If you love the bold, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak and the irresistible crunch of a perfectly fried egg roll, then this recipe is about to become your new favorite appetizer. Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls combine tender beef, caramelized onions, melty cheese, and a crispy golden shell into one unforgettable bite. They’re perfect for parties, game nights, family gatherings, or even as a fun dinner option when you want something indulgent and satisfying.
These egg rolls deliver everything you love about a cheesesteak—without the bun—and add a crunchy texture that makes them impossible to resist.
Why Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Are So Popular
Philly cheesesteaks are iconic for a reason: juicy beef, sweet onions, and gooey cheese create a comforting, crave-worthy combination. Wrapping those flavors in an egg roll takes things to another level by:
- Adding a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling
- Making them easy to serve and dip
- Turning a classic sandwich into a party-friendly finger food
- Offering endless variations with different cheeses, meats, and cooking methods
Once you try them, you’ll understand why they disappear so fast from the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 1 pound thinly sliced beef (ribeye is traditional, but sirloin works well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or American cheese)
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened (optional, for extra creaminess)
For Assembly:
- 12–15 egg roll wrappers
- Water or beaten egg (for sealing)
For Frying:
- Vegetable or canola oil, for deep frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the thinly sliced beef to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is just cooked through. Do not overcook, as the meat will continue cooking during frying.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce and remove the skillet from heat.
2. Add the Cheese
While the mixture is still hot, stir in the shredded provolone and cream cheese (if using). Mix until the cheese melts and coats the beef and vegetables evenly. The filling should be creamy, rich, and slightly thick—not watery.
Allow the filling to cool for 5–10 minutes before assembling the egg rolls. This step prevents the wrappers from becoming soggy.
Assembling the Egg Rolls
Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape, with one corner pointing toward you. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the bottom corner.
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides tightly. Roll upward into a snug cylinder, sealing the final corner with a dab of water or beaten egg. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Keep the assembled egg rolls covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
Frying to Crispy Perfection
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower 3–4 egg rolls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Repeat until all egg rolls are cooked.
Optional Cooking Methods
Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
- Lightly spray egg rolls with oil
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway
Oven-Baked
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C)
- Brush egg rolls lightly with oil
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, turning once
While frying gives the crispiest results, these methods offer lighter alternatives.
Best Dipping Sauces
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are delicious on their own, but dipping sauces take them even further. Try serving them with:
- Cheese sauce or queso
- Garlic aioli
- Spicy sriracha mayo
- Ranch dressing
- Ketchup mixed with Worcestershire sauce
Offering a variety of dips makes them even more irresistible for guests.
Variations and Add-Ins
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is:
- Chicken Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: Substitute beef with thinly sliced chicken breast
- Mushroom Lovers: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami
- Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes
- Extra Cheesy: Use a blend of provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar
You can easily tailor the filling to match your personal taste.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls hot and fresh for the best texture and flavor. They pair wonderfully with salads, fries, or even as a main dish with a dipping sauce on the side.
To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness—avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
Final Thoughts
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are the perfect example of comfort food done right. They’re crunchy on the outside, creamy and savory on the inside, and bursting with classic cheesesteak flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Once you make them, don’t be surprised if they become a regular request—these egg rolls are truly unforgettable.
