A Philly cheesesteak is a beloved sandwich, packed with thinly sliced steak, melty cheese, and often caramelized onions and peppers, all nestled in a soft roll. Reheating one without turning it soggy or drying it out can be a challenge, but an air fryer makes it quick and effective, delivering a crispy exterior and warm, flavorful interior.
Method 1: Reheating Separately for Best Texture
You can Reheat Cheesesteak In The Air Fryer and enjoy it just as much as the first time around! The air fryer uses circulating hot air to cook food, which means that your sandwich will be evenly heated on all sides. This is the best way to reheat a cheesesteak because it will prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery and the meat from drying out. Plus, it only takes a few minutes in the air fryer, so you can have your sandwich ready in no time! All you’ll need is a leftover Philly cheesesteak, a piece of foil, and your favorite air fryer, and you’re ready to go!
1️⃣ Preheat your air fryer: While preparing the cheesesteak, turn your air fryer to 350F for 3-5 minutes.
2️⃣ Remove the meat and cheese: Take a strong piece of aluminum foil and form a rim on the outside similar to a rimmed baking sheet. Remove the meat and cheese from the sandwich and place it on the foil. Leave the bread off for now.
3️⃣ Air fry the cheesesteak meat: Place the foil with the meat and cheese in the air fryer and cook for 3-5 minutes or until the meat is warmed through and the cheese is melted.
4️⃣ Toast the bun: Add the bun with the inside facing up to the air fryer basket and toast it at 350F for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is warm and toasted.
5️⃣ Assemble the cheesesteak: Place the meat and cheese back inside the toasted bun and enjoy while hot!
While you can heat the whole sandwich at once, it will cook more evenly if you reheat the meat and cheese separately from the bun. For leftovers to taste their best, start with proper storage! To store a leftover cheesesteak, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, follow the instructions above. When handling food in the air fryer, always use heat-safe tongs as the food will be hot. If you don’t have heat-safe tongs, you can use a regular spatula. Just be careful not to touch the hot air fryer basket with your bare hands. If you want to add a little extra flavor to your reheated sandwich, try brushing the outside of the bread with a little olive oil or butter before toasting.
Method 2: Reheating the Whole Sandwich
Air fryers are excellent for adding a bit of crunch to your cheesesteak, keeping the bread firm and cheese melty. Set the air fryer to medium heat (around 300°F or 150°C). Place the cheesesteak in the air fryer basket, ensuring it isn’t overcrowded. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown. This method offers quick results with great texture, giving the sandwich a satisfying crunch while keeping the inside warm and flavorful.
Avoid these common missteps to ensure your cheesesteak stays tasty and safe: Reheating Multiple Times: Repeated reheating can affect both the flavor and food safety. Overcrowding: Especially in air fryers, overcrowding can lead to uneven heating and a soggy texture. Neglecting Food Safety: Use a food thermometer to make sure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature.
Method 3: Reheating with Vegetables
It’s best to separate the onions and peppers from the sandwich when reheating. Place them on a baking sheet and reheat at 300°F for 5-7 minutes before adding back to the cheesesteak. This prevents them from getting soggy. Preheat to 300°F. Place the cheesesteak in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes until hot and crispy. The air fryer will reheat the bread nicely. After reheating the vegetables separately, reassemble the sandwich with the warmed meat, cheese, and toasted bun for a fresh-tasting result.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd: Air fryers work best when air can circulate freely. Reheat sandwiches in batches if necessary.
- Adjust Time for Size: A hefty sub might need a bit more time, while a smaller sandwich could do with less.
- Check Midway: Halfway through, give the sandwich a quick check to ensure it’s reheating evenly.
- Storage: Store leftovers in aluminum foil or an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. For freezing, wrap each cheesesteak in aluminum foil, place in a freezer bag, and store for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 6-8 minutes.
- Enhance Flavor: A light sprinkle of salt, pepper, or your favorite seasoning can refresh the taste before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reheat a cheesesteak wrapped in foil in the air fryer?
Yes, you can, but it may take slightly longer, and the bread won’t get as crispy. If you prefer a softer roll, foil is a good option; otherwise, skip it for a crunchier texture.
How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Place a parchment paper liner with holes in the basket to allow air circulation while preventing cheese from sticking. Alternatively, use foil under the meat and cheese, as described in Method 1.
Can I reheat a frozen cheesesteak in the air fryer?
Absolutely. Unwrap the cheesesteak from any foil, place it in the air fryer at 350°F, and heat for 6-8 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure it doesn’t dry out. For a softer roll, wrap in foil before reheating.
What’s the best temperature to reheat a cheesesteak?
Temperatures between 300°F and 350°F work best. Lower temperatures (around 300°F) ensure even heating, while 350°F crisps the bread faster. Adjust based on your air fryer and sandwich size.
How do I know when the cheesesteak is fully reheated?
Check that the cheese is melted and the meat is warmed through. For safety, use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 110°F. If it’s not hot enough, add 1-2 minutes.
With the right technique, your reheated Philly cheesesteak can be nearly as delicious as when it was fresh. The air fryer’s ability to crisp the bread and melt the cheese while keeping the meat juicy makes it an ideal tool for reviving this iconic sandwich. Experiment with these methods to find your perfect balance of crunch and flavor, and enjoy every bite!