

Drizzle your sauce on a delicious Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, serve, and enjoy!

Tips

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce towards the end of cooking. Stir well and let it simmer until thickened to your desired consistency.
• Feel free to customize the sauce to your taste preferences. You can add extra spices like onion powder, paprika, or even a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

What to Serve With Traditional Philly Cheesesteak Sauce

If you are wondering what to serve with this delicious Philly cheesesteak sauce, it pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile condiment to keep on hand. Serve it drizzled over a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, where its rich, savory flavors enhance the tender, thinly sliced ribeye and melted cheese. It's also an excellent dip for crispy fries or onion rings, adding a flavorful punch. For a hearty meal, use the sauce as a topping for burgers or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps. Additionally, it complements grilled vegetables and can even be used as a unique sauce for pasta or rice dishes, making every bite deliciously satisfying.

FAQs

Can I make my homemade cheesesteak sauce spicy?

Yes, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to give the sauce a spicy kick.

For how long can leftover Philly cheesesteak sauce be kept fresh?

Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Sauce can be kept fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

What is the best way to reheat this classic cheesesteak sauce without losing flavor?

Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid using high heat to prevent burning or altering the flavor.

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