Imagine the sizzle of thinly sliced ribeye, the sweet aroma of sautéed peppers and onions, all piled onto crisp, buttery garlic bread. This Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe takes two classic favorites and melds them into one unforgettable bite.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly lifts your dinner game without stressing your kitchen time. It’s a perfect blend of savory, melty, and garlicky goodness you’ll want to serve at your next casual get-together or cozy night in.
- Comfort food, elevated: The combination of classic Philly cheesesteak flavors on garlic bread is next-level delicious.
- Quick and straightforward: This recipe comes together in just about 40 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable layering: You can tweak veggies, cheeses, or seasoning to fit your mood and pantry.
- Shareable and fun: Perfect for slicing up and serving to friends or family, making mealtime interactive and inviting.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Every ingredient in this Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe plays a part, bringing together textures and flavors that complement each other beautifully. Keep an eye out for fresh veggies and quality steak for the best outcome.
- Olive oil: Helps caramelize the peppers and onions while adding a subtle richness.
- Red and green bell peppers: Offer sweetness and a pop of color that balances the savory meat.
- Yellow onion: Adds a sweet, slightly tangy note when caramelized—can't skip this one!
- Minced garlic: Used twice to layer that signature punch in both the veggies and the garlic butter.
- Shaved steak or thin ribeye slices: Tender and quick-cooking for that authentic Philly bite.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the steak and veggies perfectly.
- Dried oregano and smoked paprika: Bring earthy and smoky undertones that deepen the flavor profile.
- French bread loaf: The sturdy base that crisps up beautifully under the toppings.
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the bread with garlic for rich, tender toasty crust.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty bite and helps crisp the garlic butter topping.
- Italian seasonings: A fragrant blend that layers complexity without overpowering.
- Provolone cheese slices and shredded mozzarella: Create that irresistible gooey, melty cheese blanket.
- Chopped Italian parsley: Finishing touch for color and fresh vibrancy.
Make It Your Way
I love how flexible this Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe is. You can easily swap out the steak for mushrooms or chicken if you want to switch things up—and trust me, it still tastes fantastic.
- Vegetarian version: Use sautéed mushrooms and peppers with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that smoky depth.
- Spicy kick: Toss in some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when cooking the veggies.
- Different cheese combos: Try swapping mozzarella for cheddar or adding a little blue cheese for extra tang.
- Make it smaller: Turn the loaf into individual portions for parties or lunches on the go.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the peppers, onions, and garlic just right
Start by heating half your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red and green bell peppers and the yellow onion. Cook gently, stirring often, until everything softens and starts to caramelize—about 8-10 minutes. Then stir in your minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Don’t rush this step; those flavors set the tone for the whole dish.
Step 2: Cook the shaved steak with seasoning love
In the same pan, push veggies to one side and add the remaining olive oil. Toss in your shaved steak, seasoning it with kosher salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir frequently and cook fast on medium-high heat until just browned but still juicy—about 4-5 minutes. Combining steak with your softened veggies right at the end brings all those flavors together beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare your garlicky bread base
While your steak and veggies are finishing, slice your French bread loaf in half lengthwise. Mix melted butter with minced garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning, then slather that mixture generously onto the bread cut sides. This garlic butter combo is what makes that crispy outside so insanely delicious.
Step 4: Assemble and bake to melty perfection
Lay the slices of provolone evenly across the garlic buttered bread, then pile on the steak and veggie mixture. Top with shredded mozzarella and bake in a 375°F oven for about 15 minutes or until cheese bubbles and the bread edges turn golden crisp. Keep an eye so it doesn’t burn!
Step 5: Garnish and enjoy!
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped Italian parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Slice, serve warm, and watch everyone dig in happily.
Top Tip
Having made this Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe dozens of times, I’ve learned a few tricks that take it from good to unforgettable. These tips can save you from common pitfalls and keep your flavors balanced.
- Don’t overload the bread: Too much steak or cheese can make it soggy instead of crispy, so keep layer thickness in check.
- Use real sharp provolone: It melts beautifully and has that classic cheesesteak tang.
- Let the garlic butter soak in: After spreading, give the bread a minute or two before adding toppings so it’s super flavorful.
- Watch the oven closely: Cheese melts quickly, so peek in during the last few minutes to catch that perfect golden brown.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe
Garnishes
I’m all about fresh Italian parsley—it brightens the rich cheesesteak flavor and looks beautiful. Sometimes, I'll add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top to bring a little heat, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a surprising tangy contrast.
Side Dishes
This garlic bread is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette. Roasted sweet potato fries or a simple coleslaw also work beautifully for a balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, I sometimes cut this into small finger-sized pieces and serve it on a wooden board with little ramekins of spicy mayo or ketchup. It turns dinner into a lively, shared experience everyone enjoys.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I wrap leftovers tightly in foil and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to enjoy within 2 days for optimal freshness and flavor. The bread can soften a bit, so reheating properly is key.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t my favorite for this recipe because the bread texture tends to degrade, but if you want to prep ahead, freeze unbaked assembled bread wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, uncovered, to revive the crispiness without drying out the steak. Avoid the microwave—it makes the bread mushy and the cheese rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes! While French bread works best because of its sturdy crust and soft center, you can also use Italian bread or even a sturdy baguette. Just make sure the bread holds up well to the toppings and baking process.
The steak should be very thinly shaved or sliced to cook quickly and stay tender. You can ask your butcher for shaved steak specifically for cheesesteaks or slice ribeye thinly yourself with a sharp knife. Partially freezing the meat for about 30 minutes before slicing helps.
Absolutely! You can chop and sauté the veggies and cook the steak a day ahead, then assemble and bake just before serving. The garlic butter spread can also be made in advance and stored covered at room temperature or in the fridge.
Provolone and mozzarella are classic choices here because they melt smoothly and complement the steak’s flavor. You can experiment with sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack, but provolone gives you that authentic Philly vibe. Using a combination of sliced and shredded cheeses ensures even melting and great texture.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe always feels like a celebration in my kitchen. It’s comforting but special, something that brings people together without fuss. I hope you enjoy making it just as much as eating it—and feel proud to share a slice of this rich, cheesy, garlicky goodness with those you care about.
Print
Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a delicious Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread featuring tender shaved steak, sautéed bell peppers and onions, melted provolone and mozzarella cheeses, all layered on crispy, buttery garlic French bread. This hearty appetizer or main course combines classic Philly cheesesteak flavors with garlicky toasted bread for an irresistible treat perfect for gatherings or a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Steak and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 16 oz shaved steak (or thinly sliced ribeye steak)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Bread and Toppings
- 1 loaf French bread
- 3 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat half of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and yellow onion. Sauté until softened and starting to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Add 2 teaspoon minced garlic during the last minute and stir to combine. Remove vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shaved steak. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine Steak and Vegetables: Return the sautéed peppers and onions to the skillet with the steak. Stir well to combine all ingredients and heat through. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Garlic Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise. In a small bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter with 1 teaspoon minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings. Brush this garlic butter mixture evenly on both sides of the bread halves.
- Assemble the Cheesesteak Bread: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, garlic butter side up. Evenly distribute the steak and vegetable mixture over the bread. Layer 8 slices of provolone cheese on top, then sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over everything.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheeses are melted and bubbly and the bread is toasted and golden on the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley over the top. Slice into servings and serve warm.
Notes
- Use thinly sliced ribeye steak if shaved steak is unavailable for a more authentic taste.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the steak while cooking.
- Feel free to customize the cheese blend by adding cheddar or American cheese slices.
- Keep the bread halves close together on the baking sheet to prevent drying out during baking.
- This recipe is perfect for game day snacks or a comforting family dinner.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 416 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 885 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 74 mg
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