Description of this recipe
The Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring is a delightful and crowd-pleasing twist on the classic Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. This recipe takes all the beloved elements of the original—tender steak, savory sautéed vegetables, and melted provolone cheese—and wraps them in flaky, golden-brown crescent roll dough. The result is a shareable, visually appealing ring that’s perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or a fun family dinner. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a guaranteed hit with everyone who tries it.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll absolutely fall in love with the Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring for several compelling reasons. First, it’s an incredibly fun and unique way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak. The flaky, buttery crescent roll dough adds a delightful textural contrast to the savory filling, creating a satisfying bite every time. Second, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this impressive dish in no time. Third, it’s a crowd-pleaser! The ring format makes it perfect for sharing, and everyone will be impressed by its presentation. Fourth, it’s customizable; you can easily adapt the filling to suit your preferences, adding different cheeses, vegetables, or sauces. Finally, it’s a guaranteed way to elevate any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.
Ingredients:
Ingredient Amount
Olive oil 1 tbsp
Onion (medium, thinly sliced) 1
Green bell pepper (thinly sliced) 1
Red bell pepper (thinly sliced) 1
Beef steak strips 1 lb
Salt & black pepper To taste
Garlic powder 1 tsp
Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp
Provolone cheese (grated) 1 cup
Crescent roll dough 2 boxes
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional
Preparation:
Step 1: Prep the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the crescent ring from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Parchment paper is highly recommended as it can withstand the heat and provides a non-stick surface, ensuring that the bottom of the ring is perfectly golden and not burnt.
Step 2: Sauté the veggies
In a large skillet, preferably cast iron or non-stick, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the thinly sliced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and lightly caramelized. Caramelizing the vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor to the filling. Ensure the vegetables are thinly sliced to allow them to cook evenly and blend seamlessly with the steak.
Step 3: Cook the steak
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet to create an empty space. Add 1 pound of beef steak strips to the skillet, seasoning generously with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Sear the steak strips for 3–5 minutes, until they are browned and cooked through. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce and combine the steak with the sautéed vegetables. The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory umami note that complements the beef and vegetables perfectly. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure the steak strips sear properly and don’t steam.
Step 4: Build the ring
Unroll two boxes of crescent roll dough. On the prepared baking sheet, arrange the crescent roll triangles in a circle, overlapping the wide ends to form a ring with the points facing outward. Ensure the points are facing away from the center. This arrangement creates a visually appealing and easy-to-slice ring. The wide ends should overlap slightly to create a secure base for the filling. This step is crucial for the final presentation of the ring.
Step 5: Fill and fold
Spoon the steak and vegetable mixture evenly around the wide ends of the crescent roll dough. Distribute the filling uniformly to ensure each slice of the ring is packed with flavor. Sprinkle generously with 1 cup of grated provolone cheese. Provolone cheese is the traditional choice for Philly Cheesesteaks, but you can also use mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses. Fold the pointed ends of the crescent roll triangles over the filling and tuck them underneath to seal the ring. This creates a secure enclosure for the filling and gives the ring its signature shape.
Step 6: Bake to perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and cooked through. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the ring. The dough should be puffed up and evenly browned. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Step 7: Garnish & serve
Once the ring is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Slice the Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring into portions and serve warm. It’s perfect for game day, gatherings, or a cozy night in. The warmth of the ring enhances the flavors and textures, making it an irresistible treat.
COOKING Rating:
Easy to Medium.
Serving Suggestions:
The Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
- As a Party Appetizer: Slice the ring into small portions and serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties, game day gatherings, or potlucks. It’s easy to eat and always a hit with guests.
- Main Course Delight: Serve larger slices as a main course for a satisfying family dinner. Pair it with a simple side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Game Day Feast: Make it the centerpiece of your game day spread, surrounded by other snacks like chips, dips, and wings. Its hearty nature makes it perfect for fueling up during the game.
- Casual Brunch: Offer slices of the crescent ring as part of a casual brunch spread. It pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee.
- Dipping Sauces: Provide a variety of dipping sauces to complement the flavors of the Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring. Some great options include:
- Cheese Sauce: A creamy cheese sauce adds extra richness and flavor.
- Spicy Mayo: A spicy mayo provides a kick and enhances the savory notes.
- Horseradish Sauce: A tangy horseradish sauce cuts through the richness and adds a zesty element.
- Marinara Sauce: A classic marinara sauce offers a familiar and comforting flavor.
Tips:
- Use Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the final product will taste. Opt for fresh vegetables, high-quality steak, and flavorful cheese.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When cooking the steak, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook the steak in batches if necessary to ensure it sears properly and doesn’t steam.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling to your liking. Add mushrooms, jalapeños, or different types of cheese.
- Seal the Ring Properly: Make sure to tuck the pointed ends of the crescent roll triangles securely underneath the ring to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Monitor the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the ring while it’s baking to ensure it doesn’t overbrown. If the top starts to get too dark, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein: 20-25g per serving
Sodium: 500-600mg per serving
Conclusion
The Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring is a delightful and inventive twist on a classic favorite. Its combination of savory flavors, flaky texture, and appealing presentation makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or looking for a fun way to elevate your game day spread, this recipe is sure to impress. The ease of preparation, coupled with the ability to customize the filling, ensures that it will become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors and the satisfaction of creating a dish that brings smiles to the faces of those you share it with. This recipe is not just about making food; it’s about creating memories and sharing delicious moments with loved ones.
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of provolone?
A: Absolutely! While provolone is the traditional cheese for Philly Cheesesteaks, you can certainly substitute it with other cheeses based on your preference. Some great alternatives include mozzarella, cheddar, Swiss, or even a blend of different cheeses. Each cheese will impart its unique flavor profile, so experiment to find your favorite combination. For instance, mozzarella will offer a mild and creamy taste, while cheddar will provide a sharper and more robust flavor.
Q2: Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely prepare the filling ahead of time to save time on the day you plan to bake the crescent ring. Simply cook the steak and vegetables as instructed, and then store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to assemble the ring, just reheat the filling slightly before spooning it onto the crescent roll dough. This is a great way to break up the preparation process and make it even easier to whip up this dish on a busy day.
Q3: Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling to your liking by adding other vegetables. Mushrooms are a popular addition to Philly Cheesesteaks, and they add a savory, earthy flavor to the filling. Other great options include sautéed bell peppers of different colors, onions, or even some diced jalapeños for a bit of heat. Just sauté any additional vegetables along with the onions and bell peppers as instructed in the recipe.
Q4: How do I prevent the bottom of the crescent ring from getting soggy?
A: To prevent the bottom of the crescent ring from getting soggy, make sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper creates a barrier between the dough and the baking sheet, which helps to prevent moisture from seeping into the dough and causing it to become soggy. Additionally, avoid overfilling the ring with the steak and vegetable mixture, as this can also contribute to sogginess. Ensuring the filling is not too wet before adding it to the dough is also key.
Q5: Can I freeze the Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring after baking?
A: Yes, you can freeze the Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring after baking, although the texture of the crescent roll dough may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let the ring cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Be aware that the dough might not be as flaky as it was when freshly baked, but it will still be delicious.
