Philly Cheese Egg Roll Recipe

Philly Cheese Egg Roll Recipe

Somewhere between a classic Philly cheesesteak and a perfectly crispy appetizer lives this philly cheese egg roll recipe – and once you make it, you’ll wonder where it’s been your whole life.

Thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted provolone cheese are wrapped inside a golden, crunchy egg roll shell and served alongside a smoky, creamy chipotle mayo dip.

Whether you’re hosting game day, throwing a casual dinner party, or just craving something bold and satisfying, these cheesesteak egg rolls hit every mark.

They’re easier to pull together than you’d expect and deliver serious restaurant-quality flavor right from your own kitchen.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love Philly Cheese Egg Roll Recipe

These philly cheesesteak egg rolls are the kind of crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears before you even sit down. They combine bold, familiar flavors with a satisfying crunch that keeps everyone coming back for more.

  • Ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Perfectly crispy exterior with a gooey, cheesy interior
  • Fully customizable filling for different tastes and preferences
  • Makes an ideal game-day snack, party appetizer, or fun dinner
  • The chipotle mayo dip adds bold, smoky heat in every bite
  • Great for meal prepping and reheating without losing crunch
  • Kid-friendly and adult-approved at the same table
  • Freezer-friendly before frying for easy future batches
  • Tastes just as impressive as any restaurant-style starter

What Does Philly Cheese Egg Roll Taste Like?

Biting into one of these philly cheese egg rolls is a full sensory experience. The wrapper shatters with a satisfying crunch, giving way to a rich, savory filling that’s deeply seasoned and unmistakably comforting.

Philly Cheese Egg Roll

The ribeye steak is tender and juicy, carrying warm notes of smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder that build on each other beautifully. Melted provolone ties everything together with its mild, buttery creaminess, while the sautéed peppers add a subtle natural sweetness.

The chipotle mayo brings the whole plate to life – smoky, tangy, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting without overwhelming the steak. Every bite balances richness, heat, and crunch in a way that’s incredibly satisfying.

Philly Cheese Egg Roll Recipe Ingredients

Gather all the following ingredients, before you start making this Philly Cheese Egg Roll.

For the Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup diced yellow onion
  • ½ cup diced bell peppers (mix of red and green)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 12 ounces (about 340g) ribeye steak, thinly sliced
  • ½ tablespoon seasoned salt
  • ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 10–12 egg roll wrappers
  • 10–12 slices provolone cheese
  • Water, for sealing the wrappers
  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying

For the Chipotle Mayo Dipping Sauce

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • Juice of ½ lime
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Kitchen Tools & Utensils

  1. Large skillet or cast iron pan
  2. Sharp knife and cutting board
  3. Small mixing bowl
  4. Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
  5. Cooking thermometer
  6. Wire rack with paper towels underneath
  7. Tongs
  8. Pastry brush or small spoon (for water-sealing wrappers)
  9. Blender or food processor
  10. Serving platter

Preparation & Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 10–12 egg rolls

Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate

How to Make Philly Cheese Egg Roll

Follow these steps in order for the best results – each one builds on the last to ensure your filling is flavorful, your wrappers seal tight, and your egg rolls fry up perfectly golden every single time.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients and Seasoning

Begin by preparing all of your ingredients. Dice the red and green bell peppers, then dice the onion if it isn’t already prepared. In a small bowl, combine the seasoned salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix everything well until evenly combined, then set the seasoning blend aside so it’s ready to use when cooking the steak.

Prepare the Ingredients and Seasoning

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion along with the diced red and green bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for 1 more minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.

Sauté the Vegetables

Step 3: Cook the Ribeye Steak

Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture evenly over the meat and stir well so every piece is coated. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the steak is fully cooked and nicely browned. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly before assembling the egg rolls.

Cook the Ribeye Steak

Step 4: Assemble the Egg Rolls

Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean work surface with one corner pointing toward you. Place a slice of provolone cheese in the center, then add about 2 scoops of the cooked steak mixture on top. Be careful not to overfill the wrapper, as this can make it difficult to seal. Brush the edges of the wrapper lightly with water. Fold both side corners toward the center, then fold the bottom corner over the filling. Roll the wrapper tightly, leaving the top corner exposed like a small triangle. Brush that final triangle with a little more water, then finish rolling to create a tightly sealed egg roll. Repeat until all of the filling has been used.

Assemble the Egg Rolls

Step 5: Fry Until Crispy and Golden

Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the egg rolls in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally so they brown evenly on all sides. Once they are crispy and golden brown, transfer them to a wire rack to drain while you fry the remaining egg rolls.

Fry Until Crispy and Golden

Step 6: Blend the Chipotle Mayo

While the egg rolls cool slightly, prepare the dipping sauce. Add the mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper to a blender or food processor. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy with no large pieces remaining.

Blend the Chipotle Mayo

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the crispy Philly cheese egg rolls on a serving platter alongside the homemade chipotle mayo for dipping.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve them while they’re hot so you can enjoy the crunchy wrapper, gooey provolone cheese, and perfectly seasoned ribeye steak filling at their best.

Customization & Serving Pairing Ideas for Philly Cheese Egg Roll

This philly cheese egg roll recipe is incredibly flexible, making it easy to adapt for different occasions, flavor preferences, and dietary needs without compromising on that signature cheesesteak satisfaction.

This recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Here are seven delicious ideas:

1. Swap the Protein

Ribeye is traditional, but thinly sliced chicken breast, ground beef, or even shaved lamb work beautifully in this filling. Chicken especially pairs well with the chipotle mayo, creating a lighter but equally satisfying egg roll that appeals to those who prefer poultry over red meat.

2. Change Up the Cheese

Provolone is a classic choice, but white American cheese gives a creamier, more melty result. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while sharp cheddar brings a more pronounced savory depth. Use whatever melts well and suits your crowd.

3. Add Mushrooms to the Filling

Sliced cremini or baby bella mushrooms sautéed with the onions and peppers add an earthy, meaty layer to the filling. This is also a great way to bulk up the recipe if you’re feeding a larger group without using extra steak.

Copycat Philly Cheese Egg Roll Recipe

4. Make Them Baked or Air-Fried

For a lighter version, brush the assembled egg rolls with a thin coat of oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through. An air fryer at 390°F works equally well in about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll still get a satisfying crunch with far less oil.

5. Build a Dipping Sauce Bar

Beyond the chipotle mayo, set out a few extra sauces for dipping variety. Classic cheese sauce, horseradish cream, spicy ranch, or even a simple sriracha mayo all complement the flavors in these cheesesteak egg rolls exceptionally well.

6. Serve Over a Salad

Slice the finished egg rolls on a diagonal and lay them over a bed of crispy romaine or arugula dressed with a light vinaigrette. Serve with deviled eggs on the side for a creamy, flavorful addition that perfectly complements the crispy egg rolls and fresh salad. It turns this appetizer into a full, impressive meal that looks just as good as it tastes.

7. Mini Party Rolls

Cut each egg roll wrapper into smaller squares before assembling to create bite-sized mini egg rolls. These are perfect for cocktail parties, potlucks, or any gathering where guests are eating standing up. They fry in 2 to 3 minutes and are nearly impossible to put down.

Expert Cooking Tips for Perfect Philly Cheese Egg Rolls Recipe

Mastering this philly cheesesteak egg roll recipe comes down to a few key techniques that separate good results from truly great ones every single time you make them.

Follow these expert tips for perfect results every time:

1. Slice the Steak While Partially Frozen

Thin, even slices are critical for a tender filling. Place the ribeye in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes before slicing – it firms up just enough to make clean, paper-thin cuts much easier to achieve without a deli slicer.

2. Don’t Skip the Cooling Step

Letting the filling cool for at least 5 to 10 minutes before assembly is essential. Hot filling creates steam inside the wrapper, which weakens the seal and can cause the egg roll to burst open during frying. A slightly cooled filling holds together far better.

3. Seal Your Wrappers Thoroughly

Water is your best friend here. Make sure every edge and the final triangular flap are lightly but completely moistened before pressing them closed. Any unsealed area is an entry point for hot oil, which causes the filling to leak and the wrapper to separate.

Delicious Recipe of Philly Cheese Egg Roll

4. Maintain Oil Temperature Consistently

A thermometer is not optional – it’s the difference between crispy and greasy. Oil that drops below 340°F (171°C) causes the wrapper to absorb oil rather than fry in it. Between batches, allow the oil to return fully to 350°F before adding the next round.

5. Fry in Small Batches

Adding too many egg rolls at once lowers the oil temperature rapidly and causes uneven browning. Work in batches of 3 to 4 at a time to maintain the heat and ensure every roll gets an even, golden, crackly crust all the way around.

6. Rest on a Wire Rack, Not Paper Towels

Paper towels trap steam beneath the egg rolls, softening the bottom of the wrapper. A wire rack allows air to circulate underneath, keeping the entire surface crispy from the moment they come out of the oil until the moment they’re served.

7. Season the Filling Generously

Egg roll wrappers themselves have almost no flavor, so the filling carries everything. Taste the steak mixture before assembling and adjust seasoning as needed. A well-seasoned, bold filling ensures every bite – even at the very center – tastes complete and satisfying.

Storage & Reheating Guidance

Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an air fryer at 375°F for 4 to 5 minutes or a conventional oven at 400°F for about 8 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it makes the wrapper soggy. Unfried assembled egg rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months – fry directly from frozen, adding 1 to 2 extra minutes to the cook time.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (1 egg roll with chipotle mayo), approximate values:

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Total Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 15g

Nutrition values are estimates based on standard ingredients and will vary depending on specific brands, portion sizes, and any substitutions made.

Yield: 12

Philly Cheese Egg Roll Recipe

Philly Cheese Egg Roll Recipe
5.0 Stars (1 Review)

Somewhere between a classic Philly cheesesteak and a perfectly crispy appetizer lives this philly cheese egg roll recipe – and once you make it, you’ll wonder where it’s been your whole life. Thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted provolone cheese are wrapped inside a golden, crunchy egg roll shell and served alongside a smoky, creamy chipotle mayo dip.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup diced yellow onion
  • ½ cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 12 ounces (about 340g) ribeye steak
  • ½ tablespoon seasoned salt
  • ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 10–12 egg roll wrappers
  • 10–12 slices provolone cheese
  • Water
  • Vegetable oil
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • Juice of ½ lime
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients and Seasoning
    Begin by preparing all of your ingredients. Dice the red and green bell peppers, then dice the onion if it isn’t already prepared. In a small bowl, combine the seasoned salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix everything well until evenly combined, then set the seasoning blend aside so it’s ready to use when cooking the steak.

    Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion along with the diced red and green bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for 1 more minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.

    Step 3: Cook the Ribeye Steak
    Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture evenly over the meat and stir well so every piece is coated. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the steak is fully cooked and nicely browned. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly before assembling the egg rolls.

    Step 4: Assemble the Egg Rolls
    Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean work surface with one corner pointing toward you. Place a slice of provolone cheese in the center, then add about 2 scoops of the cooked steak mixture on top. Be careful not to overfill the wrapper, as this can make it difficult to seal. Brush the edges of the wrapper lightly with water. Fold both side corners toward the center, then fold the bottom corner over the filling. Roll the wrapper tightly, leaving the top corner exposed like a small triangle. Brush that final triangle with a little more water, then finish rolling to create a tightly sealed egg roll. Repeat until all of the filling has been used.

    Step 5: Fry Until Crispy and Golden
    Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the egg rolls in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally so they brown evenly on all sides. Once they are crispy and golden brown, transfer them to a wire rack to drain while you fry the remaining egg rolls.

    Step 6: Blend the Chipotle Mayo
    While the egg rolls cool slightly, prepare the dipping sauce. Add the mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper to a blender or food processor. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy with no large pieces remaining.

    Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
    Arrange the crispy Philly cheese egg rolls on a serving platter alongside the homemade chipotle mayo for dipping. Serve them while they’re hot so you can enjoy the crunchy wrapper, gooey provolone cheese, and perfectly seasoned ribeye steak filling at their best.

Notes

Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an air fryer at 375°F for 4 to 5 minutes or a conventional oven at 400°F for about 8 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it makes the wrapper soggy. Unfried assembled egg rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months – fry directly from frozen, adding 1 to 2 extra minutes to the cook time.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

12

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 320

Common Queries & FAQs

When you give this Philly Cheese Egg Roll Recipe a try, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry-we’ve rounded up answers to the most common ones to help you out.

1. What is a Philly cheese egg roll?

A Philly cheese egg roll is a fusion appetizer that combines the classic flavors of a Philadelphia cheesesteak – thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melted cheese – wrapped inside a crispy egg roll shell and deep-fried until golden. It’s typically served with a creamy or spicy dipping sauce like chipotle mayo.

2. What kind of cheese is best for Philly cheesesteak egg rolls?

Provolone is the most popular choice for cheesesteak egg rolls because it melts smoothly and has a mild, savory flavor that doesn’t overpower the beef. White American cheese is a close second for those who prefer an extra creamy, gooey melt. Pepper jack works well if you want added heat.

3. Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the egg rolls fully and refrigerate them (unfried) for up to 24 hours, or freeze them for up to 2 months. This makes them ideal for prepping in advance before a party. Fry them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and crunch.

4. Can I air-fry Philly cheese egg rolls instead of deep-frying?

Absolutely. Lightly brush or spray the assembled egg rolls with oil, then air-fry at 390°F (199°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The result is noticeably crispier than baking and uses significantly less oil than deep-frying, making it a practical everyday option.

5. What dipping sauce goes best with cheesesteak egg rolls?

The homemade chipotle mayo in this recipe is a standout pairing – smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy. Other great options include classic queso dip, spicy ranch, horseradish sauce, or a simple garlic aioli. Having two or three sauces available is always a crowd-pleasing move.

6. Why did my egg rolls burst open during frying?

This usually happens for two reasons: the wrappers weren’t sealed properly with enough water, or the filling was still too hot when assembled, creating internal steam pressure. Always cool your filling before rolling and make sure every seam is firmly pressed and sealed before the egg rolls touch the oil.

7. What cut of beef works best for this recipe?

Ribeye is the traditional and most flavorful choice because of its fat content and tenderness once cooked. Flank steak and sirloin are leaner alternatives that still work well. For convenience, look for pre-shaved beef at the grocery store – it’s often sold specifically for Philly cheesesteak recipes.

8. How do I keep Philly cheese egg rolls crispy after frying?

Rest them on a wire rack immediately after frying rather than on paper towels. Serve within 10 to 15 minutes of cooking for peak crunch. If you’re keeping them warm for a gathering, place them uncovered in a 250°F (120°C) oven on a wire rack – this holds the heat without creating steam that softens the wrapper.

This philly cheese egg roll recipe brings together everything you love about a classic cheesesteak and wraps it in a golden, crispy shell that’s made for sharing. From the seasoned ribeye filling to the silky chipotle mayo, every component is built for maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Whether you’re serving these at a party, a game-day spread, or a weeknight dinner, they’re guaranteed to impress. Make a full batch, set out the dipping sauces, and watch them disappear. Once you try these, they’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

We’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Give it a try, then drop a comment below to share your thoughts and tips with us. You can also follow us on Pinterest, and YouTube for more delicious updates and kitchen inspiration. Your feedback and support mean the world to us!

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