If you love the bold, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want to take your sandwich game to an exciting new level, then this Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread (+Video) Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the perfect marriage of garlicky, buttery bread enveloping tender beef, sweet peppers, and gooey provolone cheese that melts in your mouth. It’s a spectacular twist on a comfort food favorite that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging in for a satisfying weeknight treat. Trust me, once you try this recipe, Philly cheesesteak garlic bread will become a new star in your kitchen repertoire!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread (+Video) Recipe is surprisingly simple because the ingredients are all thoughtfully selected to balance flavor and texture perfectly. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s bringing richness, adding savoriness, or layering delightful textures that make every bite memorable.
- Italian loaf: The sturdy base that holds all your toppings while giving you the perfect garlic bread crunch.
- Salted butter: Adds buttery richness and helps the garlic powder stick to the bread for that classic flavor.
- Garlic powder: Divided use here enhances the bread with a deep, aromatic punch and flavors the meat mixture.
- Lean ground beef: The hearty protein that creates that unmistakable Philly cheesesteak flavor.
- Diced yellow onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and softness that melds seamlessly with the beef.
- Diced green bell pepper: Adds color, crunch, and a slight peppery freshness to balance the richness.
- Low-sodium beef broth: Forms a flavorful base for the savory sauce that keeps everything juicy.
- Ketchup: A touch of sweetness and acidity to brighten the beef mixture.
- Worcestershire sauce: Elevates umami richness and adds subtle depth to the filling.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce perfectly without making it gummy or heavy.
- Onion powder: Compliments the fresh onions with a round, savory note.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together beautifully.
- Provolone cheese slices: Melts into gooey perfection, layering richness throughout the bread.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color for presentation.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread (+Video) Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Toast the Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. Take your Italian loaf and carefully cut it lengthwise to create two even halves. Spread the softened butter generously on both sides of the loaf, then sprinkle 2 teaspoons of garlic powder evenly on top. Pop it into the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until it’s slightly toasted and fragrant. This step ensures the bread soaks up garlic butter flavor and gets just the right crunch as the base for your toppings.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Veggies
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the lean ground beef, diced yellow onion, and diced green bell pepper. Cook for about 7 minutes until the beef is no longer pink and the veggies soften. This creates the hearty and flavorful filling that will power up your garlic bread.
Step 3: Make the Savory Sauce
To the skillet, add beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cornstarch, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and an extra teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens beautifully. This sauce links together all those delicious components, keeping each bite juicy and full of flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Garlic Bread
Lay each toasted bread half on your baking sheet. Spread half of the meat mixture over one half of the bread, then layer 6 slices of provolone cheese on top. Add the remaining meat mixture and cover with the last 6 slices of provolone. This double layer of cheese and meat inside garlic bread is pure indulgence waiting to happen.
Step 5: Melt and Brown the Cheese
Return the assembled bread to the oven and bake for 5-6 minutes at 350° F, just long enough for the cheese to melt luxuriously. For an extra golden, bubbly finish, broil on high for 1 to 3 minutes—making sure to watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like. The parsley adds a lovely brightness and makes it irresistible to serve.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread (+Video) Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate the Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread (+Video) Recipe even further. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh basil adds perfect color contrast and fresh herbal notes that wake up the rich meat and cheese. If you like a bit of heat, a few crushed red pepper flakes sprinkled on top add a surprising kick.
Side Dishes
This garlic bread is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad, some oven-roasted vegetables, or even a light tomato soup. These lighter options balance the indulgence of the cheesy garlic bread perfectly without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread into individual servings and serve on a platter with dipping sauces like spicy mayo or creamy ranch. It’s also fantastic wrapped in parchment for picnics or casual gatherings. The layers of melted cheese and meat peek through beautifully, making it visually irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though that might be ambitious!), wrap the garlic bread tightly in aluminum foil or store in an airtight container. Kept in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for a quick reheat and snack or mini meal.
Freezing
This recipe also freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Freeze fully assembled (but before baking) or after baking once cooled. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 2 months, so you have an easy weeknight dinner waiting when you need it.
Reheating
To reheat, if frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm in a preheated oven at 350° F until the bread is heated through and the cheese is melty again—about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery. Enjoy it almost as fresh as the first time!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While an Italian loaf works best to hold all the toppings, sturdy breads like French baguette or a hoagie roll can be delicious substitutes. Just make sure the bread is thick enough to support the layers without getting soggy.
Can I use other cheeses instead of provolone?
Yes, provolone is traditional and melts beautifully, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for extra stretchiness or Swiss cheese for a nuttier flavor. Cheddar or Monterey Jack are also tasty options that melt well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for finely chopped mushrooms or plant-based ground meat alternatives. The savory sauce and melty cheese will keep it just as satisfying.
How spicy is this Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread?
As written, it’s mild and focused on rich, savory flavors. If you love a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture is an easy way to spice things up.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and veggie filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply assemble the bread and bake as directed for a quick, fresh dinner.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly satisfying about biting into the warm, garlicky crust of the Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread (+Video) Recipe as the melted provolone and rich beef filling greet your taste buds. It’s a twist on a classic that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a hearty treat for yourself, this recipe promises to deliver big on flavor and smiles. So, grab your ingredients, follow along with the video, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite take on Philly cheesesteak!
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Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread (+Video) Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich with crispy, buttery garlic bread for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or meal. The recipe features seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, savory sauce, provolone cheese layers, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley all baked on a toasted Italian loaf.
Ingredients
Bread & Butter
- 1 Italian loaf, cut lengthwise
- 4 Tablespoons (1/2 stick) salted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 teaspoons garlic powder (divided use)
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 2 Tablespoons ketchup
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 12 slices provolone cheese
- 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, can use dried as well)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350° F to preheat. This will ensure the bread toasts properly and the final bake melts the cheese perfectly.
- Prepare the bread: Place the Italian loaf cut lengthwise on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the softened salted butter evenly on both sides of the loaf, then sprinkle 2 teaspoons of garlic powder over the buttered surfaces for a flavorful garlic crust.
- Toast the bread: Bake the buttered loaf in the preheated oven for 3 to 5 minutes or until slightly toasted. This step helps create a crispy base that holds all the toppings well.
- Cook the beef and veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced yellow onion, and diced green bell pepper for approximately 7 minutes until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Make the sauce: Add the beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cornstarch, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the skillet. Stir and cook the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat and vegetables.
- Assemble the first layer: Spoon half of the meat mixture evenly onto one half of the toasted bread loaf.
- Add the first cheese layer: Place 6 slices of provolone cheese over the meat mixture on the loaf half.
- Layer the remaining meat: Spread the remaining half of the meat mixture over the provolone cheese layer for a hearty filling.
- Add the final cheese layer: Top the assembled meat with the remaining 6 slices of provolone cheese, covering the entire surface.
- Bake to melt and meld: Return the assembled loaf halves to the oven and bake at 350° F for 5 to 6 minutes until the cheese melts. For a golden brown top, optionally broil on high for 1 to 3 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Finish and garnish: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish before serving.
Notes
- The garlic powder is divided to season both the buttered bread and the meat sauce for layered flavor.
- Using low-sodium beef broth helps control saltiness while adding richness.
- Optional parsley garnish adds freshness and color but can be omitted.
- Broiling step is optional; watch carefully as it can burn quickly.
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or plant-based meat for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
