Philly Steak and Cheese Pinwheels

Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups: Your Ultimate Recipe for Easy Appetizers & Dinners

These Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups are an incredibly fun and satisfying twist on a beloved American classic. Imagine all the mouth-watering flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak – savory, thinly sliced beef, caramelized onions, tender bell peppers, and earthy mushrooms – all melded together with gooey melted provolone cheese, then neatly rolled into a golden, crispy pizza dough and baked to perfection. It’s a culinary adventure that brings comfort food to your table in an exciting new format!

While this recipe may not be an authentic Philly Cheesesteak straight from the streets of Philadelphia, it captures the essence of that iconic sandwich in a format that’s perfect for sharing. If you’re a fan of the original, trust us, this creative take offers a delightful experience you’re sure to fall in love with. It’s simpler to prepare than you might think, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newcomers.

Golden brown Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups, baked to perfection and ready to serve as an appetizer or dinner.
Delicious Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups, showcasing the golden crust and savory filling.

The magic begins with a simple sheet of pizza dough, which you’ll roll out into a generous rectangle. This becomes the perfect canvas for layering our classic Philly cheesesteak ingredients. Each roll-up is generously loaded with thinly sliced beef (you have options here!), a colorful medley of sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers, and a generous helping of melty provolone cheese. Once assembled, they’re rolled up tightly, sliced into individual portions, and baked until golden brown and irresistibly cheesy. The result is a handheld delight that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly satisfying.

These versatile Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups make an excellent appetizer for any gathering, from casual game nights to more festive parties. Their individual serving size makes them easy to grab and enjoy. Beyond appetizers, they also transform into a fun and hearty dinner that the whole family will enjoy. The ease of preparation is just another bonus, making them an even more appealing choice for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss. Prepare to make these a regular in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love These Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups

There are countless reasons to adore these Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups, making them a standout recipe for any occasion:

  • Effortlessly Delicious: Combining the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the simplicity of a roll-up, this recipe delivers maximum taste with minimal effort. It’s a comforting dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to execute.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Whether you serve them as a savory appetizer at your next party, a delicious snack for game day, or a satisfying main course for dinner, these roll-ups are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re perfect for both adults and kids!
  • Customizable to Your Liking: The recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of beef, various cheeses, or even add extra vegetables to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. We’ll cover some fantastic variations later on.
  • Fun and Interactive: The process of assembling and rolling these delicious treats can be a fun activity, especially if you have little helpers in the kitchen. Plus, the individual roll-up format makes them a joyful and less messy way to enjoy a classic sandwich.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: These roll-ups can be partially prepared in advance, making your cooking process even smoother on a busy day. They also reheat beautifully, ensuring you can enjoy leftovers just as much.

What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Perfect Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups

To create these delightful Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups, you’ll need a handful of fresh ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize based on what you have on hand or prefer. Remember to scroll to the bottom of the post for the full printable recipe card with exact measurements!

  • Pizza Dough: The foundation of our roll-ups! You can opt for the ultimate convenience of a tube of store-bought pizza dough, readily available in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. Alternatively, if you enjoy baking from scratch, my No Knead Pizza Dough recipe works wonderfully and adds a homemade touch.
  • Thinly Sliced Beef: This is where the “steak” in cheesesteak comes from. You have a few great options here:
    • Deli Roast Beef: A fantastic shortcut for speed and ease. Choose a good quality, thinly sliced roast beef.
    • Shaved Beef (Cheese Steak Meat): Many grocery stores offer pre-shaved beef specifically for cheesesteaks, often found in the fresh meat or frozen section. This option cooks up quickly and has the perfect texture.
    • Thinly Sliced Steak: For a more gourmet touch, you can thinly slice a ribeye or sirloin steak yourself. Make sure to slice against the grain for tenderness. You’ll lightly brown this before assembling.
  • Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced, add an essential earthy flavor and satisfying texture to the filling. White button or cremini mushrooms work best here.
  • Onion: A small onion, thinly sliced, will caramelize beautifully when sautéed, adding a sweet and savory depth to the roll-ups. Yellow or white onions are great choices.
  • Bell Pepper: I used a red bell pepper for its vibrant color and slightly sweeter flavor, but you can use any color bell pepper you prefer – green, yellow, or orange all work well and contribute a fresh crunch and sweetness.
  • Provolone Cheese: The classic cheese steak choice! Provolone melts wonderfully and offers a mild, slightly tangy flavor that complements the beef and vegetables perfectly. Sliced provolone is ideal for layering.
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing your vegetables, providing a rich base flavor and helping them soften to perfection.

How To Make Philly Cheesesteak Roll Ups: A Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting these Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:

  1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 13×9 inch baking pan with non-stick spray and set it aside. This ensures your roll-ups won’t stick and will cook evenly.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your thinly sliced mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers to the hot oil. Sauté for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly softened. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the sautéed vegetables to cool slightly while you prepare the other components.
  3. Prepare the Beef: Depending on the type of beef you’re using, there are different preparation methods:
    • If you’re using pre-shaved beef (often labeled “cheese steak meat”) or deli roast beef, you do not need to cook it ahead of time. It will cook through perfectly as the roll-ups bake in the oven.
    • If you’ve opted to slice a steak (like ribeye or sirloin) yourself, lightly brown the meat in a separate skillet or in the same skillet after removing the vegetables. You don’t need to cook it all the way through; just a quick sear to add some color and flavor, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
  4. Assemble the Roll-Ups: On a lightly floured surface or a large cutting board, unroll your pizza dough into a large rectangle. Aim for an even thickness. Evenly spread your prepared beef over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small margin along one of the long edges. Next, scatter the cooled sautéed vegetables over the beef layer. Finally, lay slices of provolone cheese generously over the vegetables, ensuring every bite will be deliciously cheesy.
  5. Roll and Slice: Starting from one of the long edges (the one opposite the margin you left), begin to tightly roll the dough over the filling. Continue rolling until you reach the end, creating a snug log. Pinch the seam and the ends of the dough together firmly to seal the filling inside. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the dough log into 12 individual rolls. A serrated knife can sometimes help with a cleaner cut.
  6. Bake to Golden Perfection: Arrange the sliced roll-ups in the prepared 13×9 inch baking pan. Make sure they are placed cut-side up or down, and not too cramped, allowing for even baking. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 14-16 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pizza dough is golden brown and fully cooked through.
  7. Serve Immediately: Once baked, remove the Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups from the oven and serve them warm. They are at their absolute best fresh out of the oven, when the cheese is still wonderfully gooey and the crust is crisp.
A plate of freshly baked Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups, showcasing the delicious golden crust and cheesy filling.
A close-up of a perfectly baked Philly Cheese Steak Roll Up, ready to be devoured.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups

Achieving perfect Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups is easy with a few insider tips and tricks. These suggestions will help you elevate your dish and ensure a successful baking experience every time:

  • Dough Alternatives: While pizza dough is a fantastic and convenient choice, don’t feel limited! You can certainly use other types of dough. Crescent roll dough, for example, also works well, though it will result in smaller, flakier roll-ups. If using crescent roll dough, you might need slightly less filling and adjust baking time accordingly, usually a bit less due to its thinner nature. Puff pastry is another excellent option for an extra flaky and rich texture.
  • Beef Selection for Flavor and Budget: To make these roll-ups as budget-friendly or as gourmet as you desire, consider your beef choice. Many grocery stores sell pre-shaved beef specifically labeled for cheesesteaks, which is often reasonably priced and perfect for this recipe. Deli roast beef is another economical and incredibly convenient option. For those seeking a richer flavor, thinly sliced ribeye steak is a premium choice that delivers an authentic cheesesteak experience.
  • Chicken Philly Variation: If red meat isn’t your preference, or if you simply want a delicious alternative, swap the beef for chicken! Cook thinly sliced or shredded chicken breast with the vegetables, similar to my Chicken Philly Sandwich recipe. The flavors translate beautifully to the roll-up format.
  • Cheese Your Way: While provolone is the traditional and recommended cheese for its classic cheesesteak flavor and excellent melting properties, feel free to use your favorite! Cheddar cheese adds a sharper, bolder taste, mozzarella offers incredible stretch and mildness, and a Monterey Jack provides a lovely creamy melt. A blend of cheeses can also create a complex flavor profile.
  • Don’t Overfill: It can be tempting to load up on the delicious filling, but overfilling your dough can make it difficult to roll and seal properly, leading to leaks during baking. Aim for a generous but manageable layer.
  • Ensure Even Slicing: When slicing the rolled dough into individual portions, use a sharp knife and try to make even cuts. This ensures all your roll-ups cook at the same rate and look uniform.
  • Prevent Soggy Bottoms: To avoid a soggy bottom, make sure your vegetables have cooled slightly after sautéing before adding them to the dough. Excess heat and moisture can make the dough soft. Also, ensure your baking pan is adequately greased.
  • Seal Those Ends: Pinching the ends of the dough log firmly after rolling is crucial. This step helps to contain the filling and prevent it from oozing out during baking, keeping your roll-ups neat and tidy.

Variations and Customizations for Your Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to adapt recipes to your taste. These Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups are incredibly versatile, offering plenty of room for creative twists:

  • Spice It Up: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your sautéing vegetables, or include some thinly sliced jalapeños. A drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce on top before serving also works wonders.
  • Garlic Butter Crust: Before baking, brush the top of your roll-ups with melted garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful golden sheen. You can also sprinkle with a little Parmesan cheese.
  • Different Veggie Medley: Beyond mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers, consider adding finely chopped spinach, corn, or even a different type of pepper like poblano for a unique flavor. Ensure any added vegetables are also sautéed and excess moisture removed.
  • Sauce It: While delicious on their own, these roll-ups can be served with a side of your favorite dipping sauce. A creamy cheese sauce, a classic marinara, or even a tangy BBQ sauce can add another dimension.
  • Mini Roll Ups: For even smaller appetizers, you can divide your dough into two smaller rectangles and make two logs, then slice each into smaller pieces. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Planning ahead makes these Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups even easier to enjoy:

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling (sauté the vegetables and cook the beef if needed) a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble the roll-ups just before baking.
  • Refrigeration: Leftover roll-ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: These roll-ups freeze well! After baking and cooling completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. You can also freeze them unbaked: arrange sliced roll-ups on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen (add 5-10 minutes to baking time) or thaw first.
  • Reheating: To reheat baked roll-ups, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 8-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a few minutes for extra crispiness. Microwaving is an option, but they might lose some crispness.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups can be enjoyed in many ways:

  • As an Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli for a fantastic party starter or game-day snack.
  • For a Quick Lunch or Dinner: Serve 3-4 roll-ups per person alongside a simple green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Pair with Sides: Classic pairings include French fries, onion rings, or even a side of roasted vegetables to complement the rich flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What kind of beef is best for Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups?
For the best flavor and texture, thinly sliced ribeye steak is ideal, but pre-shaved beef (often labeled “cheese steak meat”) is a very convenient and delicious option. Deli roast beef also works wonderfully as a quick shortcut. The key is thin slices for tenderness and ease of rolling.
Can I prepare these roll-ups in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and sauté all the vegetables and cook the beef (if using ribeye) a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Then, on the day you plan to bake, simply roll out the dough, assemble, slice, and bake. For longer storage, see our freezing tips above!
What’s the best way to prevent the filling from falling out while baking?
The most important step is to roll the dough tightly and firmly pinch the seam and the ends of the log together before slicing. This creates a good seal. Also, ensure your vegetables are not overly wet after sautéing, as excess moisture can make the dough less adhesive.
Can I make a vegetarian version of these roll-ups?
Yes, you certainly can! Omit the beef and instead load up on extra vegetables like more mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or even grilled zucchini. You could also use a plant-based meat alternative or seasoned firm tofu to mimic the texture of the beef. Just ensure your vegetarian filling is seasoned well for maximum flavor.

Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups Recipe Card

A vibrant close-up of baked pumpkin dump cake, hinting at a cozy dessert, but representing the Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups for recipe card context.

Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups

Cheesy Philly cheese steaks rolled up and baked into an easy dinner or fun appetizer! A crowd-pleasing twist on a classic sandwich.

Prep: 15 mins
Cook: 15 mins
Total: 30 mins
Servings: 4
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Ingredients

  • 1 tube pizza dough (or homemade no-knead pizza dough)
  • 12 oz Thinly sliced beef (such as deli roast beef, packaged shaved steak, or lightly browned, very thinly sliced ribeye)
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 (8 oz) package mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (red, green, or yellow)
  • 12 slices provolone cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350º F (175ºC). Spray a 13×9 inch pan with non-stick spray and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. Sauté for 6-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. If using thinly sliced ribeye, brown the meat lightly in a separate skillet. If using shaved beef or deli roast beef, no pre-cooking is necessary as it will cook through in the oven.
  4. Roll the pizza dough into a large, even rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  5. Evenly spread the prepared beef over the dough, followed by the sautéed vegetables. Top generously with the provolone cheese slices.
  6. Carefully roll the dough over the filling, starting from one long end and continuing to roll tightly until the end. Pinch the seam and ends together firmly to seal.
  7. Using a sharp knife, slice the dough log into 12 individual rolls. Place them into the prepared baking dish.
  8. Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dough is golden brown and fully cooked.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Philly Cheese Steak Roll Ups!

Nutrition Information

Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 76mg | Sodium: 776mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: Erin Sellin

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Course: Appetizer Recipes, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4

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**The trip to Ohio was paid for by American Dairy Association. I was not asked to write this post or share anything about it with you, but I genuinely love this recipe!