One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup

### Instructions:

**Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Vegetables**
In a large pot, heat the **olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **sliced steak** to the pot and cook for about **3-4 minutes**, until browned and just cooked through. Once done, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

In the same pot, add the **sliced onion** and **bell pepper**. Sauté for about **5 minutes** until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for another **30 seconds**, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

**Step 2: Add Broth and Cream**
Once the vegetables are cooked, pour in the **beef broth** and **half-and-half** (or heavy cream). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

**Step 3: Add Potatoes (Optional)**
If you’re using **hash browns** or **diced potatoes**, add them to the soup now. This adds extra heartiness to the soup and makes it even more filling. Continue to simmer for about **10-12 minutes** until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. If you’re not using potatoes, skip this step and proceed to the next.

**Step 4: Season and Simmer**
Stir in the **Worcestershire sauce**, **Dijon mustard**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Let the soup simmer for an additional **5 minutes** to allow the flavors to meld together.

**Step 5: Add the Cheese**
Once the soup has thickened slightly and the flavors are well combined, add the **shredded provolone cheese** (and American cheese, if using). Stir until the cheese has melted completely into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy base.

**Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
Once the soup is fully cooked and creamy, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with **fresh parsley** or **chives** for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping, and enjoy!

### Why This One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup Works:
– **Tender Beef**: Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin gives this soup the same rich, beefy flavor as a Philly cheesesteak sandwich. The beef becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers in the broth.
– **Cheesy Goodness**: The creamy, melted provolone cheese gives the soup its signature cheesesteak flavor. If you’re a cheese lover, this is the dish for you!
– **Veggie-filled**: The sautéed **onions** and **peppers** add sweetness and crunch, making the soup extra flavorful and balanced.
– **Hearty and Filling**: The addition of **potatoes** (either hash browns or diced) adds heartiness to the soup, making it a full meal. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch the dish if you’re serving a crowd.

### Tips for Success:
– **Cut the Beef Thinly**: For the best texture, be sure to slice the beef as thinly as possible. You can even freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing to make this easier.
– **Use Your Favorite Cheese**: While provolone is the classic cheese for a Philly cheesesteak, feel free to mix it up! **American cheese** is another great choice, or even a blend of **mozzarella** and **cheddar** for a fun twist.
– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a little heat, you can add sliced **jalapeños** or a pinch of **cayenne pepper** to the soup for an extra kick.
– **Meal Prep**: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after sitting, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.

### Serving Suggestions:
While this soup is hearty on its own, you can pair it with:
– **Crusty Bread**: A slice of **garlic bread** or a warm ** baguette** for dipping is the perfect companion to this creamy, cheesy soup.
– **Salad**: A light, crisp **green salad** with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the soup.
– **Pickles or Chips**: For extra texture and crunch, serve with **pickles** or **crispy potato chips** on the side.

### Conclusion:
**One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup** is a mouthwatering twist on the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. With tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, creamy broth, and melted cheese, it brings all the comfort of the classic sandwich into a warming bowl of soup. Plus, with the added bonus of being made in just one pot, it’s an easy and low-maintenance meal perfect for any day of the week. Serve it at your next family dinner or holiday gathering, and watch as it quickly becomes a new favorite. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and convenience!