Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla Recipe

The Best Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla Recipe Ever Created

Melding two culinary classics, this philly cheesesteak quesadilla recipe bridges street food traditions with mouthwatering creativity.

Tender strips of beef sizzle alongside caramelized onions and peppers, promising an explosion of flavor.

The delicate tortilla cradles melted cheese and savory meat in every crispy bite.

You’ll fall in love with how simple ingredients can create such a remarkable fusion dish.

Rich, hearty, and packed with bold southwestern-inspired notes, this recipe transforms an American favorite into something extraordinary.

Each quesadilla delivers a perfect balance of meat, cheese, and crunch that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla Is a Crowd Pleaser

  • Speedy Flavor Fusion: Combine classic Philly cheesesteak with quesadilla for a quick, delicious meal that merges two beloved cuisines in one fantastic dish.
  • Minimal Cooking Skills Required: Perfect for home cooks of all levels, this recipe demands basic skillet techniques and simple ingredient handling without complicated steps.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Packed with savory steak, melted cheese, and colorful vegetables, this quesadilla satisfies hunger and delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.
  • Versatile Meal Option: Works great for casual dinners, game day gatherings, or spontaneous lunch cravings with easy preparation and crowd-winning appeal.

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla

Main Protein:
  • Steak: Thinly sliced beef that provides the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor and meaty texture.
Vegetables:
  • Onion, Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables that add sweetness, crunch, and traditional Philly cheesesteak aromatics.
Cheese:
  • Mozzarella, Provolone Cheese: Melty cheeses that create a creamy, rich filling with classic cheesesteak flavor.
Cooking Essentials:
  • Olive Oil: Helps to sauté and brown the steak and vegetables with a light, clean taste.
  • Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the meat and vegetables.
Wrap:
  • Tortillas: Crispy flour tortillas that serve as the quesadilla base and create a golden, crunchy exterior.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla

Step 1: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Toss in the steak slices and cook until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust, about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Carefully transfer the seared steak to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Saute Vegetable Medley

In the same skillet, introduce the onion and bell pepper.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.

Cook the vegetables until they become tender and slightly caramelized, roughly 5 minutes.

Step 3: Reunite Steak and Vegetables

Bring the seared steak back to the skillet, gently mixing it with the sautéed vegetables to create a harmonious blend of flavors.

Step 4: Prepare Cheesy Canvas

Spread out the tortillas on a clean, flat surface.

Generously scatter a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheeses over half of each tortilla.

Step 5: Assemble Quesadilla Masterpiece

Distribute the steak and vegetable mixture evenly across the cheese-covered tortilla halves.

Carefully fold the tortillas in half, creating a half-moon shape that encases the delicious filling.

Step 6: Crisp to Perfection

Clean the skillet and return it to medium heat.

Carefully place the quesadillas in the pan, cooking until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and become wonderfully crispy on both sides, approximately 3 minutes per side.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

Prepare for a flavor explosion that combines the best of Philly cheesesteak with the classic quesadilla!

Pro Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla

  • Cut beef against the grain into super-thin strips for maximum tenderness and quick cooking.
  • Let cheese sit at room temperature before cooking to ensure smooth, even melting inside quesadillas.
  • Use medium heat when grilling quesadillas to prevent burning while achieving a perfectly crispy golden exterior.
  • Pat steak and vegetables dry before cooking to prevent soggy quesadillas and ensure a crisp texture.
  • Add extra seasoning like garlic powder or steak seasoning to boost the flavor profile of the meat and vegetables.

Variations for Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla

  • Vegetarian Quesadilla: Replace steak with portobello mushrooms or plant-based steak alternative, maintaining the same cooking method and vegetable sauté technique.
  • Chicken Cheesesteak Quesadilla: Swap beef with thinly sliced chicken breast, seasoning similarly and following the original recipe steps.
  • Low-Carb Wrap Version: Use lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas instead of traditional flour tortillas, keeping the cheese and filling ingredients consistent.
  • Spicy Southwest Variation: Add jalapeños to the vegetable mix, incorporate pepper jack cheese, and include a dash of chili powder for extra heat and flavor complexity.

Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla

  • Party Platter Perfect: Slice quesadillas into small triangles for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that guests can easily grab and enjoy during game nights or casual gatherings.
  • Dipping Delights: Serve with classic condiments like sour cream, salsa, or a zesty chipotle mayo to add extra flavor and enhance the quesadilla's southwestern fusion style.
  • Balanced Meal Companion: Pair with a fresh side salad or coleslaw to balance the rich, cheesy quesadilla and add a crisp, light element to the hearty main dish.
  • Restaurant-Style Presentation: Plate the golden-brown quesadilla wedges on a wooden cutting board with a small ramekin of dipping sauce for a gourmet, Instagram-worthy presentation.

How to Store Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla

  • Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Warm quesadillas in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side. This method helps restore the crispy exterior and melty cheese.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Place quesadillas on a baking sheet and heat for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming.
  • Quick heat in microwave for 30-45 seconds, but texture may become slightly soggy. Best used when you're in a hurry and don't mind sacrificing crispiness.

FAQs

  • What are the best cuts of steak for this recipe?

Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work perfectly. Choose thin-sliced cuts for quick cooking and tender texture.

  • Can I make this recipe spicy?

Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the steak mixture, or sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat.

  • Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the steak and vegetable mixture ahead of time and assemble quesadillas when ready to eat.

  • What cheese alternatives can I use?

Swiss, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese are great substitutes for mozzarella and provolone.

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Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla Recipe

Philly Cheesesteak Quesadilla Recipe


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4.8 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Philly cheesesteak quesadilla blends classic American sandwich flavors with Mexican-style comfort. Crispy tortillas cradle tender beef, melted provolone, and caramelized onions, offering you a mouthwatering fusion that satisfies cravings in one delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 0.5 pounds (226 grams) ribeye steak (thinly sliced)

Vegetables:

  • 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)

Cheese and Tortillas:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 4 large flour tortillas

Seasoning and Oil:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Sear the steak slices in hot olive oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until achieving a rich golden-brown exterior. Transfer meat to a separate plate.
  2. Using the same skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers with salt and pepper until vegetables become soft and slightly caramelized, approximately 5 minutes.
  3. Reintroduce the browned steak into the skillet, gently combining with the sautéed vegetables to distribute flavors evenly.
  4. Arrange tortillas on a clean work surface and generously sprinkle mozzarella and provolone cheeses across one half of each tortilla.
  5. Distribute the steak and vegetable mixture uniformly over the cheese-covered tortilla sections.
  6. Carefully fold the tortillas in half, creating a half-moon shape that encases the filling.
  7. Clean the skillet and heat to medium, then carefully place quesadillas in the pan. Cook for approximately 3 minutes per side until achieving a crisp, golden-brown exterior.
  8. Remove from heat, slice into triangular wedges, and serve immediately while hot and melted.

Notes

  • Slice steak against the grain for maximum tenderness and easier chewing during cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure steak reaches desired doneness without overcooking, keeping it juicy and flavorful.
  • Choose thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin for authentic Philly cheesesteak texture and rich taste.
  • Consider swapping traditional cheese for low-fat options or dairy-free alternatives to accommodate different dietary needs.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 625 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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