Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Onions

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, allowing the onions to soften and become golden. The process takes around 15-20 minutes on medium heat. Be patient during this step because caramelization brings out the sweetness and depth of flavor essential for the sandwich.

To accelerate caramelization without burning, occasionally stir and lower the heat if the onions start to brown too quickly. Remove the onions from heat once they’re deeply golden with a slight jam-like consistency and set them aside to keep warm. Season lightly with black pepper if desired.

---

Step 2: Cook the Sirloin Beef

In the same skillet or a clean one, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced sirloin beef in a single layer if possible, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. The key to tender cheesesteak meat is slicing the beef as thinly as possible—this helps it cook evenly and quickly.

Cook the beef for around 3-4 minutes, stirring and breaking it apart gently with a spatula. You want the beef to be fully cooked but still juicy and tender, without overcooking into dryness. Once cooked through, remove the beef from the pan to a plate, leaving any flavorful juices in the pan.

---

Step 3: Combine Beef with Caramelized Onions

Return the caramelized onions to the pan with the cooked beef. Toss them together gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld on low heat for 2-3 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste during this step.

---

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Lay slices of your preferred cheese over the beef and onion mixture in the pan. American cheese works wonderfully because it melts evenly and has a creamy texture that complements the savory beef. Cover the pan with a lid to trap heat and melt the cheese for about 2 minutes until it’s fully gooey and melted into the beef mixture.

---

Step 5: Toast the Hoagie Rolls

While the cheese melts, prepare the hoagie rolls. Split the rolls open and toast them lightly either in a toaster oven or on a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Toasting helps the rolls hold up to the juicy filling without becoming soggy and adds a pleasant crunch.

---

Step 6: Assemble the Cheesesteak Sandwiches

Scoop generous portions of the cheesy beef and caramelized onion mixture into the toasted hoagie rolls. Press the sandwich slightly and serve immediately while hot. The result is a perfect balance of tender, flavorful meat, sweet onions, melty cheese, and crisp bread.