When my buddy Mike stumbled into my kitchen after a late shift, he looked defeated. “I miss Philly cheesesteaks, but I’m trying to eat healthier breakfasts,” he sighed. As the chef who can’t resist a food challenge, I grabbed my cast iron and got to work. The next morning, I served him my Philly Cheesesteak Frittata—tender steak, provolone, and eggs in one protein-packed skillet. His face lit up as he took that first bite. “You’ve just solved my breakfast dilemma,” he grinned between mouthfuls.
History & Origin
A culinary fusion emerged in 2009 when the Philly Cheesesteak Frittata first appeared in the Eggland’s Best Recipe Contest.
As a home cook, I discovered this innovative recipe that transformed leftover steak into a breakfast masterpiece.
The dish brilliantly reimagined the classic Philly Cheese Steak, replacing the traditional roll with a protein-packed egg base.
By incorporating tender steak, sautéed bell peppers, caramelized onions, and melted provolone, the recipe created a morning alternative to the iconic Philadelphia street food.
Its contest entry highlighted creative culinary adaptation and nutritional potential.
Recipe
The Philly Cheesesteak Frittata is a delightful breakfast dish that reimagines the classic Philadelphia street food in a protein-packed, gluten-free format. By transforming leftover steak into a flavorful morning meal, this recipe offers a creative and satisfying alternative to traditional breakfast options.
This frittata combines the robust flavors of tender steak, sautéed bell peppers, and caramelized onions, all held together by a light and fluffy egg base topped with melted provolone cheese. The result is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day, perfect for using up leftover ingredients and creating a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked steak chunks
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/3 cup yellow onion, diced
- 6 large eggs
- 3 ounces provolone cheese, cut into 1/2 to 3/4-inch squares
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment
- 10-inch oven-safe skillet
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Heat olive oil in a 10-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat
- Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3-5 minutes until tender
- Add cooked steak to the skillet
- Whisk eggs with salt and pepper in a separate bowl
- Pour whisked eggs over the steak and vegetables
- Cook on stovetop for 5 minutes until edges begin to set
- Distribute provolone cheese squares evenly across the surface
- Transfer skillet to preheated oven
- Bake for 10-13 minutes until eggs are fully set
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes
- Slice into 4 servings
Nutrition
320 kcal | 3g Carbohydrates | 28g Protein | 22g Fat | 10g Saturated Fat | 2g Polyunsaturated Fat | 8g Monounsaturated Fat | 320mg Cholesterol | 450mg Sodium | 320mg Potassium | 540 Vitamin A IU | 12mg Vitamin C | 240mg Calcium | 2mg Iron
Cooking Tips
When preparing this frittata, ensure your steak is pre-cooked and slightly cooled to prevent overcooking the eggs. For best results, use a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet or a non-stick oven-safe pan to prevent sticking. If you don’t have leftover steak, quickly sear fresh steak before adding to the skillet to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the Philly Cheesesteak Frittata, serve it immediately after baking, allowing the cheese to remain warm and perfectly melted.
Create an indulgent open-faced sandwich by placing the frittata on garlic-buttered toast, using 7 sprays of I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter per slice and rubbing the bread with a fresh garlic clove.
Complement the rich, savory flavors with fresh sliced tomatoes on the side, which provide a bright, acidic contrast.
For a complete brunch experience, pair the frittata with a classic mimosa or a spicy bloody mary, transforming this dish into a sophisticated morning meal that serves 4 people.
Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting
One common mistake when preparing frittatas is overcooking the eggs, which can result in a dry, rubbery texture.
I once made this error during a weekend brunch for friends, leaving the frittata in the oven too long while distracted by conversation.
To avoid this, watch the frittata closely in the final minutes of baking, checking for a slight jiggle in the center that indicates perfectly cooked eggs.
Remove the skillet when the eggs are just set, as they’ll continue to cook slightly from residual heat.
Additionally, ensure your oven-safe skillet is the correct size and that ingredients are evenly distributed to promote uniform cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Secret Ingredient in Philly Cheesesteak?
I’d say the secret ingredient in a Philly Cheesesteak isn’t truly secret—it’s provolone cheese. Its melty texture and mild flavor elevate the sandwich, though Cheese Whiz is another beloved option among authentic recipe enthusiasts.
Is a Philly Cheesesteak Omelette Healthy?
I’d say it’s a balanced dish. The eggs and veggies offer nutrients, but the steak adds saturated fat. By choosing lean meat and reducing cheese, you can make it healthier while enjoying a protein-packed breakfast.
What Is the Best Melting Cheese for Cheesesteaks?
I’d recommend provolone as the best melting cheese for cheesesteaks. It melts smoothly, doesn’t overpower the meat’s flavor, and provides that classic, creamy texture you’re looking for in an authentic Philadelphia-style sandwich.
What Makes a Philly Cheesesteak Taste Like a Philly Cheesesteak?
The iconic flavor of a Philly Cheesesteak comes from thinly sliced, juicy steak, caramelized onions, and melted provolone, with a hint of Worcestershire sauce that creates that unmistakable, savory, and rich taste you’ll crave.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Frittata transforms classic sandwich flavors into a protein-packed breakfast. The recipe bridges comfort food with nutritional value while allowing for personal customization. Whether for a hearty morning meal or unique brunch option, it delivers robust flavor and substantial nutrition.
If you enjoyed this creative twist on a Philadelphia classic, check out our recipe for Mediterranean Frittata, where we take these beloved flavors in another exciting direction.
