Description
A delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, this Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread combines flavorful ground beef, sautéed onions and peppers, and melted provolone cheese on a garlic butter toasted Italian loaf. Perfect for party appetizers or a hearty snack, it’s baked to golden perfection and topped with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Garlic Bread Base
- 1 Italian loaf, cut lengthwise
- 4 Tablespoons (1/2 stick) salted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 teaspoons garlic powder (divided use)
Meat and Vegetable Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 2 Tablespoons ketchup
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 12 slices provolone cheese
- 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, can use dried as well)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for toasting the garlic bread and melting the cheese at the end.
- Prepare the Bread: Place the Italian loaf cut lengthwise on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the softened salted butter evenly on both sides of the loaf, then sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of garlic powder for a flavorful garlic base.
- Toast the Bread: Bake the prepared loaf in the preheated oven for 3 to 5 minutes until it is slightly toasted. This ensures a crisp texture to complement the filling.
- Cook Beef and Vegetables: While the bread toasts, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef, diced yellow onion, and diced green bell pepper. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables have softened.
- Make the Sauce: To the skillet with the beef mixture, add low-sodium beef broth, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cornstarch, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir well and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat and vegetables.
- Assemble First Layer: Spoon half of the meat mixture onto one half of the toasted loaf, spreading it evenly.
- Add Cheese Layer: Place six slices of provolone cheese over the meat mixture for a creamy, melty layer.
- Assemble Second Layer: Add the remaining half of the meat mixture over the cheese layer to build up rich layers of flavor.
- Top with Cheese: Cover the final meat layer with the remaining six slices of provolone cheese, preparing it to melt during baking.
- Bake to Melt Cheese: Place the assembled loaf halves into the oven at 350°F for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly. Optionally, broil on high for 1 to 3 minutes to achieve a golden brown top, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Finish with Parsley: Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired, adding freshness and color. Serve warm and enjoy your Philly Cheesesteak Garlic Bread.
Notes
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- For an extra crispy finish, broil but monitor carefully to avoid burning.
- Parsley is optional, but it adds a nice visual contrast and fresh flavor.
- Substitute provolone with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred, though classic provolone offers the best melt and flavor.
- Can be prepared with lean ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
