If you’re craving the bold, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want to keep it vegetarian, you’ve come to the right place. This best vegetarian Philly cheesesteak recipe captures all the deliciousness of the original sandwich—juicy, tender mushrooms, sautéed peppers, and onions melted with creamy provolone cheese, all piled high on a soft hoagie roll.
Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just looking to add more meatless meals to your diet, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your taste buds without missing a beat.
What makes this recipe stand out is its perfect balance of texture and flavor. The mushrooms mimic the richness and chewiness of steak, while the caramelized onions and peppers add a sweet and smoky depth.
Plus, with a melty blanket of cheese, every bite is pure comfort. Ready to impress your family or friends with a meatless twist on a Philly classic?
Let’s dive into making your new favorite sandwich!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian Philly cheesesteak is a game-changer for anyone who misses the classic sandwich but prefers to avoid meat. It’s:
- Hearty and satisfying: The mushrooms provide a meaty texture that fills you up.
- Flavor-packed: Caramelized onions and bell peppers bring sweetness and depth.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out veggies or cheese to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Great for all skill levels: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll enjoy the process and results.
Ingredients
- 12 oz cremini or portobello mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for umami boost)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls, split
- 8 slices provolone cheese (or vegan cheese alternative)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Baking sheet or oven-safe pan
- Measuring spoons
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Clean and thinly slice the mushrooms, bell pepper, and onion. Mince the garlic finely.
- Heat the skillet: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in your large skillet.
- Sauté the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they release their moisture and start to brown. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and the soy sauce if using. Remove mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the peppers and onions: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring often until they soften and caramelize. Add the minced garlic in the last 2 minutes of cooking for a fragrant burst.
- Combine mushrooms back in: Return the mushrooms to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Stir well to combine, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Prepare the rolls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the hoagie rolls open-faced on a baking sheet.
- Fill and cheese the rolls: Divide the mushroom-veggie mixture evenly among the rolls. Top each with 2 slices of provolone cheese.
- Melt the cheese: Place the baking sheet in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Close the sandwiches and enjoy hot.
Tips & Variations
For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika when sautéing the mushrooms.
- Cheese options: If you want a vegan version, use your favorite plant-based cheese that melts well, such as vegan provolone or mozzarella.
- Veggie swaps: Feel free to add sliced zucchini, eggplant, or even thinly sliced seitan or tempeh for added protein.
- Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Bread alternatives: Try whole wheat buns, ciabatta rolls, or even toasted baguettes for a different texture.
- Extra umami: A splash of Worcestershire sauce (make sure it’s vegetarian) or a few drops of liquid smoke can deepen the flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 400 kcal |
Protein | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
Fat | 14 g |
Saturated Fat | 6 g |
Sodium | 700 mg |
Vitamin C | 70% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetarian Philly cheesesteak is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some tasty sides.
- French fries or sweet potato fries: Classic pairing that adds a satisfying crunch.
- Simple green salad: Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Pickles or giardiniera: Add a tangy, spicy bite that complements the sandwich flavors.
- Roasted or grilled vegetables: Serve alongside for an extra veggie boost.
- Pair with a refreshing drink: Try a cold iced tea or a sparkling lemonade for contrast.
For more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or indulge your sweet tooth with the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe. And if you’re a cheese lover, be sure to try the Cheese Penny Recipe for a delightful snack.
Conclusion
This vegetarian Philly cheesesteak recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the iconic sandwich without meat. It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and highly customizable to suit your preferences.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this sandwich will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. The combination of savory mushrooms, sweet caramelized onions and peppers, and melted provolone cheese creates a delicious harmony that satisfies cravings and warms the soul.
Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe brings the best of Philly cheesesteak culture to your kitchen with a vegetarian twist. Give it a try and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors that everyone will love.
Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and share it with fellow food lovers looking for a tasty meat-free alternative!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegetarian Philly Cheese Steak
Description: A flavorful and satisfying vegetarian twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak using mushrooms and peppers. Perfectly seasoned and topped with melted cheese on a soft hoagie roll.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), thinly sliced
- 12 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- Optional: hot sauce or vegan mayo for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release moisture and brown, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 2 more minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Split hoagie rolls and layer each with mushroom mixture.
- Top each with 2 slices of provolone cheese.
- Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake until cheese melts, about 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with optional hot sauce or vegan mayo.
Nutrition: Calories: 400 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 45 g
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