Savory Steak Soup

As seen on: Delicious Main Course Recipes

This rich soup turns the beloved Philly sandwich into a warming meal featuring juicy beef, crispy bacon, colorful veggies, all finished with cheese-smothered toast.

emilyscooks.com
Shared By Emily
Last revised on Thu, 01 May 2025 18:02:00 GMT
A steaming bowl of thick soup garnished with bacon bits, beef chunks, diced veggies, and fresh parsley, sitting next to golden cheese toast. Save this
A steaming bowl of thick soup garnished with bacon bits, beef chunks, diced veggies, and fresh parsley, sitting next to golden cheese toast. | emilyscooks.com

I stumbled upon this amazing soup that packs all the taste of my go-to sandwich into a snug bowl. This one-pot Philly cheesesteak soup feels just like wrapping up in a cozy blanket with its juicy beef, crunchy bacon and silky-smooth broth. Whenever I whip it up, wonderful smells drift through the house and everyone rushes to grab a seat.

Beyond Ordinary Soup

Let me share why this dish has become a regular at my house. It's loaded with everything you'd want - hearty savory liquid, soft meat and those wonderfully browned veggies. And that cheese-covered bread on top really makes it stand out. The kids always ask for it when it's cold outside, and I love how quickly it comes together.

Its Unique Appeal

This soup tastes incredible because we start with top-notch stuff. I always pick thin slices of sirloin or ribeye for that real cheesesteak flavor. Mild onions, crunchy peppers and mushrooms create layers of taste. The bacon adds this amazing smoky kick that you can't resist, and don't even get me started about the cheese. Mixing cream with beef broth makes the creamiest base you've ever tried.

Creating Kitchen Wonder

Making this soup feels like you're doing a tasty little number in your kitchen. First get that bacon nice and crisp, then use the same pot to cook your beef strips so they soak up all that goodness. Then toss in those veggies until they turn soft and sweet. A bit of flour and some broth transforms everything into this amazingly rich soup. When you mix it all back with the meat and bacon, you've got total comfort in your pot.

Crowning Glory Topping

We gotta talk about this cheese toast that takes the soup to another level. I grab big chunks of crusty bread, cover them with gooey provolone or mozzarella, and sprinkle with some of that crunchy bacon we saved. They go under the broiler until they turn golden and bubbly. It's basically the world's best grilled cheese for dunking in your soup.

A bowl of creamy soup topped with ground beef, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese, served with a slice of toasted bread on the side. Save this
A bowl of creamy soup topped with ground beef, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese, served with a slice of toasted bread on the side. | emilyscooks.com

Perfect Presentation

I always pour this soup into deep bowls and put a piece of that amazing cheese toast right on top. A few fresh herbs scattered around makes it look fancy. Sometimes I'll throw together a green salad to go with it, but truth be told, this soup is filling enough to stand alone as a meal.

Tasty Leftovers

You know what's awesome? This soup actually tastes better the day after. I pop leftover portions in my storage containers and they stay good for days in the fridge. You can even stick some in the freezer for up to three months. Just warm it slowly on the stove and make new cheese toast when you're ready to eat.

Custom Creations

What I really dig about this dish is how easy it is to switch things up. Sometimes I'll throw in chicken instead of beef or try different cheeses like Swiss or sharp cheddar. My friends who like it hot add some jalapeños and it turns out great. The recipe is super adaptable so you can really play around with what you like.

Kitchen Secrets

Here's a handy trick I've figured out - stick your beef in the freezer about 20 minutes before you cut it. This makes getting those super thin pieces way easier. And don't skimp on fresh stuff - good ingredients really make a difference in straightforward recipes like this one.

Weekday Wonder

I like to cook a huge pot on weekends so we can enjoy it all week long. It's such a timesaver on crazy nights to know this is waiting in the fridge. Just heat up a bowl, make some fresh cheese toast, and dinner's done. My kids actually jump up and down when they hear we're having soup for dinner.

A bowl of creamy soup topped with ground beef, bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley, accompanied by a slice of toasted bread. Save this
A bowl of creamy soup topped with ground beef, bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley, accompanied by a slice of toasted bread. | emilyscooks.com

Surprisingly Nutritious

Though this soup tastes super rich, it's actually got tons of good stuff in it. There's protein from the meat, plenty of vegetables, and when I add a side salad, it's a complete dinner. It's the kind of comfort food you don't need to feel guilty about enjoying.

Group Gathering Star

When friends come over, this soup is my go-to trick. It's a breeze to make in large amounts and everyone loves customizing their own bowl with different toppings. Plus the incredible smell while it's cooking creates the perfect vibe for sitting around the table together.

Thumbs Up From Everyone

This soup has that rare quality of making both grown-ups and kids happy. The familiar tastes remind them of their favorite sandwich but in a cool different way. My kids love dipping their cheesy bread and always want more.

Adaptable For All

For friends who can't have gluten, I just use cornstarch instead of flour and serve it with gluten-free bread for the toast. It turns out just as creamy and delicious. I love having a go-to meal that can work for different food needs without much fuss.

Total Comfort

Something about this soup just makes life feel better. Maybe it's how the cheese swirls into the broth or the way your house smells amazing while it cooks. It's become our favorite way to finish a tough day or celebrate something good.

A bowl of creamy soup topped with cooked ground beef, cheese, bacon bits, and fresh herbs, accompanied by a slice of toasted bread. Save this
A bowl of creamy soup topped with cooked ground beef, cheese, bacon bits, and fresh herbs, accompanied by a slice of toasted bread. | emilyscooks.com

Prep Ahead Brilliance

The flavors in this soup actually improve if it sits overnight. I often make the whole batch a day before company comes. Then I just need to warm it up and fix some fresh cheese toast. It's my favorite no-stress way to feed guests.

Household Hit

Even my fussiest eater asks for this soup specifically. I think it works because the flavors are ones they know but served up differently. And really, who doesn't love dunking cheesy bread into warm soup? It's turned into our special family comfort dish.

Cleanup Winner

Using just one pot for this whole dish means less time washing dishes and more time eating. I'm a big fan of meals that taste amazing without messing up the entire kitchen. It's perfect for nights when I want something tasty but don't want a huge cleanup job.

Fancy Upgrades

Sometimes I jazz things up by adding browned onions or crispy shallots on top. A little drizzle of truffle oil makes it taste like something from a fancy restaurant. These small touches turn an ordinary weeknight into something special.

All-Season Favorite

While most folks think soup works only in winter, this one's so tasty we have it year-round. During summer we'll pair it with cold tea and a simple salad. In autumn we enjoy it with warm apple cider. It's become our go-to comfort food no matter what the weather's doing.

A creamy soup topped with ground beef, crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and garnished with parsley, accompanied by a slice of toasted bread. Save this
A creamy soup topped with ground beef, crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and garnished with parsley, accompanied by a slice of toasted bread. | emilyscooks.com

Common Questions

→ Can I use different meat?

Sure thing, try using ground beef or even sliced deli roast beef if you want it done faster.

→ How can I thicken the soup?

You can smash some of the veggies with your spoon or mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir it in.

→ What bread works best?

Go for something sturdy like a baguette or chunk of sourdough that won't get soggy when you add the cheese on top.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely, toss in some cooked mushrooms or spicy jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor.

→ Can I make this ahead?

The soup tastes even better next day but wait to make your cheesy toast until you're ready to eat.

Hearty Beef Bowl

A rich, velvety spin on the beloved sandwich with juicy beef, crispy bacon, colorful peppers and sautéed onions, paired with cheese-topped bread.

Preparation Time
15 Minutes
Cooking Time
30 Minutes
Overall Time
45 Minutes
Shared By: Emily

Meal Type: Main Courses

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Style: American

Makes: 4 Portions (1 pot)

Special Diet: ~

What You’ll Need

01 items 4 strips bacon, chopped small.
02 items 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or steak, cut into thin strips.
03 items 1 tbsp olive oil (when needed).
04 items 1 small onion, chopped.
05 items 1 green bell pepper, chopped.
06 items 1 red bell pepper, chopped.
07 items 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped.
08 items 3 cups beef broth.
09 items 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half.
10 items 2 tbsp all-purpose flour.
11 items 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce.
12 items 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
13 items Salt and pepper as needed.
14 items For cheesy toast:.
15 items 4 slices hearty bread.
16 items 1 cup grated provolone or mozzarella cheese.
17 items 2 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature.

Steps To Make It

Step 01

Fry bacon till crisp, set aside. Brown beef strips in the bacon drippings, then remove.

Step 02

Toss onion, peppers, and garlic in the same pot until they soften.

Step 03

Sprinkle flour over veggies, pour in broth and add spices. Let bubble for 10 minutes.

Step 04

Pour in cream, drop meat back in pot. Let simmer another 5 minutes.

Step 05

Spread butter on bread, pile with cheese and broil until bubbly.

Extra Notes

  1. Ground beef works well for a faster meal.
  2. Toss in mushrooms or jalapeños for extra flavor.
  3. Mix cornstarch with cold water to make soup thicker.

Essential Tools

  • Big cooking pot.
  • Cookie sheet.
  • Spoon with holes.

Allergen Info

Review ingredients carefully for allergens, and consult a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Dairy stuff (cream, cheese).
  • Wheat products (flour, bread).

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Keep in mind, this data is an estimate and not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
  • Calories: ~
  • Fat Content: ~
  • Total Carbs: ~
  • Protein Content: ~