Philly Cheesesteak Pizza

The smell of peppers and onions hitting a hot skillet takes me back to my first apartment kitchen where I accidentally set off the smoke alarm while attempting my first cheesesteak. My neighbor knocked to make sure everything was okay and ended up staying for dinner. That night taught me that some mistakes lead to the best discoveries and that great food has a way of bringing people together.

Last winter during a snowstorm my friends were craving comfort food but we had pizza dough and steak in the fridge. This mashup was born out of necessity but quickly became the most requested dish at every gathering since. Theres something magical about watching everyone pull away those first steaming slices with cheese stretching endlessly between the pizza and their plates.

Ingredients

• Prepared pizza dough: Using store bought dough keeps this weeknight friendly but homemade dough takes it to the next level if you have time
• Cornmeal: This little sprinkle prevents sticking and adds a subtle crunch to the bottom crust that makes all the difference
• Ribeye steak: The marbling in ribeye keeps the beef tender and flavorful even after quick cooking making it worth the investment
• Vegetable oil: High smoke point means you can get the skillet hot enough for proper searing without burning
• Bell peppers and onion: The classic trio that provides sweetness and texture contrast to the rich meat and cheese
• Provolone cheese: The traditional cheesesteak choice that melts beautifully and adds authentic tangy flavor
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates those incredible cheese pulls and balances the stronger provolone
• White cheddar: Optional but adds a sharp bite that cuts through the richness of the other cheeses

Instructions

Store cookware, spices, and prep tools within reach to keep cooking organized and efficient.

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Get your oven ready:

A screaming hot oven is the secret to restaurant style pizza crust so let it preheat thoroughly while you prep

Prep your pizza base:

Stretch the dough gently and dont worry about perfect circles rustic shapes bake up just as beautifully

Sear the steak:

Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan so each piece gets proper color

Soften the vegetables:

They should be tender but still have some bite since theyll cook more in the oven

Build your masterpiece:

Layer half the cheese first to create a seal that prevents the crust from getting soggy

Bake to perfection:

Watch for the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown in spots thats your signal its done

Finish and serve:

Let it rest just a couple of minutes so the cheese sets slightly for cleaner slicing

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My sister originally turned her nose up at the idea of cheesesteak on pizza but after one bite she was converted. Now she requests it every time she visits and claims its the only way her teenage son will eat peppers and onions without complaint. Watching previously picky eaters go back for slice after slice might be the best feeling in the world.

Making Ahead For Busy Nights

You can slice the vegetables and steak up to a day in advance storing them separately in the refrigerator. This makes the actual assembly incredibly fast on hectic weeknights. Just make sure to pat the steak dry before cooking to get a better sear.

Getting That Restaurant Style Crust

If you have a pizza stone use it but dont worry if you dont. Preheating your baking sheet in the oven creates a similar effect giving you that crispy bottom everyone loves. The key is getting the surface as hot as possible before the dough touches it.

Perfecting Your Toppings

Layer thoughtfully to avoid soggy spots. Start with a cheese barrier then distribute toppings evenly so every slice gets the same perfect balance of flavors.

• Dont overload with toppings or the crust wont cook through properly
• Let the pizza rest about 3 minutes before slicing to keep everything in place
• A pizza cutter makes cleaner cuts than a knife for this melty masterpiece

Provides cushioned comfort while cooking, prepping meals, washing dishes, and standing longer in the kitchen.

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Whether its game day or just Tuesday night this pizza turns ordinary moments into something worth celebrating. Grab some napkins and dig in.

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of steak works best?

Ribeye steak is ideal due to its rich marbling and beefy flavor. The fat content helps keep the tender slices juicy during the quick searing process.

→ Can I use pre-cooked steak?

Yes, leftover roast beef or pre-cooked steak works wonderfully. Simply slice thinly and add during assembly, skipping the initial searing step.

→ What if I don't have a pizza stone?

A standard baking sheet works perfectly fine. Preheat it in the oven for a crispier bottom crust, or bake directly on the prepared surface.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Prepare the steak and vegetables in advance and refrigerate. Assemble and bake when ready to serve for the freshest, crispiest results.

→ What other toppings work well?

Sautéed mushrooms are a fantastic addition. A drizzle of homemade cheese sauce or sliced pickled peppers adds authentic Philly flavors.