Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Loaf

Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Loaf is a bold, savory twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, all packed into a crusty garlic bread loaf. Tender shaved beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and melty cheese are loaded into a hollowed-out loaf, then baked until golden and gooey. It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for feeding a crowd or making an unforgettable weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something over-the-top and crowd-pleasing. It’s cheesy, garlicky, and packed with juicy beef and sautéed vegetables. The garlic butter seeps into the loaf, giving every bite a rich, toasty flavor. It’s easy to prep, super satisfying, and makes a great party dish, game-day snack, or comfort food indulgence.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• French bread or Italian loaf

• Thinly sliced beef (ribeye, sirloin, or shaved steak)

• Onion, thinly sliced

• Bell pepper (green or red), thinly sliced

• Mushrooms (optional), sliced

• Provolone cheese or mozzarella slices

• Shredded cheddar (optional, for extra melt)

• Butter

• Garlic, minced

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. I slice the top off the loaf and hollow out the center, leaving enough bread along the sides to hold the filling. I set the removed bread aside for another use or discard it.

3. In a skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the sliced onions, peppers, and mushrooms (if using) until softened and caramelized. I season with a little salt and pepper.

4. I push the veggies to the side and add the beef to the same skillet, cooking until just browned. I mix everything together and remove from heat.

5. In a small bowl, I mix melted butter with minced garlic and brush it all over the inside of the hollowed-out loaf.

6. I layer provolone cheese slices inside the loaf, followed by the cheesesteak mixture, and top with more cheese.

7. I wrap the loaf loosely in foil and bake for 15–20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5 minutes to brown the top.

8. I let it cool slightly before slicing into thick, cheesy portions and garnishing with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, depending on how thick I slice it. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, so it’s ready in around 40 minutes total.

Variations

• I sometimes use pepper jack or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.

• For a spicy kick, I add jalapeños or use spicy shredded cheese in the filling.

• I’ve also made this with leftover roast beef or deli steak slices for a quicker option.

• If I want extra richness, I add a drizzle of cheese sauce before baking.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through. I avoid microwaving if I want to keep the bread crispy, but it works for a fast reheat.

FAQs

What kind of bread works best?

I usually go for a sturdy French or Italian loaf—something with a crisp crust and enough body to hold all the fillings without falling apart.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the loaf up to a day ahead and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving. I let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely. I’ve made this with cooked chicken, pulled pork, and even ground beef. As long as it’s well-seasoned and cooked, it works great.

What cheese melts best in this recipe?

Provolone is my go-to for that classic cheesesteak flavor, but mozzarella, cheddar, or even American cheese melt beautifully too.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Brushing the inside with garlic butter helps create a barrier. I also let the filling cool slightly before assembling to reduce excess moisture.

Conclusion

Cheesesteak-Stuffed Garlic Loaf is one of those satisfying, over-the-top meals I keep in my back pocket for when I want to impress without too much effort. With its savory beef, gooey cheese, and garlic-infused bread, it’s pure comfort food magic—perfect for sharing, but honestly, I could eat the whole thing myself.

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