Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the crispy delight of an egg roll. The Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are a creative twist on traditional recipes, using everyday ingredients to create a mouth-watering snack or meal that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. With the perfect balance of melted cheese, tender steak, and crunchy vegetables wrapped in a crispy egg roll wrapper, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a party appetizer.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of steak, cheese, and vegetables provides a rich and satisfying flavor profile that’s easy to achieve with commonly found ingredients.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, the dish requires minimal cooking skills and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The egg roll format makes for a fun and unexpected way to enjoy a cheesesteak, sure to impress friends and family without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 package of egg roll wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
• 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works well)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: soy sauce, oyster sauce (for added depth of flavor)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Slice the steak into thin strips and season with salt and pepper. Slice the onions and bell peppers, and mince the garlic.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking until they are tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Step 3: To assemble the egg rolls, lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place a few slices of the cooked steak in the center of the wrapper, followed by some of the sautéed onion and bell pepper mixture, and finally a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Brush the edges of the wrapper with a little water, then fold the bottom half up over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
4. Step 4: To cook the egg rolls, heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place a few of the egg rolls in the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Drain the egg rolls on paper towels and serve hot.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overfill the egg rolls, as this can cause them to burst open during frying. It’s better to have a little less filling and ensure the egg roll can be sealed properly.
• For an extra crispy exterior, you can chill the assembled egg rolls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying.
• Experiment with different types of cheese and meats to find your favorite combination. For example, using provolone cheese or adding some diced ham can give the dish a unique twist.

Heat Control

When frying the egg rolls, it’s crucial to maintain the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked through. Ideally, you want the oil to be between 325°F and 375°F. This temperature range will ensure that the egg rolls cook evenly and come out crispy and golden. To check for doneness, look for a golden brown color and try one to ensure the filling is heated through.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the perfect crunch on the egg rolls is key to this dish. The crunch comes from frying the egg rolls until they are golden brown. To enhance the crunch, make sure the oil is at the right temperature, and don’t overcrowd the skillet. Frying in batches if necessary will help maintain the oil temperature and prevent the egg rolls from sticking together. For an extra crunchy coating, you can also chill the egg rolls before frying, as mentioned earlier.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier handling, keep the egg roll wrappers covered with a damp cloth until you’re ready to use them. This will prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
• To freeze the egg rolls for later use, assemble them up to the frying step, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put it in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the egg rolls to a freezer-safe bag or container for storage. When you’re ready to cook them, simply fry frozen egg rolls for an additional minute or two on each side, or until golden brown.

Storage Tips

• Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply fry them again until crispy or bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but unfried egg rolls, as mentioned in the pro kitchen tricks section. They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, presentation is key. You can package them in decorative take-out containers or wrap them individually in paper or foil and place them in a gift basket. Adding a side of dipping sauce, such as a sweet chili sauce or a tangy aioli, can elevate the gift. Consider including a recipe card or cooking instructions for the recipient to enjoy their gift at home.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling for an extra kick of heat.
• Mushroom and Onion: Sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions can add a depth of flavor and texture to the filling.
• BBQ Style: Use BBQ sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter, smokier flavor, and add some diced bacon for a smoky element.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the egg rolls turn out too greasy, it might be because the oil wasn’t hot enough. If they’re not crispy, try chilling them before frying or ensuring the oil is at the right temperature.
• Ingredient replacements: Don’t have ribeye? Try using top round or even chicken for a different twist. Out of cheese? Experiment with different types or combinations to find what you like best.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the egg rolls are too dark, they’re likely overcooked. If they’re pale and soft, they might not be cooked enough. Adjust the frying time based on the size of your egg rolls and the temperature of the oil.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the assembled egg rolls before frying. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Is it gluten-free? The egg roll wrappers typically contain gluten, but you can find gluten-free alternatives. Be sure to check the ingredients of the soy sauce or any seasonings you use as well.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two. You might need to fry the egg rolls in more batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are a fun and delicious twist on traditional dishes, combining the best of Philly cheesesteak flavors with the convenience and crunch of an egg roll. With their ease of preparation, impressive presentation, and versatility in ingredients, they’re perfect for any occasion, from a quick family dinner to a party appetizer. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and seasonings to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors and textures that these egg rolls have to offer.