Philly Cheesesteak is a bold fusion sandwich that brings together two iconic American food traditions. Tender, smoky burnt ends—slow-cooked beef cubes coated in rich barbecue sauce—are piled onto a soft hoagie roll and finished with gooey melted cheese. The result is a hearty, flavour-packed sandwich that delivers barbecue depth with classic cheesesteak comfort.
Philly Cheesesteak:
Perfect for game days, cookouts, or indulgent weeknight dinners, this sandwich is all about big flavours and satisfying textures. The sweetness and smoke of Kansas City–style burnt ends pair beautifully with sautéed onions and peppers, while the melted cheese ties everything together into a messy, crave-worthy bite.
History:
Burnt ends originated in Kansas City barbecue joints as flavourful trimmings from smoked brisket, prized for their caramelized exterior and tender interior. The Philly cheesesteak, on the other hand, traces back to early 20th-century Philadelphia as a simple steak-and-cheese sandwich. This modern mashup blends Midwest barbecue culture with East Coast sandwich tradition, creating a new classic for lovers of bold American flavours.
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Kansas City–Style “Burnt Ends” Philly Cheesesteak
Ingredients
- 2 cups Kansas City–style burnt ends (pre-cooked)
- 2 hoagie or sub rolls
- 1 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 small bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup shredded provolone, mozzarella, or American cheese
- 2 tbsp Kansas City BBQ sauce (optional, for extra glaze)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onions (and peppers if using) until soft and lightly caramelized.
- Add burnt ends to the skillet and warm through, adding BBQ sauce if desired.
- Split hoagie rolls and lightly toast them.
- Pile the hot burnt ends mixture onto each roll.
- Top generously with cheese.
- Cover skillet briefly or broil sandwiches until cheese melts.
Notes
- Authentic burnt ends bring the best flavour.
- Cheese choice affects richness and melt.
- BBQ sauce is optional but enhances KC style.
- Best enjoyed immediately.
- Messy eating is part of the experience.
Tips for Philly Cheesesteak:
- Use smoked brisket if burnt ends aren’t available.
- Toast rolls to prevent sogginess.
- Add pickled jalapeños for contrast.
- Mix cheeses for better melt.
- Serve with fries or coleslaw.
FAQ’s for Philly Cheesesteak:
Q1: Can I make this without burnt ends?
Yes, chopped smoked brisket or steak works well.
Q2: What cheese is best?
Provolone or American are classic melt-friendly options.
Q3: Is this sandwich very spicy?
No, unless spicy BBQ sauce is used.
Q4: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
The meat can be preheated, but assemble just before serving.
Q5: Is this a traditional Philly cheesesteak?
No, it’s a fusion inspired by both cuisines.
Conclusion:
Kansas City–Style “Burnt Ends” Philly Cheesesteak is the ultimate fusion sandwich for meat lovers. Combining smoky barbecue beef with classic cheesesteak elements, it delivers bold flavor, rich texture, and serious comfort in every bite. Perfect when you want something indulgent and unforgettable.