Key Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this cheesy grilled bread:
- French Bread: This is your base for all the Philly-style action that’s going on top. Choose a nice, sturdy loaf that can withstand all of the layers and not fall apart.
- Ground Beef: I prefer lean ground beef (93% lean) for flavor without too much grease. Nobody wants soggy bread!
Sweet Onion, Green Bell Pepper, and Mushrooms: These vegetables provide the classic cheesesteak flavors. - Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a layer of deep and savory flavor to the beef.
- Beef Broth and Cornstarch: Also a kind of quick-thickening roux, can be mixed into the meat filling.
- Or Shredded Cheese: Provolone or Monterey Jack are delicious options that melt well
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a little heat and added depth.
Directions
- Prime the Bread: Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut a loaf of French bread in half, lengthwise, and hollow out a little of what’s inside, just enough to create a shallow well. Slather each half with mayonnaise for creaminess and to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
- Brown the Beef and Veggies: Sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms in some olive oil until soft. Add the beef and cook, stirring, until browned. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Thicken with a cornstarch and beef broth slurry, simmering until the sauce is smooth and thick.
- Build the Bread: Spoon the beef and veggie mixture evenly over each half of the bread. Generously top with shredded cheese.
- Bake and Serve: Bake for 15 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden. Broil for a few minutes longer for crispness, then slice and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
This Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Bread is delicious all by itself, but if you want to turn it into a complete meal, here are some possible side dishes:
Caesar Salad: The crispy, tangy cheesiness of a Caesar salad works perfectly with the cheesy bread.
Oven-roasted veg: think about roasting some asparagus or broccoli or Brussels sprouts. They’re a delicious and healthy side dish that nicely offsets the rest of the meal.
Potato Wedges: A handful of crispy oven-baked potato wedges on the side makes this a warm, comforting feel-good dish.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Got leftovers? Just stick ‘em in an airtight container and put in the fridge. (She says they’ll stay fresh for 3 days.)
Reheating: To reheat, lay slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350-degree oven until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
Freezing: The unbaked bread halves can be frozen. Assemble as instructed, but leave out the baking part. Tightly wrap each half in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, defrost overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Variations to Try
Steak version: Substitute thinly sliced ribeye steak for the ground beef. Sear the steak slices in the skillet before you add them to the bread for a more authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
Chicken Philly Cheesesteak: Use ground chicken or thin sliced chicken breast instead of ground beef. A dash or two more Worcestershire for depth.
Veggie Delight: Keep the meat, and add a rainbow of sautéed veggies, like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and even spinach. Use a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for the cheese.
Final Note
This Cheesy Bread with Philly Cheesesteak is the ultimate fusion of two comfort food classics. Whether you’re featuring it as a game day snack or a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to become an instant hit at your house. And don’t feel shy to take creative liberty—feel free to try different cheeses, meats, or veggies to customize it to your ideal version.
