Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Loaf

This cheesesteak-stuffed garlic bread loaf transforms ordinary Italian bread into an extraordinary meal that combines two beloved comfort foods in one irresistible package. The crispy exterior gives way to gooey cheese and savory beef filling that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I first made this when hosting friends for a football game, and it disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Now it's become our Sunday tradition during sports season when we need something substantial but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Italian bread loaf: A hearty loaf with a crusty exterior works best as it maintains structure when filled
• Thinly sliced beef: Look for ribeye or sirloin that's been sliced paper thin for authentic cheesesteak texture
• Bell peppers: Mixed colors add visual appeal and slightly different flavor notes to complement the beef
• Onions: Sweet vidalia onions caramelize beautifully but yellow onions work great too
• Provolone cheese: The traditional choice for authentic flavor with perfect meltability
• Garlic butter: Creates that irresistible aroma and flavor that elevates the entire dish
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors without overwhelming
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes to finish the dish

How To Make Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Bread Loaf

Prep the bread:

Slice your Italian loaf lengthwise as if making a submarine sandwich then gently hollow out some of the soft interior bread to create a cavity for filling. Don't remove too much or the structure will be compromised. Save the bread pieces for making breadcrumbs another day.

Sauté the aromatics:

In a large skillet over medium heat melt the garlic butter until fragrant then add your sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 7 minutes stirring occasionally until they begin to soften and the onions become translucent with light caramelization around the edges.

Cook the beef:

Add the thinly sliced beef to the vegetables in the skillet and season generously with salt and pepper. Because the beef is so thin it will cook quickly in about 3 to 4 minutes. Break larger pieces apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks to ensure even distribution in the finished loaf.

Assemble and fill:

Place your hollowed bread on a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup. Spoon the hot beef pepper and onion mixture into the bread cavity distributing it evenly from end to end. Press lightly to compact the filling slightly.

Add cheese and bake:

Cover the filling completely with shredded provolone using all two cups for maximum gooey texture. Place in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is completely melted with light browning on top and the bread exterior has crisped.

Rest and serve:

Allow the stuffed loaf to rest for 3 to 5 minutes before slicing which helps the cheese set slightly and prevents immediate oozing. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley slice into portions and serve while still warm.

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The garlic butter is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I make extra and freeze it in small portions so I always have some ready for impromptu garlic bread cravings. My daughter now refuses regular garlic bread after experiencing this stuffed version which she calls "the ultimate upgrade."

Make-Ahead Options

This cheesesteak stuffed loaf works beautifully as a make-ahead meal. You can prepare the filling up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve simply reheat the filling in a skillet warm it through and proceed with stuffing the bread and baking. This trick has saved me countless times when entertaining as I can do the messy prep work beforehand and just assemble when guests arrive.

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Serving Suggestions

This hearty stuffed bread works beautifully as a standalone meal but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich filling. For more substantial meals especially when feeding hungry teenagers I serve it alongside tomato soup for dipping. The loaf slices cleanly into portions making it perfect for buffet style service where guests can help themselves.

Flavor Variations

While the classic Philly cheesesteak flavors are hard to beat this stuffed bread concept lends itself to endless variations. Try using ground Italian sausage with marinara and mozzarella for an Italian twist. For breakfast lovers a version with scrambled eggs bacon and cheddar makes a showstopping brunch centerpiece. Vegetarians can enjoy a version stuffed with sautéed mushrooms spinach and caramelized onions that mimics the texture of the original without the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, avoid overfilling the hollowed-out bread with too much liquid or sauce. Use a crusty loaf and bake long enough for the bread to crisp up slightly.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! While provolone enhances the dish's flavor, other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack work well too.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Pair the stuffed garlic bread with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the bread just before baking. For best results, bake fresh to keep the bread crisp.

→ Can I use pre-cooked beef?

Yes, pre-cooked beef can be used! Simply warm it up with the peppers and onions in the skillet before stuffing the bread.