If you love bold flavors and ooey-gooey cheese, the Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. It takes the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich and transforms it into a shareable, irresistible cheesy bread that’s perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or whenever you crave something comforting and packed with savory goodness. This dish balances tender ribeye, caramelized onions, sautéed peppers, and melted provolone all nestled on a crispy, buttery loaf that you will devour bite after bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of texture and flavor. From the tender ribeye steak that delivers juiciness to the caramelized onions adding natural sweetness, and the vibrant bell peppers for a subtle crunch and color, every component plays a crucial role.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, divided: Provides richness and ensures the bread toasts to a golden perfection with amazing flavor.
- 1 ¼ pounds boneless ribeye steak, thinly sliced: The star protein that delivers tender, flavorful bites with every chew.
- Kosher salt, to taste: Enhances all the savory ingredients without overpowering them.
- Ground black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and depth.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Brings a tangy, umami punch that complements the steak beautifully.
- 1 large white onion, thinly sliced: Slowly caramelized to extract natural sweetness and delightful softness.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a fresh, slightly grassy crunch that balances the savory steak.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Offers vibrant color and a mild sweetness that perks up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base that holds the bold flavors together on the bread.
- 1 teaspoon horseradish sauce: Offers a subtle spicy kick that elevates the overall taste complexity.
- 1 loaf French bread (not baguette), cut in half lengthwise: The perfect vehicle—crispy on the outside yet soft and chewy inside to catch every luscious filling.
- 10 ounces shredded provolone cheese: Melts into luscious, gooey goodness that blankets the whole creation.
- Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and beautiful color contrast.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak to Perfection
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a lined baking sheet. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced ribeye steak generously with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Sear until beautifully browned, creating those delicious crispy edges. Pour in Worcestershire sauce and let it reduce, intensifying the steak’s savory flavor. Once done, remove the steak and set it aside to rest while you prepare the rest of the layers.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions Slowly
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and toss in the thinly sliced onions. Keep the heat medium-low so they cook slowly and evenly, stirring occasionally. Patience here pays off because the caramelized onions bring a sweet, rich depth that perfectly balances the salty steak and tangy cheese. Once soft and golden, remove the onions and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Bell Peppers Until Tender
Wipe the skillet clean to avoid any burnt bits altering the flavor and melt the remaining butter. Now add the sliced red and green bell peppers, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook them just long enough to become tender but still retain a slight crunch, bringing vibrant color and fresh flavor to your cheesy bread masterpiece.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Spread and Assemble
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with horseradish sauce, seasoning lightly with salt to taste. This creamy spread adds a spicy tang that ties the whole recipe together. Spread this mixture evenly over both cut sides of the French bread halves. Layer on the seared steak, followed by the caramelized onions and sautéed peppers in even layers. Top everything generously with the shredded provolone cheese to ensure each bite has that ooey-gooey, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Melt and Crisp
Place the assembled bread on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. During this time, the provolone melts luxuriously, melding with the steak and veggies, while the bread crisps up delightfully at the edges, creating the perfect texture contrast that makes this recipe so addictive.
Step 6: Garnish and Slice
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. This not only adds a pop of fresh green but also a subtle herbal brightness to balance the richness. Slice the loaf into 2-inch pieces and get ready to serve warm, inviting bites that everyone will love.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice to garnish your Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe, bringing a layer of freshness that cuts through the richness and makes it look vibrant. If you want to get a little creative, thin slices of pickled jalapeño or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can add a welcome kick and extra dimension.
Side Dishes
This cheesy bread pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad or coleslaw to add crunch and lighten the meal. For something heartier, serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries or a bowl of tomato soup, which complements the provolone and steak perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform this recipe into individual sliders by cutting smaller bread pieces or even serve it as an appetizer by slicing into bite-sized squares. You can also layer any leftover Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces like spicy mustard, garlic aioli, or ranch, making for a perfect shareable snack when friends come over.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe, simply wrap any leftovers well in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 3 days, making it a great option for a quick snack or lunch without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
To enjoy this tasty cheesy bread later, you can freeze it tightly wrapped in foil or placed in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat for a comforting treat that tastes almost as good as fresh.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftovers is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to restore the crispy crust and melt the cheese just right. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional and melts beautifully, you can also use mozzarella, American cheese, or even a mix to suit your taste preferences.
Is ribeye steak necessary or can I substitute another cut?
Ribeye is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, but thinly sliced sirloin or even flank steak can work well if ribeye is unavailable.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Add some chopped jalapeños to the peppers or include spicy horseradish sauce in the mayo spread to ramp up the heat.
Do I have to use French bread?
French bread works best due to its sturdy crust and chewy interior, but a similar rustic loaf like Italian bread would also be a great choice.
Can this dish be made ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble everything the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake fresh before serving for the best cheesy melt and crispy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe is one of those crave-worthy dishes that bring people together, bursting with layered flavors and textures that everyone will adore. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe box. Give it a try and enjoy every melty, savory bite!
Print
Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 14 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread recipe combines tender, thinly sliced ribeye steak with caramelized onions and sautéed bell peppers layered on French bread, topped with a creamy horseradish mayonnaise and melted provolone cheese. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or main dish, this easy-to-make baked cheesy bread brings classic Philly cheesesteak flavors in a delightful handheld form.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 ¼ pounds boneless ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
Dairy and Bread
- ½ cup unsalted butter, divided
- 10 ounces shredded provolone cheese
- 1 loaf French bread (not baguette), cut in half lengthwise
Condiments and Seasonings
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon horseradish sauce
- Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the steak: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Add Worcestershire sauce and continue cooking until the liquid reduces. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Caramelize the onions: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally until caramelized and golden brown. Remove the onions and set aside with the steak.
- Sauté the bell peppers: Wipe the skillet clean and melt the remaining butter. Add the sliced green and red bell peppers, season with salt and pepper, and cook until softened but still slightly crisp. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the bread base: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and horseradish sauce, seasoning with salt to taste. Spread this mixture evenly on the cut sides of the French bread halves. Then layer the cooked steak, caramelized onions, and sautéed peppers on top.
- Add cheese and bake: Top the assembled layers with shredded provolone cheese. Place the prepared bread halves on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Slice the cheesy bread into 2-inch pieces and serve warm.
Notes
- For best results, use a high-quality ribeye steak and ensure it is sliced very thin to mimic authentic Philly cheesesteak texture.
- Caramelizing onions properly adds a sweet depth of flavor; don’t rush this step.
- You can customize the cheese to your preference; provolone is traditional, but mozzarella or American cheese can work.
- This dish is best served fresh and warm but can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mayonnaise spread.
