Crispy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: Your Ultimate Guide to a Savory Appetizer
Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls! Imagine the rich, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak – thinly sliced, tender steak, sweet bell peppers, and caramelized onions, all mingled with gooey, melty mozzarella cheese. Now, picture all of that deliciousness perfectly wrapped inside a golden-brown, irresistibly crispy egg roll wrapper. This fusion appetizer takes a beloved American sandwich and transforms it into a portable, crunchy delight that’s perfect for parties, game days, or a fun weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love These Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
This recipe is a stroke of culinary genius, brilliantly reinventing the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich into a convenient, crunchy, and utterly addictive egg roll. The magic lies in the contrast: a crunchy, golden-brown shell giving way to a warm, savory, and cheesy filling. It’s a flavor explosion that captures everything you adore about a traditional Philly, but in a fun, handheld format.
While a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich is legendary, and even Philly cheesesteak dip is a crowd-pleaser, these egg rolls stand out. They offer the perfect balance of tender steak, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all bound together with gloriously melted cheese. They are incredibly versatile, making a fantastic appetizer that literally flies off the plate at parties, but substantial enough to be a creative and satisfying dinner option. Forget messy bread rolls; these crispy pockets are easy to eat and packed with flavor in every bite!
Key Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the essential ingredients. You’ll find a complete list with precise measurements and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the very end of this post.
Ingredient Information & Smart Swaps
Understanding your ingredients is key to successful cooking. Here’s a deeper dive into what you’ll need and how you can customize this recipe to your taste or what you have on hand:
- BEEF: For the most authentic experience, we recommend using flank steak due to its rich flavor and ability to be sliced thinly for tenderness. Other excellent choices include thinly sliced ribeye (a premium option for classic cheesesteaks), top round, or sirloin. For a quicker, budget-friendly alternative, you can absolutely use ground beef. Just ensure it’s cooked and crumbled well, then drained of any excess fat.
- EGG ROLL WRAPPER: These delicate, thin wrappers are the cornerstone of your crispy egg rolls. You’ll typically find them in the refrigerated section of your local grocery store, often near fresh pasta or tofu. Ensure they are fresh and handle them gently to prevent tearing.
- VEGGIES: A colorful mix of bell peppers (green and red add great visual appeal and flavor), onions, and mushrooms provides the classic aromatic base for your Philly cheesesteak filling. Feel free to customize! You can omit mushrooms if you’re not a fan, or add other vegetables like jalapeños for a spicy kick, a handful of fresh spinach, or even some thinly sliced zucchini for added nutrients. The key is to sauté them until tender to ensure they cook fully inside the egg roll.
- CHEESE: The melty, gooey cheese is non-negotiable! Mozzarella is a fantastic choice for its excellent melt and mild flavor that allows the steak to shine. Provolone offers a slightly sharper, more traditional cheesesteak flavor. For that iconic “cheese whiz” effect found in some Philly shops, sliced deli American cheese (avoiding the individually wrapped singles for best melt) works wonderfully, creating an incredibly creamy texture within the roll.
- OIL FOR FRYING: You’ll need an oil with a high smoke point for deep frying. Canola oil, vegetable oil, peanut oil, or safflower oil are all excellent choices that will give your egg rolls that perfect golden-brown crisp without imparting unwanted flavors.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you through the process, helping you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. For a convenient printable version, complete with all measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Steak: Begin by thinly slicing your flank steak against the grain into bite-sized pieces. This technique ensures maximum tenderness. Place these steak pieces into a large mixing bowl, ready for seasoning.
- Season the Meat: In a separate small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the garlic salt, paprika, and onion powder. This blend of spices will infuse your steak with rich, savory flavor. Pour this aromatic mixture over the steak in the large bowl and toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
- Cook the Steak: Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned meat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the steak is no longer pink and is beautifully browned. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve a good sear rather than steaming the meat.
- Drain Excess Liquid: Transfer the cooked steak into a colander. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to drain any excess liquid. This step is crucial to prevent your egg rolls from becoming soggy and to ensure a crisp end product.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Return the same skillet to the heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add your chopped bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly softened, typically about 3-4 minutes. You want them cooked but still with a little texture.
- Chop the Filling: For a uniform filling that’s easy to wrap and eat, place half of the cooked meat and sautéed vegetables into a food chopper. Pulse quickly, just 2-3 times, enough to break the mixture into smaller, manageable pieces. The goal is a chunky texture, not a fine paste.
CHEF’S TIP: If you don’t have a food chopper, a sharp Chef’s knife works perfectly. Simply finely chop the meat and vegetables on a cutting board until they reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Filling: Once chopped, combine the pulsed meat and vegetable mixture with the remaining unchopped meat/veggie mixture in a bowl. This ensures a nice variety of textures in your filling.
- Prepare to Wrap: Lay your egg roll wrappers out onto a clean, flat work surface. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you work, as dry wrappers can crack easily.
- Fill the Wrappers: To the center of each egg roll wrapper, add a generous heaping tablespoon of your chosen cheese, followed by approximately 2 tablespoons of the meat and vegetable mixture. Don’t overfill, as this makes wrapping difficult.
- Moisten the Edges: Dip your finger in a small bowl of water and lightly moisten all four edges of the egg roll wrapper. This acts as a sealant, ensuring your egg rolls stay securely closed during frying.
- Fold and Roll: Carefully fold two opposite sides of the egg roll wrapper diagonally over the filling, meeting in the middle. Then, bring one of the open ends up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly with your fingers to compact the filling. Continue to roll the wrapper tightly away from you until you reach the opposite corner, creating a neat, compact cylinder. Repeat this process for all remaining egg rolls.
- Preheat Oil: In a deep fryer or a large, deep-sided skillet, heat your preferred frying oil to 375°F (190°C). An accurate thermometer is essential here to maintain consistent oil temperature for perfect crispiness.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Carefully place a few egg rolls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for approximately 7 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and begin to float to the top. This indicates they are thoroughly cooked and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Using tongs, remove the fried egg rolls from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over paper towels. This allows excess oil to drain off, keeping them wonderfully crisp. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
For deep frying, it’s crucial to use an oil with a high smoke point that won’t impart strong flavors. Excellent choices for your Philly cheesesteak egg rolls include canola oil, peanut oil, vegetable oil, or safflower oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures required for frying, ensuring your egg rolls cook evenly and achieve that desired crispness without burning.
Absolutely! No deep fryer, no problem. You can just as easily make these delicious egg rolls in a large deep-sided skillet or a Dutch oven. Fill the pan about halfway with your chosen frying oil (canola, vegetable, or peanut oil are great). Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C), using a candy thermometer to accurately monitor the temperature. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
To keep your leftover egg rolls fresh and delicious, allow them to cool completely to room temperature first. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in an air fryer or a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and re-crisped. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy.
Yes, these egg rolls freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prep or future cravings! Once they’re fully cooked and cooled, transfer the egg rolls to a large freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then crisp them up in the oven or air fryer. You can also freeze them *before* cooking! Simply assemble the egg rolls, arrange them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To cook from frozen, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the frying time or bake them at a slightly lower temperature for longer to ensure the filling cooks through.
Absolutely! For a healthier alternative, these egg rolls can be baked or air-fried. To air fry, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking oil, then cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the egg rolls on a baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden. Results may vary slightly in crispiness compared to deep frying, but they will still be delicious!
The key to preventing your egg rolls from unraveling is a proper sealing technique. Always moisten the edges of the wrapper with water before folding and rolling. Make sure to roll them tightly, ensuring the filling is snug. A firm, tight roll will help the wrapper maintain its shape and seal during the frying process. Don’t overfill the wrappers, as this puts stress on the seams.
Serving Suggestions for Your Crispy Creation
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are an absolute showstopper and a guaranteed favorite at any gathering, whether it’s a casual game day, a lively party, or simply a fun family meal. Their handheld nature makes them incredibly convenient for guests to enjoy. For an even more exciting experience, offer a variety of dipping sauces to complement their rich flavor:
- Classic Cheese Dip: Recreate the authentic cheesesteak experience with a creamy cheese dip or a homemade cheddar sauce.
- Ranch Dressing: The cool, tangy creaminess of ranch provides a delightful contrast to the savory filling.
- Mayo-Ketchup (Fry Sauce): A simple mix of mayonnaise and ketchup offers a familiar, comforting flavor that pairs wonderfully.
- Marinara Sauce: A warm marinara can add a touch of Italian-American flair.
- Yum Yum Sauce: For a unique, sweet, and tangy twist, try serving them with yum yum sauce, often found at hibachi restaurants.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: If you love a kick, blend sriracha with mayo for a quick and easy spicy dip.
You can also serve these alongside a crisp, fresh green salad or a light coleslaw to balance the richness, making them a complete and satisfying meal.
Explore More Delicious Egg Roll Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the versatility of egg rolls, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of creative fillings waiting to be discovered. Here are some more fantastic egg roll recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure:
- Shrimp Egg Rolls
- Reuben Egg Rolls
- Big Mac Egg Rolls
- Corned Beef Egg Rolls
I absolutely adore sharing my passion for baking and cooking, along with all my kitchen experiences, with each and every one of you! Keeping up with new recipes can be a challenge, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a fresh recipe is posted. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes directly to your inbox!
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak chopped into bite sized pieces
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 Tablespoon garlic salt
- 1 Tablespoon paprika
- 1 Tablespoon onion powder
- ½ green bell pepper chopped
- ½ red bell pepper chopped
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 4 ounces chopped mushrooms such as baby bella or white button
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 11 egg roll wrappers
- oil for frying
Things You’ll Need
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Mixing bowls
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Large skillet
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Colander
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Mini food chopper
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Deep fryer or a large deep-sided skillet
Before You Begin
- No Deep Fryer? No Problem! If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can easily make these egg rolls in a large deep-sided skillet or a Dutch oven. Fill it about halfway with your chosen frying oil (like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil) and heat it to 375°F (190°C), using a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- Steak Choices: While flank steak is used in this recipe for its texture and flavor, you have flexibility. Thinly sliced ribeye is a premium option, or you can use top round, sirloin, or even ground beef for a different but equally delicious result.
- Cheese Alternatives: Mozzarella offers a classic melt, but feel free to experiment with provolone for a sharper, more traditional Philly taste, or use deli American cheese (avoiding individually wrapped slices) for an incredibly creamy, “whiz”-like texture.
- Prepping Wrappers: Keep your egg roll wrappers covered with a damp towel while you work to prevent them from drying out and cracking. This makes them easier to handle and ensures a better seal.
- Do Not Overfill: While tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overfilling can make it difficult to roll the egg rolls tightly and can lead to them bursting during frying. Stick to the recommended amount.
Instructions
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Place the bite-sized pieces of flank steak into a large mixing bowl. Ensure the steak is thinly sliced against the grain for optimal tenderness.1 pound flank steak
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In a separate small bowl, combine 2 Tablespoons of the olive oil, along with the garlic salt, paprika, and onion powder. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. Pour this seasoning mixture over the steak in the large bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure the meat is evenly coated with all the spices.1 Tablespoon garlic salt, 1 Tablespoon paprika, 1 Tablespoon onion powder
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Place a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up completely before adding the steak.
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Add the seasoned meat to the hot skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning, until the steak is no longer pink and has a nice caramelized crust. Avoid overcooking to keep the steak tender.
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Once cooked, transfer the meat into a colander. Allow it to sit and drain any excess liquid; this step is important for preventing soggy egg rolls.
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Return the skillet to the heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender-crisp, typically about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their flavors.1/2 green bell pepper, 1/2 red bell pepper, 4 ounces chopped mushrooms, 1/2 cup chopped onion
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To create a uniform filling that’s easy to roll and ensures every bite is flavorful, place half of the cooked meat and vegetables into a food chopper. Pulse quickly, 2-3 times, just enough to break them into smaller, more consistent pieces. Be careful not to over-process; you want a chunky mixture, not a paste.
Chef’s Tip: If you do not have a food chopper, simply use a sharp Chef’s knife to finely chop the meat and vegetables on a cutting board until they are in small, uniform pieces.
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Combine the pulsed meat and vegetable mixture with the remaining unchopped meat/veggie mixture in a clean bowl. Stir them together until well integrated.
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Lay the egg roll wrappers flat on a clean work surface. Keep any unused wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.11 egg roll wrappers
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To the center of each egg roll wrapper, add a heaping tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by approximately 2 tablespoons of the combined meat and vegetable mixture. Be mindful not to overfill.8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
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Using your finger, lightly moisten all the edges of the egg roll wrapper with a little water. This will create a seal, ensuring the egg roll stays closed during frying.
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To roll, fold two opposite sides of the egg roll wrapper diagonally over the filling, meeting in the center. Then, bring one of the open ends up and over the filling. Use your fingers to tuck the end of the wrapper firmly under the filling, creating a tight pocket. Continue to roll the wrapper all the way to the opposite corner, forming a snug, cylindrical egg roll.
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Preheat your deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). If using a skillet, heat your oil to the same temperature, monitored with a candy thermometer.
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Carefully place a few egg rolls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for approximately 7 minutes, or until the egg rolls are beautifully browned, crispy, and begin to float to the top of the oil.
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Remove the fried egg rolls with tongs and place them on a wire rack set over a layer of paper towels. This allows any excess oil to drain off, keeping them perfectly crisp. Serve warm and enjoy!
Expert Tips & FAQs
- You can use canola, peanut, vegetable, or safflower oil to deep fry your Philly cheesesteak egg rolls, all of which have high smoke points.
- Store the cooled egg rolls in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To re-crisp the wrapper, reheat in an air fryer or oven until warmed through. Avoid the microwave for reheating as it can make them soggy.
- Freezing Instructions: These egg rolls freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled after cooking, transfer them to a large zip-top bag or an airtight freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or air fryer for best results. You can also freeze them *before* cooking; simply assemble, freeze solid on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen by adding extra frying/baking time.
- Air Fryer/Oven Baking Option: For a less oily alternative, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes (flipping halfway), or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes (flipping halfway), after lightly spraying them with oil.
- Preventing Blowouts: Ensure the edges of your egg roll wrappers are well-moistened and that the rolls are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during frying.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.