Name: Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks You’ll Want Every Night
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Vegan seitan beef (Or portobello mushrooms for a different flavor); 1 medium Green bell pepper (Can mix with other bell or spicy peppers); 1 medium Yellow onion (Shallots or red onions are good substitutes); 2 cloves Minced garlic (Fresh garlic preferred; garlic powder as a substitute); 2 tablespoons Vegan butter (Or olive oil as a lighter alternative); 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour (Gluten-free flour can be used); 1 cup Unsweetened almond milk (Any non-dairy milk can be substituted); 1 cup Vegan provolone (Alternatives like vegan Swiss or mozzarella work well); 4 rolls Hoagie rolls (Choose vegan rolls from local bakery)

The sizzling aroma of sautéed onions and peppers instantly transports me back to bustling street corners in Philadelphia, where the heart of classic cheesesteaks draws food lovers from near and far. However, my version takes a turn towards the plant-based with these Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks using seitan, bringing all the familiar goodness to your dinner table in under 25 minutes. Packed with flavor and customizable to fit your palate, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without compromising your lifestyle. With options to swap seitan for mushrooms or tempeh, and gluten-free alternatives available, everyone can join in on the fun! Ready to indulge in a tasty twist on a classic? Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

Why will you love these cheesesteaks?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings. No need for complicated steps!

Customizable Flavors: With options to swap seitan for mushrooms or tempeh, every bite can reflect your unique taste preferences. Spice it up or keep it simple!

Indulgent Yet Guilt-Free: Enjoy the rich, creamy cheese sauce without any dairy in sight. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and healthy eating!

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Whether you’re feeding a vegan crowd or curious omnivores, these cheesesteaks satisfy everyone’s appetite for something delicious.

Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside crispy homemade fries or a zesty side salad, like Savory Chicken Wraps for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks Ingredients

For the Cheesesteak Filling

Vegan Seitan Beef – Provides the chewy, meaty texture; substitute with portobello mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
Green Bell Pepper – Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch; feel free to mix in colorful bell peppers or spicy peppers for variety.
Yellow Onion – Contributes to the overall sweetness and depth; shallots or red onions can easily replace it.
Minced Garlic – Enhances the flavor; using fresh garlic cloves brings the best taste, though garlic powder works as a quick substitute.

For the Cheese Sauce

Vegan Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; olive oil is a lighter alternative if preferred.
All-Purpose Flour – Used for thickening the creamy cheese sauce; gluten-free flour can be a perfect substitute here.
Unsweetened Almond Milk – Gives the sauce its creamy consistency; switch to any non-dairy milk like soy or oat for the same effect.
Vegan Provolone – The star of the cheese sauce, offering that creamy mouthfeel; alternatives like vegan Swiss or mozzarella work beautifully.

For Assembling

Hoagie Rolls – The perfect vessel for your fillings; make sure to choose vegan rolls from your local bakery to keep it plant-based.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks

Step 1: Prepare the Seitan
If you’re using store-bought seitan for your Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks, start by slicing it thinly—aim for ¼-inch pieces to mimic the texture of traditional cheesesteak fillings. If you prefer making homemade seitan, follow your favorite recipe to achieve a chewy, meaty consistency. Set aside while you prep the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegan butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced yellow onion and green bell pepper, stirring frequently. Cook for about 5–8 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve softened and developed a golden color, adding rich flavor to your Philly cheesesteaks.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt a tablespoon of vegan butter over low heat. Gradually whisk in two tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Slowly add 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk while constantly stirring to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens; then stir in 1 cup of vegan provolone until fully melted and creamy.

Step 4: Toast the Hoagie Rolls
For the perfect hoagie rolls, mix a tablespoon of minced garlic with a tablespoon of vegan butter. Spread this mixture generously inside each hoagie roll and place them in a skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown. This step adds a delicious garlicky crunch to your Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesesteaks
Once your ingredients are ready, it’s time to assemble your Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks! Start by spreading a generous amount of cheese sauce on the inside of each toasted hoagie roll. Layer in the sautéed vegetables and sliced seitan, then drizzle with more cheese sauce if desired. Close the rolls and prepare to savor your delicious plant-based creation!

Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists and make this dish your own!

Mushroom Swap: Use portobello or cremini mushrooms for a rich, meaty flavor that complements the creamy cheese sauce. The earthiness of mushrooms adds depth, making every bite unforgettable.
Spicy Option: Toss in jalapeños or banana peppers while sautéing the vegetables for an electrifying kick. This adds heat that balances the creamy cheese, creating a taste sensation that’s anything but ordinary.
Gluten-Free: Swap the hoagie rolls with gluten-free wraps or even large lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy alternative. Even if you’re gluten-sensitive, you can still indulge in this delightful classic!
Smoky Cheese: Try a smoky vegan cheese alternative to elevate the flavor profile even further. The added smokiness will take your cheesesteaks to a new level of enjoyment.
Herbed Cream Cheese: Spread herbed vegan cream cheese inside the rolls for a herby twist. This simple addition elevates the flavor and makes each bite even more exciting.
Tempeh Twist: Substitute seitan with tempeh for a firm, protein-packed option that offers a slightly nutty flavor. It’s a great way to switch up the taste while keeping the recipe healthy!
Extra Veggies: Consider adding spinach or diced tomatoes to your filling for a burst of freshness. This extra boost not only enhances flavor but increases the nutritional value, too!
Savory Sauce Boost: Drizzle your cheesesteaks with a tangy vegan sauce or homemade hot sauce for some extra zest. These enhancements can add layers of flavor that will surprise and delight your taste buds!

For delightful pairings, enjoy these cheesesteaks with crispy homemade fries or a zesty side salad, like those featured in the recipes for Savory Chicken Wraps or Savory Slow Cooker.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sautéed onions and peppers up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the creamy cheese sauce can be made 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate it and reheat gently before assembling. To maintain the quality, avoid toasting the hoagie rolls until you are ready to serve to keep them crisp. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the vegetables and cheese sauce, toast the rolls, and layer everything together for delicious, quick dining on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Quick and Easy Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks

A delicious meal is only complete when you thoughtfully consider what to serve alongside these hearty cheesesteaks.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crunch of these fries provide a delightful contrast to the savory cheesesteaks. Pairing them adds a fun twist to your meal!
Zesty Cabbage Slaw: A refreshing slaw with a tangy vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the cheese sauce, adding a burst of flavor and texture to your plate.
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These tender sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven, offering a flavorful, crispy addition that complements the overall meal. They’re perfect for a hearty side!
Creamy Avocado Salad: Sliced avocado gently mixed with lime and cilantro offers a creamy, fresh counterpart to the cheesesteaks’ richness while providing healthy fats.
Light and Tangy Gazpacho: This chilled soup is bursting with fresh vegetables, and its cool, refreshing nature balances the warm cheesesteaks, making each bite more delightful.
Craft Beverages: Pair them with a cold craft beer or a refreshing iced tea to elevate your dining experience, ensuring every bite is matched with a delightful sip.
Chocolate Banana Ice Cream: For the perfect sweet ending, this dairy-free treat provides a creamy finish that feels indulgent yet remains guilt-free, wonderfully capping off your meal.

Expert Tips for Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks

Thin Slices: Make sure to slice the seitan thinly for a texture that closely resembles traditional cheesesteak fillings, enhancing overall satisfaction.
Proper Sautéing: Sauté your onions and peppers until they’re tender and slightly charred; this caramelization adds depth to the flavors.
Thickening Right: Whisk the flour into the melted vegan butter thoroughly to avoid lumps in your cheese sauce; taking this step ensures a creamy texture.
Toasting Tips: Don’t skip toasting the hoagie rolls! It not only adds a delightful crunch but also prevents the rolls from getting soggy once filled.
Personalize It: Embrace the customizable nature of this dish! Adjust seasonings and add extra veggies or spices to make these Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks your own.

How to Store and Freeze Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks

Fridge: Store components in airtight containers, with sautéed vegetables, seitan, and hoagie rolls kept separately for freshness. They can last for up to 5-7 days.
Freezer: The seitan can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the seitan and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, then assemble in toasted hoagie rolls with cheese sauce. Enjoy your Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks fresh!
Make-Ahead: Prepare the sautéed veggies and cheese sauce in advance (up to 3 days and 24 hours, respectively) for a quick assembly on busy nights.

Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe vegetables for my cheesesteaks?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, choose bell peppers that are firm with bright, shiny skin. Avoid any that have dark spots or are wrinkled. Onions should feel heavy for their size and have papery skin. As for garlic, look for firm bulbs without any green sprouts.

What is the best way to store leftover cheesesteak ingredients?
Very! For optimal freshness, keep components like sautéed vegetables, seitan, and hoagie rolls in separate airtight containers. They’ll last for up to 5-7 days in the fridge. If you combine them before storing, it may affect the texture and taste of the hoagie rolls.

Can I freeze the components of these vegan cheesesteaks?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze the seitan for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic or stored in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to use, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet before assembling.

What should I do if my cheese sauce is lumpy?
If you find your cheese sauce isn’t smooth, don’t worry! Start by whisking it vigorously over low heat—this will help to break up any lumps. If it remains lumpy, quickly transfer the sauce to a blender and blend until smooth. Return it to the pot and re-heat gently, stirring constantly.

Are there any dietary considerations with these cheesesteaks?
Absolutely! Since these Savory Vegan Philly Cheesesteaks are plant-based, they’re great for vegans! If anyone has gluten allergies, swap out the seitan for mushrooms or tempeh, and use gluten-free hoagie rolls or lettuce wraps. Always check the labels of vegan cheese and other ingredients for potential allergens.

Can I make these cheesesteaks ahead of time?
Very much! You can prepare the sautéed vegetables and cheese sauce up to 3 days and 24 hours ahead of time, respectively. Store them separately, and when you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat and assemble. This makes for quick dinner action on busy weeknights!