If you’re looking to spice up your sandwich game, the Milanese Philly Cheesesteak is a delectable twist on the classic cheesesteak. Imagine tender slices of steak, veal, chicken, or turkey, pounded to a perfect 1/4 inch thickness, dipped in a crispy coating, and nestled between crusty hoagie rolls. This sandwich isn’t just about the meat; it’s a symphony of flavors with sautéed onions, vibrant bell peppers, and earthy mushrooms, all melted together under gooey cheese. It’s comfort food at its best, ideal for lunch or dinner. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Top Reasons to Make Milanese Philly Cheesesteak

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sautéed veggies, seasoned meat, and melty cheese creates a rich flavor profile.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be on your table in no time.
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the proteins or veggies based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Perfect for Meal Prep: These sandwiches hold up well, making them great for leftovers or meal prep.

The Ingredient Lineup

2 thin slices of steak, veal, chicken, or turkey, pounded to 1/4 inch thickness
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 medium yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, stems and seeds discarded, thinly sliced
1/2 green bell pepper, stems and seeds discarded, thinly sliced
1/2 yellow bell pepper, stems and seeds discarded, thinly sliced
4 ounces button or cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 slices Provolone or Swiss cheese
Mayonnaise
Grainy mustard
4 crusty hoagie rolls, lightly toasted

What’s in the Gear List

Meat Mallet: Essential for pounding the meat to the perfect thickness.
Skillet or Frying Pan: For cooking the meat and vegetables to perfection.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the meat and handling hot ingredients.
Spatula: Useful for assembling the sandwiches and flipping veggies.

Directions: Milanese Philly Cheesesteak

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Begin by placing your thin slices of steak, veal, chicken, or turkey between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even 1/4 inch thickness. This will ensure they cook quickly and remain tender.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three separate shallow bowls, place the all-purpose flour in one, the beaten egg in another, and the panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in the last bowl.

Step 3: Bread the Meat

Dredge each piece of meat in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil. Sauté the thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms until they are tender and caramelized, about 7-10 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 5: Cook the Meat

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the breaded meat and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Once the meat is cooked, place a slice of cheese on top of each piece and cover the skillet with a lid for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread mayonnaise and grainy mustard on the toasted hoagie rolls. Layer the sautéed veggies on the bottom, then add the cheesy meat on top. Close the sandwich and enjoy!

Healthier Substitutions

Use whole wheat hoagie rolls instead of regular rolls for added fiber.
Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed whole-grain cereal for a healthier coating.
Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter spread.
Opt for grilled chicken or turkey breast instead of fried for a leaner protein.

Notes on Ingredients

Using high-quality meat can elevate the taste of your Milanese Philly Cheesesteak. If you’re using chicken or turkey, make sure it’s thinly sliced to ensure even cooking. Fresh vegetables not only add color but also enhance the flavor profile of the sandwich. Feel free to mix and match your bell peppers based on what you prefer or have on hand.

Best Ways to Store

If you have leftovers, store the components separately. The bread can be kept in a bread bag, while the meat and veggies should be stored in airtight containers in the fridge. They will last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your sandwich again, simply reheat the meat and veggies in a skillet and assemble your sandwich fresh!

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my breading falls off during cooking?

Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the meat before cooking. Also, ensure the oil is hot enough when you add the meat to create a crispy crust.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or sprinkle a bit of red pepper flakes into the sautéed vegetables for an extra kick!

Can I use frozen meat for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh meat for optimal flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to fully thaw and pat dry before pounding and breading.

What sides pair well with Milanese Philly Cheesesteak?

Consider serving with a simple side salad, sweet potato fries, or a bowl of hearty soup for a complete meal.

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Wrap-Up

The Milanese Philly Cheesesteak is not just a meal; it’s an experience, combining the best elements of comfort food into one scrumptious package. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this sandwich is sure to impress. With its crispy exterior, tender meat, and vibrant veggies, it’s a dish that deserves a spot on your dinner table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this delightful creation!