Name: Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Hoagie Croutons Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 hoagie buns, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound beef top sirloin steak, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms; 1 cup chopped onion; 1 cup thinly sliced and chopped sweet red pepper; 1 cup thinly sliced and chopped green pepper; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 cups reduced-sodium beef broth; 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup shredded provolone cheese; Minced parsley, for garnish; Additional shredded provolone cheese, for garnish

Print Recipe·4 from 2 reviews

If you’re craving a bowl of rich, comforting soup that captures the iconic flavors of a classic sandwich, then this Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Hoagie Croutons Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with tender strips of beef top sirloin, sautéed peppers, mushrooms, and onions swimming in a creamy, cheesy broth, every spoonful brings the delicious essence of a Philly cheesesteak to life in a warm, irresistible way. The star twist? Crispy hoagie croutons that add a delightful crunch, making this soup a complete meal perfectly suited for chilly nights or whenever you need a hearty pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white pot filled with a creamy brown soup that has visible red pepper strips and bits of onion mixed in, topped with a pile of shredded white cheese in the center. A dark green ladle is resting in the pot, partially covered by the cheese. To the left, there is a white bowl with thin slices of cooked beef. On the right, a metal measuring cup holds more shredded white cheese. All items are set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Hoagie Croutons Recipe plays a crucial role. From the savory beef sirloin that lends meaty depth, to the medley of fresh vegetables that brighten the bowl with color and texture, each element works in harmony to create a soup that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor.

Hoagie buns (2, cut into 1-inch cubes): The base for your croutons which add crispy texture and familiar sandwich vibes.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Essential for browning the steak and toasting the croutons perfectly golden.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple but vital seasoning that enhances all flavors.
Beef top sirloin steak (1 pound, thinly sliced): Tender and flavorful, this cut holds up well in soup.
Sliced fresh mushrooms (8 ounces): Contribute an earthy richness that blends wonderfully with the beef.
Chopped onion (1 cup): Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed.
Thinly sliced red and green sweet peppers (1 cup each): Bring bright colors and a subtle sweet crunch.
Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Gives the soup an aromatic punch that awakens your senses.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the broth into a luscious, creamy consistency.
Reduced-sodium beef broth (4 cups): Forms the savory base of the soup.
Heavy whipping cream (2 tablespoons): Adds silkiness and richness without overpowering.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Infuses umami and tangy depth, mimicking classic Philly flavors.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A subtle herb blend that rounds out the savory notes.
Shredded provolone cheese (1 cup, plus extra for garnish): Melts beautifully, adding gooey cheesiness synonymous with a Philly cheesesteak.
Minced parsley (for garnish): Adds fresh color and a bright finish.

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Hoagie Croutons Recipe

Step 1: Make the Hoagie Croutons

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to get it nicely hot for toasting. Toss the hoagie bun cubes with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and bake them for 6 to 8 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. These croutons will offer a crispy, flavorful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy soup. For an extra punch, try sprinkling on Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or onion powder before baking.

Step 2: Sear the Steak for the Soup

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak and season well with salt and pepper. Cook until all sides are beautifully browned, sealing in those juicy flavors. Once done, remove the steak with a slotted spoon and set it aside. This step builds the rich meaty base your soup needs.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, leave only one tablespoon of fat and discard the rest for a cleaner finish. Toss in the mushrooms and sauté until most of their liquid evaporates. Then, add the onion, red pepper, and green pepper, cooking until the onions soften and turn golden, and the peppers become tender—usually about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for only 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant to prevent burning. Lastly, sprinkle the flour over the veggies and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently to develop a golden hue. This step prepares the soup’s base, thickening it and melding all those savory flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Liquids

Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes so the soup thickens slightly and absorbs the seasonings. This is where all the ingredients start to come together in one hearty pot.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Steak Back

Turn the heat down to low—this is a crucial step to avoid clumping cheese. Gradually stir in the shredded provolone, adding small handfuls at a time, and stirring until each portion melts before adding more. Then, nestle the seared steak strips back into the pot and let the soup simmer gently for another five minutes to marry the flavors. Your comforting Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Hoagie Croutons Recipe is now ready to be served.

How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Hoagie Croutons Recipe

The image shows a white pot with cooked food inside on a white marbled surface. The pot contains a mix of cooked vegetables including sliced mushrooms, red and green bell pepper strips, and finely chopped onions, all lightly browned and mixed together. A silver spoon rests inside the pot, partially covered with the vegetables. Next to the pot is a white bowl filled with cooked pieces of brown meat. The colors in the pot are warm and earthy, with the reds, greens, and browns contrasting against the white pot and bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The best part about serving this soup is the finishing touches. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over each bowl for a pop of green and brightness. Add a handful of extra shredded provolone cheese on top to keep that melty, comforting cheese experience front and center. Finally, crown your bowl with plenty of the crispy hoagie croutons—they soak up some broth but still stay satisfyingly crunchy.

Side Dishes

This soup shines as a stand-alone meal, but pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad or steamed green vegetables creates a well-rounded and nutritious dinner. A simple Caesar salad or even roasted broccoli make excellent partners, balancing the richness of the soup with light, vibrant flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the soup in hollowed-out mini hoagie rolls for an eye-catching presentation that doubles the hoagie effect. Alternatively, offer a garnish bar where everyone can pile on their favorite toppings like extra cheese, crumbled bacon, or diced jalapeños for some heat and extra personality. This turns the meal into an interactive, cozy event.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover soup to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the hoagie croutons separate to avoid sogginess—add them just before serving for maximum crunch.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well without the croutons. Ladle cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to keep the cheese smoothly incorporated. Add a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick. Then, toss in fresh hoagie croutons at serving time to bring back the wonderful crunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While provolone is classic for Philly cheesesteaks, feel free to use mozzarella or fontina for a similar melt and mild flavor. Just keep the cheese quantity steady to maintain that creamy texture.

What is the best cut of beef for this soup?

Top sirloin steak is the best choice because it’s tender yet flavorful. You can also use ribeye or flank steak if thinly sliced, but avoid tougher cuts that might not soften well in the soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the steak for hearty mushrooms or plant-based beef substitutes. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and add extra seasonings like smoked paprika for depth.

How can I make the hoagie croutons more flavorful?

Before baking, toss the bread cubes with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor that enhances every crunchy bite.

Is this soup spicy?

The recipe as written is mild and savory, perfect for all taste buds. If you love spice, consider adding diced jalapeños during the sautéing stage or topping bowls with hot sauce for a kick.

Final Thoughts

This Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Hoagie Croutons Recipe is a heartwarming celebration of classic flavors wrapped in a cozy, creamy bowl. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family dinner or impressing friends, it brings comfort and excitement together effortlessly. Don’t hesitate to dive in and enjoy this incredible soup that transforms a beloved sandwich into something wonderfully new. Happy cooking!