When it comes to game day snacks, nothing quite hits the spot like a hearty and flavorful dish that brings everyone together. Enter Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread – a delicious twist on a classic favorite that will have your guests coming back for more. Packed with juicy ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese, all nestled on a bed of garlicky Italian bread, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, fire up your oven and get ready to elevate your game day spread with this irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf Italian bread
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 pound ribeye steak
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- Parsley, chopped for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Begin by slicing the loaf of Italian bread lengthwise into two halves and place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, softened butter, kosher salt, and pepper. Spread this flavorful mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread and set aside.
- Now, let’s prepare the Philly cheesesteak toppings. Slice the ribeye steak into thin strips and season them with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the sliced onions and cook them, stirring frequently, until caramelized, which should take about 10-15 minutes. If you’re using green bell peppers, add them to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking the onions.
- Transfer the caramelized onions (and peppers) to a plate and cover them to keep warm.
- In the same skillet over medium heat, add the seasoned ribeye steak slices and cook them until they are cooked through but not crisp, which should take about 2 minutes. Use two spatulas to shred the meat while it cooks, as this helps tenderize it.
- Divide the cooked steak equally between the two halves of the prepared bread. Top each half with the caramelized onions and green bell peppers, if using, and then generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top, ensuring that all the meat is covered with cheese.
- Bake the assembled Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, garnish the cheesy garlic bread with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.
- Finally, slice the bread into 8 portions or your desired servings and serve immediately, while it’s hot and gooey.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve Hot: Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is still gooey and the bread is warm and crispy. Serve it immediately to fully savor its delicious flavors and textures.
- Garnish Just Before Serving: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the cheesy garlic bread just before serving to add a pop of freshness and color. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a hint of brightness to each bite.
- Customize Portions: Slice the bread into 8 portions as suggested in the recipe, or adjust the size of the slices according to your preference and the number of guests you’re serving. Smaller portions can be ideal for appetizers or snacks, while larger slices are perfect for a heartier meal.
- Pairing Suggestions: Complement the indulgent flavors of Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread with a side of crispy fries, a refreshing salad, or your favorite dipping sauce. Consider serving it alongside a cold beverage like beer or soda to complete the game day experience.
- Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the oven or toaster oven until heated through. Note that the bread may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating, but it will still be delicious.
Variations:
- Chicken Cheesesteak: Swap out the ribeye steak for thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh meat. Follow the same cooking instructions, seasoning the chicken strips with salt and pepper before cooking. You can also add mushrooms or different colored bell peppers for added flavor and color.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, omit the steak entirely and load the garlic bread with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and your favorite vegetarian cheese. You can also add sliced grilled tofu or seitan for extra protein.
- Spicy Kick: Add a kick of heat to your Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread by incorporating sliced jalapeños or banana peppers into the filling. You can also drizzle some sriracha or hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra spicy punch.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of your garlic bread. Try using provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese in place of or in addition to the mozzarella and parmesan for a unique twist.
- Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: Instead of loading the toppings onto garlic bread, hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with the cooked steak, onions, and cheese mixture. Bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted for a delicious and low-carb alternative.
- Breakfast Twist: Transform this recipe into a hearty breakfast dish by adding scrambled eggs to the filling. Cook the eggs until fluffy and then layer them on top of the steak and cheese mixture before baking. Serve with hot sauce or salsa for an extra morning kick.
FAQs :
- Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe? Yes, you can use a different type of bread such as French bread or ciabatta if you prefer. However, Italian bread works best for its soft interior and crispy crust.
- Can I use pre-sliced steak for the Philly Cheesesteak? While pre-sliced steak can be convenient, it’s best to use fresh ribeye steak and slice it thinly yourself for optimal flavor and texture.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before baking. Keep the cooked steak, caramelized onions, and shredded cheese refrigerated until ready to use.
- Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread? While it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled garlic bread, you can freeze the individual components separately. Thaw them in the refrigerator before assembling and baking.
- What can I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even a side of coleslaw. You can also serve it with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch.
With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re watching the big game with friends or simply looking for a comforting and indulgent snack, this recipe is bound to satisfy. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your guests with this mouthwatering dish that takes game day snacking to a whole new level.