This recipe combines the hearty flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the comforting appeal of garlic bread. Perfect for dinner, parties, or as a shareable appetizer, it’s loaded with juicy ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, all on a crispy, garlicky bread base.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is the ultimate fusion of two comfort-food classics. Imagine the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak piled high on a crusty, garlicky bread base, then topped with gooey, golden cheese. It’s perfect as a hearty appetizer, a game-day snack, or even a satisfying dinner. The best part? It’s endlessly customizable—add bell peppers for a pop of color or jalapeños for a spicy kick. Trust me, once you try this, it’s bound to become a regular on your menu!
Key Ingredients
Italian Bread or French Baguette: A sturdy base that holds up to the hearty toppings. Italian bread provides a softer texture, while a baguette delivers a crispier bite.
Ribeye Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor thanks to its marbled fat.
Onion: Caramelized onions bring a sweet, savory depth to the dish, balancing the richness of the steak and cheese.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the bread with bold, aromatic flavor, elevating the overall dish.
Shredded Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, creamy topping. Provolone adds a sharp tang, while mozzarella brings a mild creaminess.
Olive Oil: Used to cook the steak and onions, adding richness and helping to caramelize the ingredients.
Optional Toppings (Bell Peppers, Mushrooms, Jalapeños): Add layers of flavor, texture, and color to customize the garlic bread to your taste.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Bread and Oven
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the bread crisps perfectly and the cheese melts evenly.
Prepare the Bread:
Slice your Italian bread or French baguette in half lengthwise.
Place the halves cut side up on a baking sheet. These will serve as the base for your garlic bread.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
Heat the Skillet:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Cook the Steak:
Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak to the skillet.
Cook until the steak is browned and fully cooked, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
Set Aside:
Transfer the cooked steak to a plate and let it rest, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the thinly sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 10-15 minutes).
Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Would you like to save this?
Step 4: Assemble the Garlic Bread
Spread the Steak:
Evenly distribute the cooked steak over the cut sides of the bread.
Add the Onions and Garlic:
Spread the caramelized onions and garlic evenly over the steak.
Sprinkle the Cheese:
Generously sprinkle shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese over the steak and onion mixture.
Step 5: Add Optional Toppings (Optional)
Customize with sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños for added flavor and color.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet with the assembled bread in the preheated oven.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden, and the bread edges are crispy.
Monitor the Bread:
Keep an eye on the bread to ensure it doesn’t overbrown.
Step 7: Serve
Cool and Cut:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Slice into portions for easy serving.
Serve Hot:
Serve immediately and enjoy the irresistible combination of crispy bread, tender steak, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese.
Step 8: Enjoy
Savor the Flavors:
Whether as a meal or appetizer, relish each flavorful bite of your Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread!
Serving Suggestions
Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and drinks. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
Crispy Fries or Tater Tots: The ultimate comfort-food duo.
Side Salad: A light, tangy arugula or mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness.
Beer or Soda: A cold lager or a classic cola enhances the flavors and complements the cheesy, savory goodness.
Tomato Soup: For a fun twist, serve this with a warm, hearty soup for dipping!
Storage Tips
Refrigerating Leftovers
Store cooled slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore the crispy texture.
Freezing for Later
Assemble the garlic bread (without baking) and freeze on a baking sheet until solid.
Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
To bake, add a few extra minutes to the oven time, baking straight from frozen.
Variations
Classic Philly Style: Add sautéed green bell peppers and mushrooms to the mix for a traditional Philly cheesesteak experience.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red chili flakes for some heat.
Cheese Swap: Try using cheddar, Swiss, or a mix of provolone and mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with hearty portobello mushrooms or seitan for a plant-based version.
Garlic Butter Upgrade: Spread a mix of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on the bread before adding the steak for an extra burst of garlicky goodness.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread is a show-stopper that delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction. With its crispy base, juicy steak, sweet caramelized onions, and melty cheese, this recipe is pure comfort food magic. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding a hungry family, or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and variations to make it your own—because this recipe is just as versatile as it is delicious.
Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Italian bread or French baguette sliced lengthwise
- 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye steak
- 1 onion thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- optional toppings sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the bread in half lengthwise and place the halves cut side up on a baking sheet.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ribeye steak and cook until browned, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the onions over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Spread the steak evenly over the bread. Top with the caramelized onions and garlic, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Customize with optional toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Keep an eye on the bread to avoid overbrowning.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Slice into portions and serve hot.
- Savor the crispy bread, tender steak, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect as a meal or appetizer.