Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of a Philly Cheesesteak combined with the comforting essence of garlic bread. This recipe for Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is perfect for a casual dinner or a delicious appetizer. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients Overview
Main Ingredients
- Italian Bread: A hearty loaf that forms the base for this delicious dish.
- Garlic and Butter: The combination of garlic and softened butter creates a rich, aromatic spread.
- Ribeye Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye provides a tender, flavorful meat topping.
- Onion and Green Bell Pepper: These veggies add sweetness and a touch of crunch.
- Cheeses: Shredded mozzarella and Parmesan create a gooey, savory topping.
- Seasonings: Kosher salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish add the perfect finishing touches.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Bread
Slice the Bread: Slice the loaf of Italian bread lengthwise into two halves. Place both halves on the lined baking sheet, cut side up.
Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, softened butter, kosher salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Philly Cheesesteak Toppings
Slice the Steak: Thinly slice the ribeye steak into strips. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Onions and Peppers: In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until caramelized (about 10-15 minutes). If using green bell peppers, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking the onions. Transfer the cooked onions and peppers to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Cook the Steak: Using the same skillet, add the ribeye slices over medium heat. Use two spatulas to shred the meat as it cooks. This technique helps tenderize the meat. Continue cooking until the meat is just cooked through (about 2 minutes).
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Assemble the Bread: Divide the cooked steak evenly between the two halves of garlic bread. Top with caramelized onions and peppers. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the meat and veggies.
Bake: Place the assembled bread in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish: Remove the bread from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve: Slice the bread into 8 portions or as desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Valuable Tips for Seamless Cooking
Helpful Tip: Prep Ahead
You can caramelize the onions and peppers in advance and store them in the fridge. This saves time on busy cooking days.
Helpful Tip: Cheese Choice
Feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Helpful Tip: Crispier Bread
For a crispier base, lightly toast the bread halves before adding the garlic butter mixture.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the bread from becoming too hard.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power to avoid overcooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread?
- Answer: Yes, you can use French bread, baguette, or any sturdy loaf that can hold the toppings well.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- Answer: Absolutely! Substitute the ribeye steak with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Can I use pre-cooked steak?
- Answer: Yes, pre-cooked steak can save time. Simply slice it thinly and follow the assembly steps.
What other cheeses work well for this recipe?
- Answer: Provolone, cheddar, or a cheese blend can be great alternatives to mozzarella and Parmesan.
Can I add extra toppings?
- Answer: Feel free to add extras like jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or even some fresh spinach.
How do I prevent the bread from becoming too soggy?
- Answer: Lightly toasting the bread before adding the garlic butter mixture helps prevent sogginess.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
- Answer: Yes, garlic powder can be used. Substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for the minced garlic.
What can I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread?
- Answer: Serve with a side salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use different meat?
- Answer: Yes, thinly sliced chicken or turkey can be used instead of ribeye steak.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
- Answer: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the assembled bread without baking. Thaw and bake as directed.
Can I add hot sauce for extra heat?
- Answer: Definitely! Drizzle hot sauce over the assembled bread before baking for a spicy kick.
How can I make this dish healthier?
- Answer: Use whole wheat bread, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables for a healthier version.
Can I use a different type of oil?
- Answer: Olive oil adds great flavor, but you can use canola or vegetable oil if preferred.
What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
- Answer: Any heavy-bottomed skillet will work just fine for cooking the steak and vegetables.
Can I make this gluten-free?
- Answer: Yes, use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
What if my bread is too large for my baking sheet?
- Answer: Cut the bread into smaller sections to fit your baking sheet.
Can I use frozen onions and peppers?
- Answer: Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
- Answer: Use a low-carb bread alternative and ensure your other ingredients are keto-approved.
Can I add extra garlic?
- Answer: Of course! Adjust the garlic to your preference for a more robust flavor.
What’s the best way to slice the steak thinly?
- Answer: Slightly freeze the steak for about 30 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut thin strips.
Secrets for Culinary Perfection
Secret: High-Quality Ingredients
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a big difference in the flavor of this dish. Opt for fresh garlic, good-quality cheese, and a tender cut of ribeye steak.
Secret: Caramelize Onions Slowly
Caramelizing onions slowly over medium heat brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to the dish.
Secret: Balancing Flavors
A pinch of sugar while caramelizing onions can help balance the flavors if the onions are too sharp.
Enjoy preparing and savoring this delightful Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread—a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will surely become a favorite in your home!
