Description: Everything you love about a Philly cheesesteak—ooey-gooey cheese, tender beef, and sautéed peppers—all wrapped in golden, flaky dough. It’s the ultimate comfort-food twist! This recipe transforms the iconic sandwich into a shareable, satisfying meal that’s perfect for game day, potlucks, or a fun family dinner. Imagine biting into layers of savory steak, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked vegetables, all encased in a crispy, golden-brown crust. This Stromboli is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak (or deli roast beef): The star of the show! Thinly sliced ribeye provides the authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor and texture. Deli roast beef is a convenient and budget-friendly alternative.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and adding a subtle richness to the filling.
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the filling. Yellow or white onions work best.
- 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced: Provides a slightly bitter and crisp element that balances the richness of the steak and cheese.
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the filling.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a classic, melty, and stretchy cheese component that binds the filling together.
- 1/2 cup provolone cheese slices, torn: Provides a sharper, slightly tangy flavor that complements the mozzarella and adds complexity to the cheese profile.
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough or homemade dough: Forms the crust that encases the Philly cheesesteak filling. Refrigerated dough is convenient, while homemade dough offers superior flavor and texture.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Creates a glossy, golden-brown crust and helps seal the edges of the Stromboli.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the steak and vegetables, enhancing their natural flavors.
- Optional: garlic powder or Italian seasoning for topping: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the crust, complementing the savory filling.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep:
1.1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the Stromboli bakes evenly and the crust becomes golden brown. 1.2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the Stromboli from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Season the Steak:
2.1. Season sliced steak with salt and pepper. Generously seasoning the steak is crucial for developing its flavor. Don’t be afraid to use a good amount of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables:
3.1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Using medium heat prevents the vegetables from burning and allows them to soften and release their flavors. 3.2. Sauté onions and peppers until soft (5–7 mins). Sautéing the vegetables until soft enhances their sweetness and creates a more pleasant texture in the finished Stromboli. Remove the sautéed vegetables from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly. This prevents them from overheating the steak when assembled.
Step 4: Cook the Steak:
4.1. Add steak to the skillet and cook for 2–3 mins until just browned. Avoid overcooking the steak, as it will continue to cook in the oven. The goal is to brown the steak and develop its flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Stromboli:
5.1. Roll out pizza dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. A floured surface prevents the dough from sticking and makes it easier to work with. Aim for a rectangle approximately 12×16 inches. 5.2. Layer steak, peppers/onions, mozzarella, and provolone down the center of the dough. Leave a 2-inch border on all sides for sealing. Evenly distribute the steak and vegetables to ensure each bite is flavorful. 5.3. Fold sides over filling, pinch to seal, and place seam-side down on baking sheet. Ensure the Stromboli is tightly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Pinch the dough together firmly to create a secure seal. 5.4. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with garlic powder or Italian seasoning if desired. Egg wash gives the crust a glossy, golden-brown finish. Garlic powder or Italian seasoning adds an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Stromboli:
6.1. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown. The Stromboli is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If the crust is browning too quickly, tent it with foil. 6.2. Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Allowing the Stromboli to rest before slicing allows the filling to set and prevents it from being too runny. It also makes it easier to slice neatly.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First and foremost, it captures all the delicious flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a fun and portable format. The combination of tender, savory steak, sweet and slightly smoky sautéed vegetables, and gooey melted cheese is simply irresistible. Beyond the taste, this Stromboli is surprisingly easy to make, especially if you use store-bought pizza dough. It’s a great way to transform leftovers or use up ingredients you already have on hand.
Furthermore, the Stromboli is incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling to suit your preferences, adding mushrooms, hot peppers, or different types of cheese. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can assemble the Stromboli earlier in the day and bake it just before serving, making it perfect for entertaining. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd, as it can be easily sliced into individual portions. It’s a fun and creative twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm, sliced into individual portions.
- Pair with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Serve with a side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Enjoy it as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
- Perfect for game day, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Tips:
- Use high-quality steak for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the steak, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Sauté the vegetables until soft and slightly caramelized for a richer flavor.
- Make sure to seal the Stromboli tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Let the Stromboli rest before slicing to allow the filling to set.
- For a crispier crust, brush with melted butter or olive oil before baking.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
- Add sliced mushrooms or hot peppers to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 430 kcal per serving
- Protein: Approximately 30g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 700mg per serving
Conclusion
The Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli is a delicious and satisfying twist on a classic sandwich. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for sharing. With its layers of savory steak, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked vegetables, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust, this Stromboli is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a fun and easy dinner, or a creative way to use up leftovers, this recipe is a winner. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience! It’s a guaranteed hit that brings the taste of Philly right to your kitchen.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of steak?
A: Absolutely! While thinly sliced ribeye is the most authentic choice for a Philly cheesesteak, you can certainly substitute it with other types of steak. Sirloin steak, flank steak, or even pre-cooked deli roast beef will work well. Just make sure to slice the steak thinly so it cooks evenly and is easy to bite into. The key is to choose a cut that’s relatively tender and has good flavor.
Q2: What if I don’t have provolone cheese?
A: No problem! Provolone cheese adds a distinct tanginess to the Stromboli, but you can easily replace it with other cheeses that melt well. Some good alternatives include white cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even more mozzarella. If you want to add a bit of a kick, consider using pepper jack cheese. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s very adaptable to your personal preferences.
Q3: Can I make this Stromboli ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! This Stromboli is perfect for making ahead of time. Assemble the Stromboli completely, up to the point of baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, brush it with egg wash, and bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the Stromboli is cold.
Q4: What’s the best way to reheat leftover Stromboli?
A: The best way to reheat leftover Stromboli is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Stromboli on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help to crisp up the crust and melt the cheese. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the crust may become a bit soggy.
Q5: Can I add any other ingredients to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add any other ingredients you enjoy in your Philly cheesesteaks. Sliced mushrooms, sautéed onions, banana peppers, or even a drizzle of hot sauce can all add extra flavor and texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make the Stromboli your own! Just remember to not overfill the Stromboli, as this could make it difficult to seal properly.
