French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread

French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread combines the savory decadence of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the buttery, garlicky goodness of French bread. Imagine a golden, crispy loaf loaded with tender slices of seasoned beef, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, all topped with gooey, melted cheese. This dish is not only a showstopper for parties and gatherings but also an indulgent dinner or game-day snack that’s guaranteed to impress. With its bold flavors and satisfying textures, this recipe is the perfect fusion of two iconic dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread is a one-pan wonder that delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your home. It’s quick to make, customizable to suit various tastes, and combines hearty, satisfying flavors with a buttery, garlicky crunch. Whether you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks, garlic bread, or both, this recipe is a dream come true. It’s also perfect for feeding a crowd, as the loaded bread can easily be sliced into shareable portions.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 400
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Garlic Bread:

• 1 large French bread loaf, halved lengthwise
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Pinch of salt

For the Cheesesteak Filling:

• 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak (or deli-style roast beef for a shortcut)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Topping:

• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese (or a combination of provolone and mozzarella)

Optional Garnishes:

• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh parsley or chives

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the French bread.
4. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, buttered side up. Bake for 5-7 minutes until lightly toasted. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Cheesesteak Filling

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the steak and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the onions and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and stir in the Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread

1. Evenly distribute the cheesesteak filling over the toasted garlic bread halves.
2. Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese generously over the top.
3. Return the assembled bread to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.
3. Slice into portions and serve immediately.

Ingredient Background

Ribeye Steak:

Ribeye steak is the traditional cut for Philly cheesesteaks due to its tenderness and rich flavor. If ribeye is unavailable, sirloin or flank steak works well. Deli-style roast beef can also be used for convenience.

French Bread:

French bread provides a sturdy base for the toppings while still being light and airy. Its crisp crust and soft interior create the perfect texture contrast for this dish.

Provolone Cheese:

Provolone is the classic cheese for Philly cheesesteaks, offering a mild, creamy flavor that complements the seasoned beef. Mozzarella or a cheese blend can be used for a stretchier, gooier topping.

Technique Tips

1. Freeze the Steak Slightly: Place the steak in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut into thin strips.
2. Toast the Bread: Pre-toasting the garlic bread prevents it from becoming soggy once the filling is added.
3. Even Cheese Distribution: Spread the cheese evenly over the filling to ensure every bite is perfectly cheesy.
4. Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is hot and gooey.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Open-Faced Sandwiches: Serve the cheesesteak filling on individual slices of toasted garlic bread for a knife-and-fork version.
2. Stuffed Bread Loaf: Hollow out the French bread, fill it with the cheesesteak mixture, top with cheese, and bake for a stuffed bread experience.
3. Cheesesteak Sliders: Use small dinner rolls or slider buns for a mini, party-friendly version of this dish.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly baked French bread and high-quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overload the Bread: Overloading can make the bread soggy or difficult to eat. Stick to an even layer of filling.
• Customize the Veggies: Add mushrooms, jalapeños, or banana peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Cheesesteak Bread: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
2. Chicken Philly Bread: Replace the ribeye steak with thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter version.
3. Vegetarian Philly Bread: Use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant as the main filling for a meat-free alternative.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezing: Assemble the bread without baking and freeze it tightly wrapped in plastic and foil. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole-Grain Bread: Switching to whole-grain French bread not only adds a hearty flavor but also boosts the fiber and nutrient content of this dish. Whole grains provide longer-lasting energy and a nuttier texture, making them a perfect complement to the savory fillings.

• Lean Protein: For a lighter version, opt for lean sirloin, ground turkey, or even grilled chicken breast instead of ribeye steak. These alternatives reduce the overall fat content while maintaining the dish’s delicious flavors and protein boost. For a plant-based twist, try crumbled tofu or tempeh seasoned with the same spices for a similar texture and taste.
• Low-Fat Cheese: Substitute regular provolone or mozzarella with their reduced-fat counterparts to cut down on calories and saturated fat without sacrificing the gooey, cheesy experience. A sprinkling of nutritional yeast can also enhance the cheesy flavor while adding extra B vitamins and protein.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Game-Day Spread: Pair with potato wedges, coleslaw, and your favorite dipping sauces for a hearty game-day feast.
2. Casual Party Appetizer: Slice the bread into small portions and serve as a finger food appetizer.
3. Family Dinner: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Special Equipment

1. Large Skillet: A high-quality skillet is crucial for evenly cooking the steak and vegetables. A cast-iron skillet works particularly well for achieving that perfect sear on the beef, enhancing the flavor of the dish.
2. Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for toasting the garlic bread to perfection and assembling the final dish. Line it with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup, especially when dealing with melted cheese.
3. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise slicing of both the bread and steak, which is key to achieving even cooking and an appealing presentation. A serrated knife is especially useful for cutting through the crusty bread without squishing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-sliced deli beef for this recipe?

Yes, pre-sliced deli roast beef is a great shortcut and works well when you’re short on time.

2. What other cheeses can I use?

Mozzarella, cheddar, Swiss, or a cheese blend all work well for this recipe. Each adds a unique flavor profile.

3. How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Pre-toasting the garlic bread and avoiding excess liquid in the filling helps prevent sogginess.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the bread just before serving.

5. Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the steak with a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.

6. How can I add more spice?

Incorporate sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a spicy cheese like pepper jack.

7. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, ciabatta, sourdough, or even baguettes can be used instead of French bread.

8. How do I slice the steak thinly?

Freezing the steak for 15-20 minutes makes it easier to slice thinly. Use a sharp knife for best results.

Conclusion

French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread is the ultimate fusion of bold flavors and comforting textures. The buttery garlic bread, savory cheesesteak filling, and melted cheese create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether served as a dinner, party centerpiece, or game-day snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Ready to indulge in the perfect bite? Let’s get cooking!

Print