Welcome to the ultimate fusion of two beloved comfort foods: the savory, cheesy goodness of a Philly Cheesesteak and the irresistible crunch of buttery garlic bread! This Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread recipe brings together seasoned ground beef, tender peppers, and sweet onions, all blanketed in gooey melted provolone cheese, generously piled onto perfectly toasted, garlicky bread. It’s a meal that promises to satisfy every craving, whether you’re looking for a hearty appetizer or a standalone main course.
Quick and Satisfying: A 30-Minute Dinner Recipe
Life can be hectic, but dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. This incredible Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is designed to be on your table in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Despite its speedy preparation, it delivers a punch of flavor that tastes like it took hours to create. Forget complicated techniques or endless ingredient lists; this recipe focuses on simple steps and delicious results, proving that you don’t need to compromise on taste when time is short.
My culinary journey often leads me back to the iconic flavors of a cheesesteak. There’s something inherently comforting and versatile about the combination of thinly sliced or ground meat, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese. I frequently experiment with these beloved components, transforming them into exciting new dishes. From a hearty Philly Cheesesteak Casserole to flavorful Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers, the possibilities are endless. This particular rendition, served atop garlic bread, elevates the classic sandwich experience, offering a delightful texture contrast and an extra layer of savory garlic goodness that makes it truly unforgettable. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience – a perfect marriage of two American culinary icons.
Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread Recipe
This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a game-changer! Here’s why this Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread will quickly become a family favorite:
- **Unbeatable Flavor Fusion:** It perfectly marries the hearty, savory notes of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the aromatic, crisp texture of homemade garlic bread. Every bite is a delightful explosion of flavor.
- **Effortlessly Quick:** Designed for busy schedules, you can have this mouth-watering dish ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish. Minimal prep, maximum taste!
- **Versatile Serving:** Whether you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, a fun and satisfying lunch, or a comforting main course for dinner, this dish fits every occasion.
- **Customizable Ingredients:** Easily adapt it to your taste preferences. Swap out cheeses, try different types of meat, or experiment with other vegetables to make it truly your own.
- **Simple Ingredients, Big Impact:** You don’t need exotic ingredients to create something extraordinary. This recipe uses common pantry staples to deliver a gourmet experience.
- **Family-Friendly:** Kids and adults alike adore the familiar flavors and exciting presentation of this dish. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new textures and tastes in a comforting format.
Frequently Asked Questions About Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread
Absolutely! While ground beef offers convenience and a delicious texture, a classic Philly cheesesteak traditionally features thinly sliced steak. For an authentic experience, consider using thinly shaved ribeye steak. Many grocery stores also offer pre-shaved steak near the ground beef section, which makes preparation even easier. If using shaved steak, cook it quickly over high heat to achieve a nice sear, then reduce heat and combine with the onions and peppers as directed.
Yes, you can certainly use pre-made frozen garlic bread or Texas Toast for an even quicker preparation. To do so, you’ll need to partially bake the frozen bread first. Follow the package instructions for baking until it’s nearly done – thawed, warm, and the butter has melted, but not yet fully crispy. This ensures the bread is ready to absorb the flavors and won’t be undercooked once the toppings are added. Then, proceed with the recipe as written, adding the cheesesteak mixture and cheese.
Certainly! While provolone is a popular choice for cheesesteaks, feel free to customize with your favorite cheese. For a more traditional Philadelphia experience, try topping your garlic bread with Cheez Whiz for that signature gooey, tangy flavor. Other excellent alternatives include American cheese, which melts beautifully and offers a creamy texture, or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. Experiment to find your perfect cheesy combination!
This loaded garlic bread can be a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with classic American side dishes. Treat it like a hearty sub or sandwich. Serve it alongside crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or crunchy onion rings for a satisfying comfort meal. For a lighter touch, a crisp garden salad, a fresh coleslaw, or even some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli make excellent companions, balancing the richness of the cheesesteak.
Yes, you can definitely do some prep work in advance to save time. You can cook the ground beef, onions, and peppers mixture, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. You can also prepare the garlic butter spread. When you’re ready to serve, simply toast the bread, reheat the meat mixture, assemble, and bake. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping and ensures a quick dinner later.
If you have any delicious leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results when reheating, place the slices on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350° F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly again. An air fryer is also a great option, reheating at 350° F for 3-5 minutes, which helps retain the bread’s crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Essential Ingredients for Your Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread
Crafting the perfect Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few helpful notes:
- Italian Loaf: A sturdy Italian loaf forms the perfect base, providing a good crust and soft interior. French bread is an excellent alternative, or for ultimate convenience, see our FAQ section above on how to use frozen garlic bread.
- Salted Butter: Softened to room temperature, this is essential for a smooth, flavorful garlic spread. If using unsalted butter, simply add a pinch more salt to taste. Need to soften butter quickly? Check out our Quick Tips to Soften Butter Faster.
- Garlic Powder: A key ingredient that infuses both the bread and the meat mixture with irresistible garlic flavor.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is recommended to prevent excessive greasiness. For a more traditional cheesesteak experience, thinly shaved steak (such as ribeye) can be used – refer to our FAQ section for more details.
- Yellow Onion: Sautéed yellow onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the meat filling, a quintessential component of any cheesesteak.
- Green Bell Pepper: Crisp and slightly bitter, green bell peppers are commonly used in cheesesteaks for their classic flavor and vibrant color. Feel free to substitute with other bell pepper colors if preferred, or omit if you’re not a fan.
- Low-Sodium Beef Broth: This adds moisture and rich beefy flavor to the filling while allowing you to control the overall salt content of the dish. A no-sodium option can also be used for stricter dietary needs.
- Ketchup: A touch of ketchup provides a hint of sweetness and tanginess, balancing the savory flavors of the meat and vegetables.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This secret weapon adds a layer of umami and complex savory notes to the meat mixture. While highly recommended, you can skip it if you don’t have it on hand.
- Cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent, cornstarch helps to create a luscious, well-bound sauce for the cheesesteak filling, preventing it from being watery.
- Onion Powder: Enhances the natural onion flavor, adding an extra layer of savory depth to the meat mixture.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together and taste. Adjust to your preference.
- Provolone Cheese: Slices of provolone cheese melt beautifully, creating a creamy, stretchy topping that is characteristic of a great cheesesteak. Explore other cheese options like American cheese or Cheez Whiz, as suggested in our FAQ section, for different flavor profiles.
- Chopped Parsley: (Optional) A sprinkle of fresh or dried parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish to the dish.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread: Step-by-Step
Get ready to whip up this irresistible dish with these easy-to-follow instructions:
- Prepare the Garlic Bread: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Carefully slice your Italian loaf lengthwise, creating two halves. In a small bowl, mix the softened salted butter with 2 teaspoons of garlic powder until well combined. Generously spread this garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut surfaces of both bread halves. Place the prepared loaf onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the bread is lightly toasted and fragrant. This preliminary toast creates a crisp base for your toppings.
- Cook the Cheesesteak Filling: While your garlic bread is toasting in the oven, it’s time to prepare the savory cheesesteak filling. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef, diced yellow onion, and diced green bell pepper to the skillet. Break up the ground beef with a spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 7 minutes. Continue until the beef is no longer pink and the onions and peppers have softened. Drain any excess grease from the skillet if necessary.
- Simmer the Sauce: To the cooked beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet, add the low-sodium beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cornstarch, the remaining 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly. Continue to cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the meat and vegetables beautifully. This creates a rich, savory base for your cheesesteak.
- Assemble the Layers: Carefully remove the lightly toasted garlic bread halves from the oven. Evenly spread half of the prepared meat mixture onto the cut surface of one of the Italian loaf halves. Then, lay 6 slices of provolone cheese directly over the meat mixture on that half. Repeat this process for the second loaf half, layering the remaining half of the meat mixture and then the remaining 6 slices of provolone cheese on top.
- Final Bake and Broil (Optional): Place the assembled Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 6 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt into a wonderfully gooey, bubbly layer. For an extra touch of golden-brown perfection and a slightly crispier cheese topping, you have an optional step: broil on high for 1 to 3 minutes. Keep a very close eye on it during this stage, as cheese can burn quickly under the broiler. Remove from the oven as soon as it reaches your desired golden hue.
- Garnish and Serve: Once removed from the oven, sprinkle the freshly baked Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread with chopped parsley, if desired, for a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor. Let it cool for a minute or two, then slice into individual portions and serve immediately. Enjoy this comforting and incredibly flavorful mashup!
Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread
Achieving cheesesteak perfection is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- **Don’t Overcook the Beef:** Cook the ground beef just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooking can make it dry. If using shaved steak, cook it quickly over high heat to achieve a good sear without making it tough.
- **Toast the Bread Just Right:** The initial toast of the garlic bread is crucial. You want it slightly golden and crisp, but not hard or burnt. This provides a sturdy base that won’t get soggy under the meat mixture.
- **Soften Your Butter:** Ensure your butter is truly at room temperature for the garlic spread. This makes it much easier to spread evenly across the bread, ensuring every bite is flavored.
- **Evenly Distribute Toppings:** For consistent flavor in every slice, make sure to spread both the meat mixture and the cheese evenly over the bread halves.
- **Watch the Broiler Closely:** If you choose to broil for that golden-brown finish, never walk away from the oven. Broilers can toast very quickly, and cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt in seconds.
- **Control Your Salt:** Since beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and provolone cheese all contain sodium, using low-sodium broth and adjusting salt and pepper to taste at the end allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- **Consider Your Bread Choice:** While an Italian loaf is ideal, a sturdy French baguette or even a thick-cut Texas toast can work well. The key is a bread that can hold up to the hearty toppings without falling apart.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- **Meat Alternatives:**
- **Chicken Cheesesteak:** Swap the ground beef for ground chicken or thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter version. Season similarly or add some poultry-specific spices.
- **Mushroom Cheesesteak:** For a vegetarian option, sauté sliced mushrooms (cremini or portobello work well) with the onions and peppers. You might want to add a dash of soy sauce or tamari for extra umami.
- **Cheese Choices:**
- **Cheese Whiz:** For a truly authentic Philly experience, substitute provolone with Cheese Whiz for a super gooey and tangy topping.
- **American Cheese:** Melts incredibly smoothly and offers a mild, creamy flavor that many love on their cheesesteaks.
- **Spicier Cheese:** If you like a kick, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese.
- **Mixed Cheeses:** Combine provolone with a sprinkle of mozzarella or cheddar for a more complex flavor profile and texture.
- **Add-ins and Toppings:**
- **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture, or top with sliced jalapeños before baking. A drizzle of sriracha after baking also works wonders.
- **Extra Veggies:** Sauté sliced mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or finely diced garlic along with the onions and bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- **Sauce Variations:** Experiment with different hot sauces, a touch of BBQ sauce, or even a creamy horseradish sauce drizzled on top after baking.
- **Bread Options:**
- **Ciabatta or Focaccia:** These rustic breads can offer a different texture and flavor profile.
- **Hoagie Rolls:** If you prefer individual portions, assemble the cheesesteak mixture on toasted hoagie rolls instead of a full loaf.
Craving More Cheesesteak and Garlic Bread Recipes?
If you loved this delightful mashup, you’re in for a treat! Explore these other fantastic recipes that celebrate the irresistible flavors of cheesesteak and comforting bread creations:
- Philly Cheesesteak Skillet
- Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini
- Philly Cheesesteak Cups
- Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
- Crock Pot Chicken Cheesesteak
- Philly Cheesesteak Rollups
- Philly Cheesesteak Crescent Ring
- Chicken Cheesesteak Casserole
- Crock Pot Cheesesteak Potato Casserole
- Garlic Cheese Bread
- Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Bread
- Florida Beach Bread
- Garbage Bread
- Texas Toast Pizzas
- Texas Toast French Dips
Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread (+Video)
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Ingredients
- 1 Italian loaf, cut lengthwise
- 4 Tablespoons (1/2 stick) salted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 teaspoons garlic powder (divided use)
- 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
- 12 slices provolone cheese
- 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, can use dried as well)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350° F (175° C).
- To a parchment paper lined baking sheet add 1 Italian loaf, cut lengthwise. Spread 4 Tablespoons (1/2 stick) salted butter, softened to room temperature onto both sides of the loaf. Then sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of garlic powder.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 3 to 5 minutes (or until the loaf is slightly toasted.) While the loaf is baking, proceed with the next steps for the filling.
- To a large skillet add 1 pound lean ground beef, 1 cup diced yellow onion and 1 cup diced green bell pepper. Cook over medium heat for up to 7 minutes so the beef is no longer pink and the onions and peppers are soft. Drain any excess grease.
- To the skillet, add 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 and the remaining 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Mix for 2 to 3 minutes or until the sauce is thicker.
- To each of the toasted loaf halves, evenly add half of the meat mixture.
- Top the meat mixture on each half with 6 slices of provolone cheese.
- Add the remainder of the meat mixture over the first layer of cheese on both halves.
- Top the second layer of meat mixture with the remaining 6 slices of provolone cheese.
- Place the assembled bread back into the oven for 5-6 minutes at 350° F (175° C). Optional: For a golden-brown finish, broil on high for 1-3 minutes after baking, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Be sure to watch the oven closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and top with 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley (optional). Slice and serve immediately.
Video
Notes
- Please refer to our FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- This recipe typically yields between 10-12 servings, depending on how large you cut each slice.
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.