Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe
If you’re a fan of the iconic Philly cheesesteak, this cheesy bread version is a must-try! Combining tender ribeye steak, sautéed vegetables, melty provolone cheese, and crispy French bread, this recipe brings together all the delicious flavors of a classic cheesesteak in a handheld form. It’s perfect for game day, gatherings, or just a cozy meal at home. Best of all, it’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper, divided
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 4 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 loaf French bread, cut in half lengthwise
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Season the Steak
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, season your thinly sliced ribeye steak with half of the kosher salt, half of the ground black pepper, and a tablespoon of canola oil. The ribeye steak’s marbling will make it tender and flavorful, while the simple seasoning enhances its natural taste.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
Heat a cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Once it’s smoking hot, add the steak and cook it for 2 minutes without stirring or flipping. This searing process locks in the juices and creates a delicious crust on the steak. After 2 minutes, stir in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the savory flavors of the meat. Remove the steak from the pan once it’s browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the sliced green bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, along with the remaining salt and pepper. Cook the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are softened and slightly browned. The butter adds richness to the vegetables, while the caramelization process brings out their natural sweetness, creating the perfect topping for your cheesy bread.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesy Bread
Take your French bread and cut it in half lengthwise. Spread a generous layer of mayonnaise on both halves. The mayonnaise not only adds creaminess but also helps to prevent the bread from becoming soggy during baking.
Next, layer half of the provolone cheese on both halves of the bread. Top the cheese with the cooked steak, followed by the sautéed vegetables. Add the remaining provolone cheese on top, ensuring that every inch is covered with that gooey, melty goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled bread on a baking sheet and transfer it to the oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. The bread will turn crispy and golden on the outside while staying soft on the inside. Once baked, remove from the oven, slice, and serve immediately for a warm, cheesy, savory treat.
Tips for Making the Best Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread
Choose the Right Cut of Meat
The key to this recipe is using ribeye steak because of its tenderness and rich flavor. The high-fat content in ribeye melts as it cooks, creating juicy, flavorful bites. If ribeye isn’t available, you can substitute sirloin or flank steak, but be sure to slice them thinly for optimal texture.
Cook the Steak on High Heat
When cooking the steak, it’s essential to use high heat to sear the meat quickly. This prevents overcooking and ensures the steak remains tender and juicy. A cast iron skillet works best for this because it retains heat well and creates a good sear.
Customize Your Vegetable Mix
While the recipe calls for green bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Jalapeños add a bit of heat, while spinach or cherry tomatoes can give the dish a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Don’t Skip the Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise acts as a barrier between the bread and the filling, preventing the bread from absorbing too much moisture. This keeps the bread crispy, which is crucial for enjoying the perfect cheesy bread experience.
Use Provolone for a Classic Flavor
Provolone cheese is traditional for Philly cheesesteaks because of its mild, slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory steak. However, if you prefer a stronger taste, you can experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or even Swiss cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef Instead of Ribeye?
Yes, while ribeye is preferred for its marbling and flavor, you can use other cuts such as sirloin, flank steak, or even skirt steak. Just make sure to slice them thinly for quick cooking.
What Other Types of Cheese Can I Use?
Provolone is the classic choice for this dish, but if you want to switch things up, you can use mozzarella for extra melty goodness, cheddar for a sharper taste, or Swiss for a nuttier flavor.
Can I Use a Different Bread Instead of French Bread?
French bread works best because of its crispy exterior and soft interior. However, you can substitute it with Italian bread or hoagie rolls, which are also traditional choices for cheesesteaks. Just ensure the bread has a good crust to hold up against the juicy filling.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the components—such as cooking the steak and sautéing the vegetables—ahead of time. When ready to serve, assemble the cheesy bread and bake it fresh to ensure the best texture and flavor.
How Do I Prevent the Bread from Getting Soggy?
The key is to spread mayonnaise on the bread, which acts as a barrier between the moist ingredients and the bread. This prevents the bread from soaking up too much liquid and becoming soggy.
Can I Make a Vegetarian Version?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the steak and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein like seitan or tofu. You can also use vegan cheese to make the dish fully plant-based.
What Should I Serve with Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread?
This cheesy bread pairs well with classic sides like crispy fries, a green salad, or pickles. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a cup of soup or roasted vegetables.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by wrapping individual portions in foil and placing them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat the portions in the oven to maintain the bread’s crisp texture and the cheese’s meltiness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to revive the bread’s crunch and the cheese’s gooey texture.
Can I Customize the Vegetable Mix?
Of course! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your preference. Cherry tomatoes, jalapeños, or spinach can give the dish a new twist. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables’ texture.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread is a game-changer for fans of hearty, savory meals. With its combination of juicy steak, sautéed vegetables, and melted provolone cheese, all on top of crispy French bread, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, as a game-day snack, or at a gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. So why wait? Grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy this cheesy, savory treat!