Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls – Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistibly Savory
There are few things more satisfying than biting into something crispy on the outside and irresistibly cheesy and flavorful on the inside. Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are exactly that kind of treat. They bring together two favorites — the all-American Philly cheesesteak sandwich and the classic Asian-inspired egg roll — in one golden, crunchy bite. With seasoned beef, melted cheese, and a buttery crisp shell, these rolls are the ultimate appetizer, snack, or even dinner.
This recipe takes the spirit of Philadelphia and wraps it in something deliciously handheld. Whether you’re preparing them for a game night, a weekend get-together, or just craving a comforting meal, these egg rolls are always a hit.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
• 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced or finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese (or a mix of both)
For the Wrapping and Frying:
• 10–12 egg roll wrappers
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing edges)
• Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola oil)
Optional Dipping Sauce:
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• A dash of hot sauce or paprika for spice
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Filling
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers and cook until they begin to soften and turn translucent. The aroma of sizzling vegetables is the first sign that this dish will be special.
Add the thinly sliced or chopped steak to the pan and cook until it’s browned and tender. Season with salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce for that signature cheesesteak flavor. Once the meat is cooked, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly before adding the cheese. Stir in the shredded provolone or mozzarella until it’s melted and evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step creates that creamy, gooey center that makes every bite irresistible.
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with a corner pointing toward you (like a diamond shape). Spoon about two tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides tightly like an envelope. Roll it up toward the top corner, brushing the edge lightly with the beaten egg to seal it closed.
Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling until all your rolls are ready. Keep them covered with a damp towel as you work to prevent the wrappers from drying out.
3. Fry Until Golden and Crisp
Heat the oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each roll for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove them with tongs and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
The smell at this stage is pure magic — the combination of fried dough and melted cheese mixed with savory steak and onions makes everyone in the kitchen hover nearby, waiting for a taste.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the egg rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauce. The creamy mayo-ketchup sauce is a classic, but you can also try cheese sauce, ranch dressing, or even spicy aioli for a kick.
The result is a perfect blend of textures: crunchy on the outside, gooey and savory inside, with just enough chew to make each bite satisfying.
Tips for Success
• Use quality steak: Ribeye or sirloin gives the best flavor and tenderness. If you’re on a budget, finely chopped roast beef works well too.
• Don’t overfill the wrappers: Overstuffing can cause them to burst during frying. Two tablespoons of filling is usually perfect.
• Seal well: Make sure the edges are brushed with egg and pressed firmly to prevent leaks.
• Keep the oil at the right temperature: Too low and the rolls soak up oil; too high and they brown before the filling heats through.
• Air fryer option: For a lighter version, brush the egg rolls lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls combine the best of two worlds. They have the savory, beefy, cheesy comfort of a Philly cheesesteak, and the fun crunch of an egg roll. The contrast of textures makes them addictive — crispy on the outside, creamy inside.
They’re also versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, a party snack, or even a full meal with a side of fries or salad. They reheat beautifully in an air fryer, making them great for meal prep or leftovers.
Variations
• Cheese choices: While provolone is traditional, try mozzarella for stretchiness or pepper jack for a little spice.
• Add mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy depth that complements the beef beautifully.
• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Cheeseburger twist: Substitute ground beef for sliced steak and add a bit of mustard and pickles to mimic a cheeseburger egg roll.
• Baked version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden brown for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
These egg rolls taste incredible when served with:
• Classic cheese sauce or nacho dip
• Sweet chili sauce for a tangy contrast
• Garlic aioli or ranch dressing
• Marinara sauce for an Italian twist
Pair them with a crisp green salad, seasoned fries, or roasted veggies to round out the meal. For drinks, a cold soda, iced tea, or beer makes the perfect companion.
Final Thoughts
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are the ultimate comfort food. Every bite offers something special — the richness of tender beef, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the crunch of a perfectly fried shell. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and guaranteed to please anyone who tries them.
From family dinners to festive gatherings, this recipe fits any occasion. It’s proof that when you blend culinary traditions creatively, the results can be unforgettable. Once you make these, don’t be surprised if they become your most-requested dish for parties and weekends alike.