As the chilly air settles in, I find myself reminiscing about the cozy comfort of my favorite meals. That’s how I stumbled upon my latest creation: One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast. This delightful dish is a nostalgic mashup that marries the rich flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the heartwarming warmth of creamy soup. What makes it truly special is its quick preparation—ideal for those bustling weeknights when time isn’t on your side—and its crowd-pleasing nature that even the pickiest eaters rave about. Plus, with options for gluten-free enthusiasts, everyone can dive into this tasty bowl of happiness! Ready to discover how to whip up this soul-soothing recipe? Let’s get cooking!

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Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting, One-Pot Cooking: This recipe takes minimal effort, allowing you to create a hearty meal in just one pot—less mess, more joy!
Flavor Explosion: With tender beef, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese, each spoonful bursts with rich, savory goodness that comforts the soul.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s a dish that everyone will love, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Pair it with our Cajun Potato Soup for even more comfort food vibes!
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup is both simple to make and satisfying to eat.
Versatile: Customize it by swapping in ground turkey or going vegetarian with mushrooms—there’s an option for every dietary preference!

One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Beef – Provides the base protein and rich flavor; if you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey works beautifully.
Bacon – Offers crispy texture and a smoky taste; swap it out for turkey bacon for a leaner choice.
Chicken broth – Forms the robust soup base adding depth; vegetable broth serves as a great vegetarian substitute.
Cornstarch – Used for thickening the soup’s consistency; remember to mix it with water before adding to the pot.
Vegetables – Enhance flavor and nutrition; consider bell peppers or onions for an extra flavor boost.

For the Toppings

Cheese – Adds creaminess and a savory flavor; avoid freezing, and add fresh cheese after reheating for the best results.
Bread – Toast separately for a crunchy texture; it pairs perfectly with the warm soup for that classic comfort experience.

Get ready to create a bowl of happiness that captures the essence of a classic One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients for the One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Chop the beef into bite-sized pieces and dice any vegetables you plan to use, such as bell peppers or onions. Cook 4–6 slices of crispy bacon in a large pot over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes until browned. Remove the bacon, leaving the drippings in the pot for flavor.

Step 2: Cook Beef and Vegetables
In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add the chopped beef and sauté over medium-high heat. Cook for 5–8 minutes until the beef is browned, stirring often to ensure even cooking. Once the beef is ready, add your prepared vegetables, and sauté for an additional 3–5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Soup
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring it into the beef and vegetable mixture. Raise the heat to bring the soup to a simmer, allowing it to bubble gently. This should take about 5 minutes. As the broth heats up, the aroma of the One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering soup, stirring constantly. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency, creating a velvety texture reminiscent of a classic cheesesteak.

Step 5: Add Cheese
Once your soup has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1–2 cups of your favorite cheese, such as provolone or cheddar. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and integrated, ensuring a creamy and rich flavor throughout the One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve with Toast
While the soup is finishing up, toast slices of your preferred bread in a toaster or on a skillet until golden and crispy. This will add the perfect crunchy texture to complement your One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Serve steaming hot, garnished with crumbled bacon on top of each bowl, and enjoy the comforting, hearty goodness!

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What to Serve with One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Create a delightful meal pairing that enhances the warmth and flavors of this creamy masterpiece.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky crunch of this bread adds a delightful contrast to the creamy soup, making every bite a pleasure. Serve it alongside for dipping.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad brings a contrasting texture and bright flavors, balancing the richness of the soup beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and herbs, these crispy vegetables offer a wholesome and colorful addition that enriches your meal experience.
Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked to perfection, these crispy wedges create a satisfying crunch and serve as a hearty counterpart to the soup.
Cheesy Toast: Elevate your cheesy toast game with extra toppings like a sprinkle of herbs or jalapeños for an exciting twist; it pairs perfectly with the soup’s flavors.
Apple Pie: For dessert, this warm and sweet classic rounds off your meal beautifully; its sweetness complements the savory savory soup, creating a delightful finish.
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea helps cleanse the palate while adding a cool twist to your comforting soup experience.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay echoes the dish’s creamy texture with its fruity notes and acidity, creating a harmonious pairing that feels upscale yet cozy.

One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and let your culinary creativity shine through!

Turkey Swap: Substitute beef with ground turkey for a lighter, yet still flavorful version. This adds a lean twist without sacrificing flavor.
Vegetarian Delight: Use mushrooms and lentils as a meaty alternative for a comforting vegetarian option. The earthy tones from lentils paired with mushrooms make a satisfying base.
Cheesy Explosion: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor. A hint of spice will elevate the dish while maintaining that cheesy goodness.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mix for heat. Just a sprinkle can turn up the flavor profile!
Creamy Dream: Introduce a splash of heavy cream at the end for extra richness and a luxurious texture. This elevates the comfort level to new heights.
Herbaceous Freshness: Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for vibrant color and flavor. Fresh herbs brighten the dish wonderfully.
Crunch Factor: Add crispy fried onions on top as a garnish for an extra crunch with every spoonful. They add a delightful savory bite.

For even more delectable options, check out our Street Corn Soup and Chicken Gnocchi Soup for inspiration!

Expert Tips for One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

• Mix Ingredients Well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined during cooking for a more cohesive flavor in your One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

• Watch the Heat: Saute beef at medium-high to achieve a nice browning; too low, and it will steam instead, resulting in less flavor.

• Cornstarch Preparation: Always mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the soup; this prevents clumps and ensures a smooth, velvety texture.

• Cheese Timing: Add cheese at the end when the soup is off the heat to prevent it from becoming rubbery, maintaining its creamy consistency.

• Keep Toast Crunchy: Toast bread right before serving to maintain its crunch; soggy toast won’t do this comforting soup justice!

• Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with protein substitutions or add vegetables, but be mindful of moisture content to keep the soup balanced.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the beef and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator; this will keep them fresh and ready to use when hunger strikes. Additionally, cook the bacon ahead of time and refrigerate it, ensuring that it stays crispy when added later. When it’s time to enjoy the soup, simply sauté the beef and vegetables, add the chicken broth, and follow the remaining cooking steps until you mix in the cheese. This way, you’ll have a hearty, homemade meal with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

How to Store and Freeze One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.

Freezer: If you plan to freeze the soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat individual portions on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture of the soup.

Cheese Addition: If freezing, it’s best to add the cheese fresh during reheating for optimal creaminess in your One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

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One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of beef should I use for the soup?
I recommend using ground beef for its rich flavor that complements the soup beautifully. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey works well too. Just ensure it’s finely chopped to maintain a tender texture in each bowl!

How can I store leftover soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup thickens too much during storage.

Can I freeze the One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat.

How do I prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery when reheating?
To maintain that creamy texture, add the cheese fresh when reheating. Stir in the cheese once the soup is heated through, and allow it to melt gently with a low flame to keep everything wonderfully smooth.

What if I have dietary restrictions or preferences?
No problem! You can substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for different protein options. For a vegetarian twist, use mushrooms and lentils in place of beef. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the moisture content of your ingredients to maintain the right consistency in your soup!

Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, indeed! This One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup is perfect for kids with its familiar flavors and creamy texture. You can also involve them in cooking by letting them help with stirring and adding ingredients, making it a fun family meal prep experience!