Philly cheesesteak sliders on Hawaiian rolls bring a fun twist to a classic favorite. We love how the sweet, soft rolls perfectly balance the savory, tender steak and melted cheese. These sliders are great for game day, parties, or any time you want a handheld bite bursting with flavor.
This recipe captures the essence of the iconic Philly cheesesteak but makes it easier to share and enjoy. With simple ingredients and quick prep, we can whip up these sliders in no time. Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a new favorite at our gatherings.
Ingredients
To make our delicious Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls, we need a combination of savory filling, soft sweet rolls, and optional extras to elevate the flavors. We’ll start by gathering everything required for the classic cheesesteak filling, then the Hawaiian rolls, and finally some toppings and condiments to customize our sliders.
For the Philly Cheesesteak Filling
- 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye steak (or sirloin for leaner option)
- 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional but highly recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or American cheese if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
For the Hawaiian Rolls
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (preferably King’s Hawaiian, split horizontally)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing the tops before baking)
Optional Toppings and Condiments
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | Adds creamy richness |
| Dijon mustard | Introduces a tangy layer of flavor |
| Pickled jalapeños | Adds a spicy kick |
| Lettuce leaves | Provides fresh crunch |
| Tomato slices | Adds juicy freshness |
Each element combines to create the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and melty in every bite of our Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls. Having these ingredients ready ensures a smooth and quick assembly process.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls, having the right equipment is essential for a smooth and efficient cooking process. Below is a detailed list of what we need to prepare this delicious dish:
- Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan
Ideal for sautéing the thinly sliced ribeye steak, onions, peppers, and mushrooms evenly without sticking. The high heat will help develop rich, caramelized flavors.
- Sharp chef’s knife
For finely slicing the ribeye steak, vegetables, and optional toppings. A sharp blade ensures clean cuts which help with even cooking and presentation.
- Cutting board
A sturdy surface provides safety and convenience when chopping ingredients.
- Mixing bowl
Handy for tossing the sautéed steak and veggies together, and for mixing any spread or sauce.
- Baking dish or oven-safe pan (around 9×13 inches)
Perfect to arrange the Hawaiian rolls filled with cheesesteak mixture for the final baking and melting of cheese.
- Measuring spoons
To measure precise amounts of butter and any seasonings, improving consistency.
- Pastry brush
Useful for evenly spreading melted butter on the slider tops before baking to achieve a golden crust.
- Spatula or tongs
For stirring and flipping the ingredients while cooking without breaking the steak slices.
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
For shredding provolone or mozzarella to melt perfectly over the filling in the sliders.
| Equipment | Purpose | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Non-stick skillet | Sauté steak and vegetables | Preheat on medium-high heat |
| Chef’s knife | Slice steak and vegetables | Keep blade sharp |
| Cutting board | Safe chopping surface | Use separate boards for meat |
| Mixing bowl | Combine filling ingredients | Large enough for tossing |
| Baking dish | Oven baking & melting cheese | Lightly grease for easy clean |
| Measuring spoons | Accurate seasoning & butter amounts | Use for consistency |
| Pastry brush | Buttering slider tops | Apply evenly |
| Spatula or tongs | Stirring and flipping | Avoid breaking steak slices |
| Cheese grater | Shredding cheese | Use fresh cheese |
By preparing these tools ahead, we ensure the cooking process for our Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls is seamless, and every bite is consistently delicious.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls, let’s ensure every ingredient is prepped perfectly. Proper prep saves time and guarantees every slider bursts with flavor.
Preparing the Beef
- Begin with thinly sliced ribeye steak, the heart of our sliders.
- If your steak isn’t pre-sliced, freeze it for 30 minutes to firm it up, then slice as thinly as possible against the grain.
- Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season the beef lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Set aside at room temperature while we prepare the vegetables.
Slicing the Vegetables
- Use a sharp chef’s knife to finely slice:
- 1 green bell pepper into thin strips,
- 1 yellow onion into thin half-moons,
- Optional: ½ cup mushrooms, sliced thinly.
- Arrange all sliced vegetables on a cutting board for easy access.
- Having everything sliced and ready allows us to sauté quickly and maintain the vegetables’ natural sweetness and crunch.
Preparing the Hawaiian Rolls
- Grab one package of Hawaiian sweet rolls (about 12 rolls).
- Slice the entire pack horizontally in half—do not separate individual rolls. This keeps the filling contained and makes baking simpler.
- Place the bottom half into your baking dish.
- Lightly toast the top half in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes if you like a slight crunch on your slider tops.
- Set aside a tablespoon of melted butter for brushing the tops after assembling the sliders to achieve that rich, golden finish.
| Prep Item | Tip | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ribeye Steak | Freeze before slicing | Easier to cut thin slices |
| Vegetables | Slice uniformly thin | Even cooking and texture |
| Hawaiian Rolls | Slice horizontally as a whole | Simplifies assembly and baking |
| Butter | Reserve for brushing | Adds moisture and golden color |
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps carefully for perfectly cooked Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls that burst with flavor in every bite.
Cooking the Beef and Vegetables
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the hot pan. When shimmering, add the thinly sliced ribeye steak in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure a good sear.
- Season the beef lightly with salt and pepper during cooking.
- Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes without stirring to develop a rich brown crust. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes until just cooked through.
- Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and reduce heat to medium.
- Add sliced onions, green bell peppers, and optional mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften and caramelize slightly.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Mix with vegetables and cook together for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors and ensure even heat.
Melting the Cheese
- Lower the heat to medium-low.
- Evenly sprinkle 6 ounces of sliced or shredded provolone or American cheese over the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Cover the skillet immediately with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Allow the cheese to melt slowly for 2-3 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid to retain steam which helps melt the cheese evenly.
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, turn off the heat and prepare for slider assembly.
| Step | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Searing beef | 2-3 minutes | Medium-high | Avoid overcrowding |
| Cooking vegetables | 5-7 minutes | Medium | Caramelize slightly for sweetness |
| Melting cheese | 2-3 minutes | Medium-low | Use lid to trap steam |
Our method ensures tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and that signature melty cheese that defines the Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls.
Assembling the Philly Cheesesteak Sliders
Assembling our Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls brings all the prepped ingredients together, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and melty flavors. Following precise layering and finishing touches will ensure every slider bursts with flavor and looks as appetizing as it tastes.
Layering the Ingredients on Rolls
We start by carefully layering the components onto the Hawaiian rolls, which are sliced horizontally but left connected for easy handling. Here is the step-by-step layering process:
- Bottom Roll Layer: Place the bottom half of each Hawaiian roll on a clean surface or baking dish.
- Beef and Vegetable Mixture: Evenly spread a generous portion of the sautéed ribeye steak, caramelized onions, green peppers, and optional mushrooms on each roll bottom.
- Cheese Addition: Add extra slices or shredded provolone or American cheese over the hot beef and veggies if more cheesiness is desired. The residual heat will slightly melt this extra cheese for luscious texture.
- Top Roll Layer: Gently place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls over the layered filling, sandwiching everything neatly.
| Step Number | Ingredient Layer | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bottom Hawaiian roll half | Use fresh sweet rolls |
| 2 | Ribeye and vegetables | Spread evenly for balance |
| 3 | Additional cheese (optional) | Adds extra meltiness |
| 4 | Top Hawaiian roll half | Press gently to secure |
Final Touches Before Serving
Before serving, it’s essential to add those golden finishing touches to elevate the sliders:
- Brush the Tops with Melted Butter: Using the reserved melted butter, brush the tops of the Hawaiian rolls liberally. This step will give the sliders a shiny golden crust after baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. This melts the cheese fully and crisps the rolls slightly.
- Optional Garnishes: Add pickled jalapeños, lettuce, or tomato slices right before serving for contrast and freshness.
- Serving Tip: Use a sharp serrated knife to cut the sliders apart if they were baked connected to serve individual portions easily and keep the layers intact.
“The key to unforgettable Philly Cheesesteak Sliders lies in meticulous assembly and the final buttery bake that crisps the sweet Hawaiian rolls just right.”
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls experience, pairing them with complementary sides and serving options is essential. Here are our favorite ways to serve and enjoy these sliders:
Side Dishes to Complement the Sliders
We recommend serving these sliders with light and flavorful sides that balance their rich, cheesy goodness. Consider these options:
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory steak and melted cheese.
- Classic Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds freshness and texture contrast.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled jalapeños, carrots, or cucumbers add zesty brightness and cut through the richness.
- Garden Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet, crispy | Balances savory richness |
| Classic Coleslaw | Tangy, crunchy | Adds freshness, texture contrast |
| Pickled Vegetables | Zesty, acidic | Brightens and cuts richness |
| Garden Salad | Light, citrusy | Refreshes palate |
Beverage Pairings
Pairing beverages wisely enhances the overall meal. Here are our top picks:
- Craft Beer: A hoppy IPA or smooth amber ale complements the bold steak flavor.
- Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened iced tea refreshes without overpowering.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Keeps things light and adds a touch of acidity.
- Red Wine: A medium-bodied red, such as a Merlot or Zinfandel, pairs well with the beef.
Serving Tips for Presentation and Flavor
- Warm the Sliders Before Serving: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore melty cheese and soft rolls.
- Use a Serrated Knife: To slice the baked slider sandwich evenly without squashing the rolls.
- Add Fresh Toppings at the Table: Serve optional toppings like shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, or pickled jalapeños on the side so guests can customize each slider.
“Serving our Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls with these thoughtful sides and tips ensures each bite is as indulgent and flavorful as the first.”
Quick Guide: Serving Suggestions Overview
| Serving Element | Recommendations | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Side Dishes | Sweet potato fries, coleslaw | Texture, flavor balance |
| Beverages | Craft beer, iced tea | Complement or refresh palate |
| Presentation Tips | Warm sliders, slice carefully | Maintains texture and flavor |
| Toppings | Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños | Customization and freshness |
By combining our Philly Cheesesteak Sliders with these serving suggestions, we create a meal that’s perfectly balanced in flavor and presentation every time.
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
To ensure our Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls stay fresh and delicious, planning ahead and using proper storage methods are essential. Here are our best make-ahead tips and storage guidelines to keep these sliders tasting perfect for game day or any gathering.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Cook the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare the sautéed ribeye steak, onions, bell peppers, and optional mushrooms. Cool the mixture completely before refrigerating.
- Assemble the sliders just before baking. While you can slice the Hawaiian rolls and prepare the melted butter in advance, avoid assembling the sliders too early to prevent soggy rolls.
- Pre-measure cheese and butter. Store shredded cheese and melted butter separately in airtight containers for quick assembly.
Storage Guidelines
| Item | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked beef and vegetables | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 3 days | Cool completely before sealing |
| Assembled sliders (unbaked) | Covered with foil in fridge | Up to 24 hours | Brush with butter just before baking |
| Baked sliders | Airtight container in fridge | 2 to 3 days | Reheat gently to retain moisture |
| Hawaiian rolls (sliced) | Sealed plastic bag at room temp | Up to 2 days | For best texture, do not refrigerate |
Reheating Instructions
“To preserve the signature melty cheese and buttery top crust, reheat sliders in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Cover loosely with foil if you want to avoid over-browning.”
Freezing Tips
- Freeze the cooked filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling and baking.
- Avoid freezing assembled sliders to maintain roll texture and cheese consistency.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we can enjoy our Philly Cheesesteak Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls without sacrificing flavor or texture even on the busiest days.
Conclusion
Philly cheesesteak sliders on Hawaiian rolls bring together bold flavors and a touch of sweetness for a crowd-pleasing treat. They’re perfect for any gathering where you want something easy to share but still packed with flavor. With simple prep and straightforward steps, these sliders make entertaining stress-free and delicious.
Whether you’re serving them up for game day or a casual party, the balance of tender steak, melty cheese, and soft rolls creates an irresistible bite every time. By following our tips, you’ll consistently deliver sliders that impress and satisfy. Let’s get cooking and enjoy these flavorful sliders together!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Hawaiian rolls ideal for Philly cheesesteak sliders?
Hawaiian rolls add a sweet contrast to the savory beef and melted cheese, balancing flavors and providing a soft, slightly sweet base that’s perfect for sliders.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the beef and vegetable filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
What type of steak is best for these sliders?
Thinly sliced ribeye steak is ideal because it cooks quickly and stays tender, providing rich flavor for authentic Philly cheesesteak sliders.
How do I ensure the cheese melts evenly?
Cover the skillet after adding the cheese to trap steam, which helps melt the cheese evenly over the beef and vegetables.
What optional toppings can I add to enhance the sliders?
You can add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, pickled jalapeños, lettuce, and tomato slices to boost flavor and add freshness.
How should I store assembled sliders?
Store assembled sliders in the fridge for up to 24 hours, covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap to keep them fresh before baking.
What sides pair well with Philly cheesesteak sliders?
Crispy sweet potato fries, classic coleslaw, pickled vegetables, and garden salad complement the rich sliders perfectly.
What equipment do I need to prepare these sliders?
You’ll need a non-stick or cast iron skillet, a sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, mixing bowl, baking dish, measuring spoons, pastry brush, spatula or tongs, and a cheese grater.
Can these sliders be frozen?
The cooked filling can be frozen to maintain quality; however, it’s best to assemble and bake the sliders fresh after thawing.
How long do I bake the sliders?
Bake sliders at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese melts and the tops turn golden brown.