Philly Cheesesteak Bombs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings the iconic flavors of Philadelphia street food right to your kitchen. These golden, bite-sized bundles pack all the savory goodness of a traditional cheesesteak—tender beef, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese—into a convenient, poppable form that’s perfect for game day, family gatherings, or just a fun weeknight dinner.
What makes these bombs truly explosive is how they transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the melty, savory filling creates a flavor experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!).
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
- Perfect hand-held appetizer that’s less messy than traditional cheesesteaks
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and add-ins
- Great for meal prep—make ahead and bake when needed
- Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adult gatherings
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
- 1 tube (12 oz) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 cup chopped cooked steak pieces
- 5 oz sharp white cheddar, cut into 10 chunks
- 5 strips thick-cut bacon
Instructions
- Pour oil into a heavy pot until it reaches 2 inches deep. Heat to 375°F using a thermometer to monitor temperature.
- Fry bacon strips in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces.
- Mix together the chopped steak, diced onion, and crumbled bacon in a bowl.
- Flatten each biscuit into a circle. Place a spoonful of steak mixture and one cheese cube in the center. Wrap the dough around the filling and pinch edges to seal completely.
- Carefully drop sealed bombs into hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes until deep golden brown all over. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Tips & Variations
- For an authentic Philly twist, try using Cheez Whiz instead of provolone or American cheese
- Add mushrooms to the vegetable mix for an extra savory dimension
- Use ground beef as a budget-friendly alternative to sliced steak
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for extra texture
- Make mini versions using smaller biscuits for bite-sized party appetizers
- For spicy bombs, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling
Serving Suggestions
These Philly Cheesesteak Bombs are delicious on their own, but they reach new heights when served with dipping options. Try offering small bowls of warm cheese sauce, marinara, or a simple garlic aioli alongside. For a complete game day spread, pair with a fresh green salad or some crispy potato wedges.
If serving as a main dish, consider a side of pickle spears and some crispy onion rings to complete the classic cheesesteak experience in bomb form!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to maintain the crispy exterior
- The bombs are done when golden brown and firm to the touch
- For make-ahead prep, prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator
FAQs
Can I freeze these Philly Cheesesteak Bombs?
Yes! Freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best cut of beef to use?
Ribeye is traditional for Philly cheesesteaks, but sirloin or even deli roast beef works well for convenience.
Can I make these with crescent roll dough instead?
Absolutely! Crescent roll dough makes a flakier bomb. Just be sure to seal the edges well to prevent leaking.
How do I prevent the bombs from opening while baking?
Make sure to pinch the seams firmly and place them seam-side down on the baking sheet. Don’t overfill them, as this can cause the dough to split.
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