As I stirred the pot, a fragrant aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly making me feel at home. This One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast is my go-to comfort food, blending the savory richness of tender beef and crispy bacon with the creamy warmth of melted cheese. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser that delights everyone from friends to family, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up on those busy weeknights. Imagine serving a bowl of velvety soup alongside crunchy, cheesy toast that perfectly complements every spoonful. Ready to bring the heart of a classic Philly cheesesteak to your table? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: This One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup brings the coziness of a classic cheesesteak right to your bowl, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
Easy Prep: With just one pot and simple ingredients, it’s a breeze to make—perfect for busy nights when time is tight.
Savory Satisfaction: Featuring tender beef, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese, every spoonful is packed with mouthwatering flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s family or friends gathered around, this soup will have everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Options: Easily adaptable, it can cater to gluten-free diets and even vegetarian preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!
Dive deeper into the world of comforting meals with similar dishes that are just as easy to whip up!

One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Tender Beef – Provides rich flavor and heartiness to the soup. Use ground beef or thinly sliced steak for a texture that mimics authentic cheesesteaks.
Crispy Bacon – Adds crunch and a smoky element; substituting with turkey bacon can lighten the dish without sacrificing taste.
Cheese (e.g., provolone or Cheddar) – Melts into the soup for creaminess; using freshly melted cheese is key to maintain a velvety texture.
Unsweetened Almond/Oat Milk – Contributes to a creamy base without overpowering the other flavors; whole milk or cream can create a richer taste.
Cornstarch – Thickens the soup to your desired consistency; mix it with water before adding to avoid clumps.
Balsamic Vinegar/Dijon Mustard – Enhances flavor complexity; a dash is optional but adds a delightful zing to the One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

For the Cheesy Toast

Bread – The perfect canvas for cheesy goodness; toast thoroughly before adding cheese to maintain that delightful crunch.
Cheese for Topping – Sprinkle on top of the bread; it should bubble and brown for extra flavor and texture when broiled.

Indulge in the deliciousness of this One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast, and savor every comforting spoonful!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast

Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large pot, over medium heat, add diced bacon. Cook for about 6–8 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden, releasing its savory drippings. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel, leaving the drippings behind for added flavor in your One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup.

Step 2: Brown Beef
In the same pot with the residual bacon drippings, add your ground beef or thinly sliced steak. Cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is nicely browned and no pink remains. The browned beef will create a rich base for your soup.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the unsweetened almond or oat milk, stirring to combine. Add in the cheese, balsamic vinegar, and any seasonings you prefer. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 3–4 minutes, stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy goodness that envelops the meat.

Step 4: Thicken Soup
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a splash of water until smooth and free of lumps. Gradually pour this mixture into the One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup while stirring continuously. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, letting it thicken to your desired consistency, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Prepare Toast
While the soup thickens, preheat your broiler. Place slices of bread on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler for about 2–3 minutes, until they are golden brown. Remove them from the oven, sprinkle cheese generously on top of each slice, and broil again for an additional 1–2 minutes until bubbly and melted.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup into bowls, ensuring each serving is hearty with beef and cheese. Serve alongside the crunchy cheesy toast for dipping. This comforting meal is now ready to delight your family and friends, inviting them to savor that classic cheesesteak flavor!

One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup Variations

Feel free to make this One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup truly your own with these fun twists and substitutes that will tantalize your taste buds.

Turkey Bacon: Swap out bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter, yet still crunchy texture without sacrificing flavor. It’s a fantastic way to keep things lean!
Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and replace meat with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a comforting vegetarian option that still retains rich flavors.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce! The heat works wonderfully with the creamy soup, giving it a delightful edge.
Creamy Dream: Consider blending in a dollop of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture. It melts beautifully and elevates the soup’s richness.
Mixed Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor twist. Each cheese brings its own personality to the dish, making every bowl different.
Freestyle Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Add crispy fried onions or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and crunch.
Herb Infusion: Stir in a sprinkle of dried thyme or oregano while the soup simmers. These herbs will add layers of aromatic flavor that pair beautifully with the cheesesteak essence.
Gluten-Free Twist: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread for the cheesy toast and ensure that the other ingredients meet dietary needs. Enjoy the same beloved flavors without any worry!

With these variations at your fingertips, your One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup will never feel routine—it’s your culinary canvas! For even more inspiration, check out my recipes for hearty soups and comfort food classics!

How to Store and Freeze One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Fridge: Store your One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but will still taste great as leftovers!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Remember to leave space for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat gently on the stove. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of milk or broth to regain its creamy texture.

Cheese Tip: Avoid freezing the soup with cheese; it’s best to add fresh cheese after reheating for that melty goodness!

What to Serve with One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast

Elevate your cozy meal experience with delightful sides that enhance each spoonful of this comforting soup.

Crispy Potato Wedges: These golden delights bring a crunchy contrast, perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and balancing textures.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and infused with rich garlic flavor, these breadsticks are the ultimate companion for soaking up every bit of the soup’s velvety goodness.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, zesty salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup, adding a welcome crunch that brightens the overall meal. Topped with a tangy vinaigrette, it rounds out your dinner wonderfully.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and roasted bell peppers bring a touch of sweetness and nutrition that pairs beautifully with hearty flavors of the soup.
Sweet Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread creates a lovely contrast with the savory notes of the soup, making each bite a delightful experience.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing drink like iced tea or a chilled glass of lemonade enhances the comforting richness of the soup and keeps your palate refreshed.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, their warm gooeyness providing a dreamy finish to this fulfilling dinner.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the soup base (browning the beef and adding the other ingredients) up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently to maintain that creamy texture. For the cheesy toast, prepare the bread and cheese topping, but wait to broil until just before serving to keep it crispy. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delicious flavors without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Avoid Soggy Toast: Remember to toast your bread thoroughly before broiling with cheese. This ensures a crispy base that won’t become soggy while dipping.
Cheese Selection: Opt for high-quality provolone or Cheddar for that perfect melty texture. Fresh cheese added after reheating gives the best results in your One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup.
Monitor Thickness: Stir the soup regularly to prevent sticking, and if it thickens too much, gently stir in additional milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding sautéed onions and bell peppers for extra flavor. This can elevate your soup and add visual appeal.
Storage Best Practices: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and consume within three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast Recipe FAQs

What kind of beef should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! For this One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup, I recommend using ground beef or thinly sliced steak. Ground beef offers a heartier texture, while sliced steak can provide a more authentic cheesesteak feel. Just ensure the beef is fresh and of good quality for the best flavor!

How should I store leftovers from the soup?
For optimal freshness, store your leftover One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to preserve its creamy texture, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Can I freeze this soup for future meals?
Certainly! To freeze the One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding fresh cheese after reheating for that perfect melt!

What if my soup turns out too thick?
Very common! If your One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup ends up thicker than you’d like, don’t fret. Just stir in a little extra milk or broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This will not only adjust the thickness but also enhance the creaminess!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets by selecting gluten-free bread and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. If you’re concerned about allergies, always check cheese and broth labels, or you might want to substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative!

What bread works best for the cheesy toast?
For the cheesy toast, I often use a crusty sourdough or French bread—these types lend themselves beautifully to toasting! However, feel free to experiment with your favorite kind of bread. Just ensure it’s toasted well before adding cheese to guarantee that satisfying crunch.