Name: Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Bread Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486618H7M9S
Total time: PT-486618H7M9S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf of French or Italian bread; 1 lb ribeye or flank steak, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (green, red, or yellow); 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 ½ cups provolone or mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 stick butter, softened; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Bread Loaf is an irresistible combination of two fan favorites: cheesesteak and garlic bread. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for serving at parties, game days, or casual dinners. The garlic bread gives a delightful crunch, while the juicy, cheesy filling makes every bite comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks or just love garlic bread, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Bread Loaf

Ingredients

1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
1 lb ribeye steak or flank steak, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (green, red, or yellow)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 ½ cups provolone cheese or mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 stick butter, softened
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise, leaving a small “hinge” at the back so that it opens like a book.
Hollow out the center of each half of the loaf, removing some of the bread to make space for the filling.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the steak. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce and remove from heat.
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the inside of both bread halves.
Spoon the steak and vegetable mixture into the hollowed-out bread halves.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the steak mixture.
Close the bread halves together and wrap the loaf in aluminum foil.
Place the wrapped loaf on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Unwrap the loaf and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size. The total time for preparation and baking is approximately 40-45 minutes.

Variations

Different Cheeses: Swap out provolone or mozzarella with cheddar, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses to customize the flavor.
Add Mushrooms: For a more hearty filling, sauté some mushrooms with the onions and peppers.
Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the steak with plant-based alternatives or more vegetables like zucchini and eggplant for a veggie-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Bread Loaf can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, wrap the loaf in foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual slices in a microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy bread, be sure to hollow out the loaf enough to allow the filling to fit without overwhelming the bread. Also, baking the loaf wrapped in foil helps retain moisture without sogginess.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! You can use any bread you like, such as baguettes, ciabatta, or sourdough. Just make sure it has a sturdy crust to hold the filling.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the loaf the day before. Keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator and bake it the next day.

Can I freeze the Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Bread Loaf?

You can freeze the assembled loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, increasing the baking time by 10-15 minutes.

Can I use ground beef instead of steak?

Yes, you can use ground beef as a substitute. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat before adding it to the bread.

Can I add more vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini can be added to the filling to give it more flavor and texture.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling, or use spicy cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick.

Can I use butter substitutes in the garlic butter mixture?

Yes, you can use margarine, olive oil, or vegan butter as a substitute for regular butter in the garlic butter spread.

How do I get the bread extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, unwrap the loaf during the last few minutes of baking to let the top crisp up. You can also broil the top for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.

Can I serve this as a main course?

Definitely! This Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Bread Loaf is hearty enough to be served as a main dish, especially with a side salad.

Conclusion

This Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Bread Loaf is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines the best elements of garlic bread and cheesesteak. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or main course, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless variations, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.