Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread

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Introduction

Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread combines the beloved flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the comforting appeal of garlic bread. This fusion dish features thinly sliced beef steak, sautéed bell peppers and onions, all topped with melted provolone cheese on a crispy French bread base. It’s a hearty, savory treat perfect for a quick dinner, game day snack, or a party appetizer.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe takes the essential elements of a Philly cheesesteak and layers them on garlic bread, resulting in a deliciously cheesy, garlicky, and beefy delight. It’s simple to prepare and delivers a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.

History and Origin

The Philly cheesesteak, originating from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a popular American sandwich known for its thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese, traditionally served in a hoagie roll. The addition of garlic bread to this classic dish is a modern twist, blending two comfort foods into one irresistible meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf of French bread
  • 1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (such as ribeye or sirloin)
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prep:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Slice the French bread in half horizontally and place both halves on the prepared baking sheet.

Cooking:

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the thinly sliced beef steak to the skillet and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Assembly:

  1. Arrange the cooked steak slices evenly over the bottom halves of the French bread.
  2. Top the steak with the cooked bell pepper and onion mixture.
  3. Place the slices of provolone cheese over the bell pepper and onion mixture, covering the entire surface.

Baking:

  1. Place the assembled garlic bread on the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is toasted.
  2. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.

Serving:

  1. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish.
  2. Slice the Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread into individual portions and serve warm.

Serving, Pairing, and Serving Suggestions

Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is best served warm and can be paired with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Complement this dish with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A cold beverage, such as iced tea or a soda, pairs well with the hearty flavors of the cheesesteak garlic bread.

Variations of the Recipe

Chicken Cheesesteak Garlic Bread:

Replace the beef steak with thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter version.

Spicy Cheesesteak Garlic Bread:

Add sliced jalapeños to the bell pepper and onion mixture for an extra kick of heat.

Mushroom Cheesesteak Garlic Bread:

Include sautéed mushrooms with the bell pepper and onion mixture for added umami flavor.

Health Benefits

While this dish is indulgent, it can be made slightly healthier by using whole-grain French bread and reducing the amount of cheese. Including a generous portion of bell peppers and onions provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Notes

  • For the best results, use a good quality, crusty French bread that will hold up to the toppings without becoming soggy.
  • Be sure to thinly slice the beef steak against the grain for tender, easy-to-bite pieces.
  • You can use a variety of cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar if provolone is not available.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef, pepper, and onion mixture ahead of time. Assemble and bake just before serving.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use ciabatta, baguette, or any sturdy loaf that can support the toppings.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I freeze the Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen at 375°F until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is a delectable and satisfying dish that brings together the best elements of two classic comfort foods. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive appetizer for gatherings. With its savory beef, flavorful vegetables, and melted cheese on a crispy garlic bread base, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors and textures with each bite!

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