French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread
When it comes to comfort food, few things can rival the satisfaction of a well-made Philly cheesesteak. Originating from the streets of Philadelphia, this iconic sandwich is known for its tender, juicy steak slices, melty cheese, and hearty rolls. But what happens when you take this classic and give it a gourmet twist by infusing it with the rich, aromatic flavors of garlic and the crusty goodness of French bread? You get the French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread—a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the recipe, exploring each step in detail so you can create this mouthwatering dish at home. From choosing the best cuts of beef to mastering the garlic butter spread, we’ll cover everything you need to know. By the end, you’ll have a new favorite to add to your comfort food repertoire.
Introduction to French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread
Imagine biting into a loaf of crispy French bread, its crusty exterior giving way to a soft, tender interior loaded with savory slices of beef, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, all smothered in a rich garlic butter and gooey cheese sauce. That’s what you can expect from this unique take on the traditional Philly cheesesteak. By swapping out the typical hoagie roll for French bread and adding a garlicky twist, this dish offers a deliciously different experience.
Whether you’re a Philly cheesesteak purist or someone who loves experimenting with flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s perfect for a casual family dinner, a game day treat, or even a special occasion when you want to impress your guests with something a little out of the ordinary.
The History of the Philly Cheesesteak
To truly appreciate the French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread, it helps to understand the roots of the original Philly cheesesteak. The Philly cheesesteak was born in the early 20th century in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It’s believed that Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, created the sandwich when he decided to grill some beef and serve it on an Italian roll. The aroma attracted a cab driver, who requested his own sandwich, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Over the years, the Philly cheesesteak has evolved, with different regions adding their own twists—whether it’s the type of cheese (Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American) or the addition of sautéed onions and peppers. However, the essence of the sandwich remains the same: a satisfying combination of tender beef, melty cheese, and a sturdy roll.
Why French Bread? The Perfect Vessel
French bread might not be the first choice that comes to mind when you think of a cheesesteak, but it’s a perfect match for this recipe. The crusty exterior of French bread provides a delightful contrast to the tender beef and gooey cheese. Moreover, its airy, soft interior soaks up the flavors of the garlic butter and cheese sauce, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
Another advantage of using French bread is its size. A large loaf can easily feed multiple people, making it an excellent choice for sharing. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients without becoming soggy or falling apart, even when loaded with generous amounts of steak, cheese, and vegetables.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
The star of any cheesesteak is the beef, and choosing the right cut is crucial for achieving that tender, juicy texture. Ribeye steak is the traditional choice and for good reason. It’s marbled with fat, which ensures that the meat stays moist and flavorful as it cooks.
When selecting your ribeye, ask your butcher to slice it as thinly as possible. If you’re slicing it at home, a handy tip is to place the steak in the freezer for about 20-30 minutes before cutting. This firms up the meat, making it easier to slice thinly against the grain.
If ribeye isn’t available, other cuts like sirloin or flank steak can be used, but they may require a little more attention to ensure they remain tender. Marinating these cuts in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and a splash of vinegar can help break down the fibers and enhance the flavor.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Spread
One of the key components that sets this recipe apart is the garlic butter spread. This spread infuses the bread with a rich, garlicky flavor that complements the beef and cheese perfectly.
Steps to Make the Garlic Butter Spread:
- Soften the Butter: Start by letting your butter come to room temperature. This makes it easier to mix with the other ingredients and ensures an even spread.
- Mix in the Garlic: Combine the softened butter with minced garlic, garlic powder, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the butter.
- Spread Generously: Cut the French bread in half lengthwise and spread the garlic butter mixture generously over both halves. Be sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges, to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Crafting the Perfect Cheese Sauce
A good cheesesteak isn’t complete without a rich, creamy cheese sauce. In this recipe, we’re taking it up a notch by creating a homemade cheese sauce that’s both flavorful and easy to make.
Steps to Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking the mixture until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more milk.
- Keep Warm: Once the sauce is ready, keep it warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. This ensures it stays smooth and pourable when it’s time to assemble the cheesesteak.
Sautéing the Onions and Peppers
No Philly cheesesteak is complete without sautéed onions and peppers. These vegetables add sweetness and a bit of crunch, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
Steps to Sauté the Onions and Peppers:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and peppers.
- Cook Until Softened: Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re softened and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Season: Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of sugar to enhance the caramelization process.
- Set Aside: Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside. You’ll add them to the bread just before baking.
Assembling the French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread
Now that all your components are ready, it’s time to assemble the French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread. This is where everything comes together to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Steps to Assemble:
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the garlic butter-spread French bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
- Layer the Beef: Spread the thinly sliced ribeye steak evenly over the bottom half of the bread. Make sure to distribute the meat so that every bite is packed with beefy goodness.
- Add the Vegetables: Top the steak with the sautéed onions and peppers. If you’re using any optional toppings like mushrooms or hot peppers, add them now.
- Drizzle the Cheese Sauce: Generously drizzle the cheese sauce over the vegetables. You want enough sauce to cover the filling but not so much that it overwhelms the other flavors.
- Top with Cheese: Place the sliced provolone cheese over the cheese sauce, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. This creates a melty, gooey top layer that ties everything together.
- Assemble the Bread: Place the top half of the bread over the filling, pressing down gently to help the flavors meld.
Baking Tips for a Crispy, Flavorful Bread
Baking is the final step that transforms this sandwich into a golden, crispy delight. Here are some tips to ensure your French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread comes out perfectly:
Steps to Bake:
- Wrap in Foil: To keep the bread from drying out, wrap the assembled loaf in aluminum foil. This traps in moisture, ensuring the bread stays soft on the inside while the crust becomes golden and crispy.
- Bake and Crisp: Bake the wrapped loaf in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is heated through. For an extra crispy crust, open the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Rest Before Cutting: Once baked, let the bread rest for a few minutes before cutting. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
The French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread is a hearty dish that can be served on its own or with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: A classic pairing that adds a crispy element to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy slaw can balance the richness of the cheesesteak.
- Pickles: Add some crunch and acidity with a side of pickles or pickled vegetables.
- Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the heavy sandwich.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Mushroom Philly Cheesesteak: Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
- Spicy Philly Cheesesteak: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the sandwich a kick.
- Philly Cheesesteak Pizza: Instead of using French bread, spread the garlic butter, steak, and vegetables over a pizza crust and bake as you would a regular pizza.
Health Considerations and Modifications
While the French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread is undeniably indulgent, there are ways to lighten it up if you’re looking for a healthier option:
- Use Leaner Meat: Opt for a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin, or use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute.
- Whole Wheat Bread: Swap the French bread for a whole wheat loaf to add fiber and nutrients.
- Light Cheese Sauce: Use a reduced-fat cheese and low-fat milk in the cheese sauce to cut down on calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components (garlic butter, cheese sauce, sautéed vegetables, and sliced steak) ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Assemble and bake the sandwich just before serving for the best results.
Q2: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Wrap the sandwich in foil and reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. This will help keep the bread crispy while reheating the filling.
Q3: Can I freeze the assembled sandwich?
While it’s possible to freeze the sandwich, the texture of the bread might change after thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
The French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread is a mouthwatering fusion of two beloved foods: the classic Philly cheesesteak and crusty French bread. By adding a garlic butter spread, homemade cheese sauce, and perfectly sautéed vegetables, this recipe elevates the traditional sandwich to a whole new level.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a party, or just because you’re craving something indulgent, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its crispy exterior, savory filling, and rich flavors, the French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread is comfort food at its finest.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a sandwich that’s both familiar and delightfully different. Bon appétit!
French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread
When it comes to comfort food, few things can rival the satisfaction of a well-made Philly cheesesteak. Originating from the streets of Philadelphia, this iconic sandwich is known for its tender, juicy steak slices, melty cheese, and hearty rolls. But what happens when you take this classic and give it a gourmet twist by infusing it with the rich, aromatic flavors of garlic and the crusty goodness of French bread? You get the French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread—a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 Loaf Frozen French garlic bread
- 12 oz. Philly cheesesteak meat
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 2 C. Shredded provolone cheese
- 1 Green bell pepper chopped
- 1 Medium onion chopped
- Garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
Bake the garlic bread to package instructions and leave the oven on when done.
Cook the meat over medium high heat until browned completely, and drain any excess fat.
Stir the worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper into themeat and set aside.
Add some olive oil to a skillet over medium heat, and cook the vegetables until tender.
Layer some cheese on top of the cooked garlic bread.
Add the meat, onions and peppers and more cheese on top of the bread.
Bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 380