Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Bread Loaf

This cheesesteak-stuffed garlic bread loaf is the kind of comfort food that makes people gather at the kitchen counter before it even hits the table. The first time I made this recipe for a movie night, I watched everyone pull off gooey, garlicky wedges and reach for seconds before the credits rolled.

The last time I served this my family could not get enough of that crispy cheesy edge on every slice It has become my potluck go-to and never leaves leftovers

Ingredients

• Large loaf of Italian bread: Choose a sturdy loaf so it holds the filling well and gets crispy on the edges
• Thinly sliced beef ribeye or sirloin: is best for juicy tender bites Buy from a butcher if possible or slice partially frozen steak yourself for best results
• Bell peppers: Mixed colors make it more vibrant Choose firm peppers without blemishes for a sweet crunch
• Onions: Sweet yellow or white onions add a classic cheesesteak touch Look for shiny skins and a strong onion aroma
• Shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and brings rich flavor Look for freshly shredded cheese for best melt
• Garlic butter: Use garlic butter for bold flavor or mix softened butter with minced fresh garlic for easy homemade version
• Salt and pepper: Accent the beef and vegetables Use fresh ground black pepper and kosher salt for best flavor
• Fresh parsley: Adds a hint of freshness at the end Buy bright green leaves with no wilting for best garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius so it reaches the right temperature for baking later

Sauté the Peppers and Onions:

Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt your garlic butter Once melted add sliced onions and bell peppers Stir and cook for four to five minutes until they are softening and start to look glossy This step creates a sweet savory base for your filling

Cook the Beef:

Add your thinly sliced beef to the skillet with the vegetables Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top Cook stirring often until the beef loses its pink color and has crisp edges Remove from heat to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat

Prepare the Bread:

Place your Italian loaf on a cutting board Slice it lengthwise from end to end as you would for a big sandwich With your hands or a spoon gently remove some of the bread from both halves to make room for your hearty filling

Stuff and Layer:

Spread the beef pepper and onion mixture into the hollowed center of the bottom bread half Press gently to ensure an even layer Pile shredded provolone cheese generously over top covering edge to edge

Bake to Perfection:

Put the stuffed loaf on a baking sheet Transfer to the oven and bake fifteen to twenty minutes The cheese should be bubbling and the bread edges golden and crisp

Finish and Serve:

Let the loaf cool for a few minutes so slicing is easy Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for freshness Slice thick portions and serve while hot for best flavor and texture

Save

I love using sweet red bell peppers in this recipe because their flavor really pops against the savory beef My family fondly remembers our first cheesesteak loaf night when we ate every last bite straight from the tray standing at the counter

Storage Tips

Store leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven to keep the bread crispy Avoid microwaving as it softens the loaf

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version swap out beef for cooked shredded chicken If provolone is not available try mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese Dairy free cheese also works if melting quality is high Skip the garlic butter and use olive oil if needed

Serving Suggestions

Cut the bread into thick slices for appetizer trays or smaller finger food portions for parties Offer bowls of warmed marinara sauce or cheese sauce for dipping For a heartier meal add a crisp green salad on the side

Cultural Story

The cheesesteak sandwich comes from Philadelphia and is an East Coast legend In this recipe those iconic flavors get wrapped in a comfort food classic garlic bread loaf I first came up with this on Super Bowl Sunday as a twist on takeout It has since replaced pizza as our top game day request

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of beef works best for this dish?

Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin provides tenderness and flavor, essential for an authentic cheesesteak experience.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Provolone delivers classic melt and flavor, but mozzarella or cheddar can be substituted depending on taste preference.

→ How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Let the cooked beef and veggies cool slightly before assembling, and avoid overfilling with excess juices.

→ Are there vegetable additions that work well?

Besides bell peppers and onions, sautéed mushrooms can add earthiness and extra richness to the filling.

→ Is this best served hot or at room temperature?

Serve warm for optimal melted cheese and soft, flavorful filling. Leftovers can be reheated for best texture.