When it comes to comforting, delicious meals, few can compete with the hearty flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. Now, imagine taking that iconic sandwich and transforming it into a mouthwatering stromboli—an easy-to-hold, hand-held delight filled with juicy steak, melty cheese, and vibrant vegetables. This Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli combines the best elements of the classic dish with the convenience of a baked pastry, making it perfect for game day, family dinners, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ribeye steak (or use roast beef for a quicker option)
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for that umami kick
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, whichever you prefer)
- 1 ½ cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese (or a mix for more flavor)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for an extra crunch)
Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Steak and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the thinly sliced ribeye steak. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Next, in the same skillet (don’t wash it yet!), toss in the sliced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms if you’re using them. Sauté these vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavors. Once they’re perfectly cooked, remove them from heat.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately 10×14 inches. This doesn’t have to be perfect, but try to keep it even so that your stromboli cooks evenly.
Step 4: Assemble the Stromboli
Now comes the fun part: assembly! Start by spreading the cooked steak evenly down the center of the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border on all sides. Next, layer the sautéed vegetables on top of the steak. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the filling. The cheese is key—it’ll melt and bind everything together as it bakes.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Carefully fold the sides of the dough over the filling. Then, fold the top and bottom edges over to create a secure seal. This step is crucial; you want to ensure that all those delicious fillings stay tucked inside as the stromboli bakes. Once sealed, gently transfer the stromboli to the prepared baking sheet, placing it seam-side down.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
For that beautiful golden finish, brush the top of the stromboli with the beaten egg. If you like a little crunch, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Pop the stromboli into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown color and the cheese to be melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma, tempting you to dive in.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your stromboli is out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing it into generous pieces. This brief cooling period allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Pair your Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli with some marinara sauce or a creamy cheese sauce for dipping. These accompaniments add a nice touch and enhance the overall flavor experience.
Tips for Customization
While this recipe captures the essence of a traditional Philly cheesesteak, there’s plenty of room for personalization. Here are a few suggestions to make it your own:
- Cheese Choices: While provolone and mozzarella are classic choices, consider mixing in some sharp cheddar or even pepper jack for a little kick.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or even jalapeños if you enjoy a bit of heat. The key is to balance flavors and textures.
- Saucy Twist: For a richer filling, consider adding a layer of cheese sauce directly onto the dough before adding the steak and veggies. It adds creaminess and an extra cheese hit!
- Herbs and Spices: Don’t hesitate to add herbs like oregano or basil, or spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor profile even further.
Perfect Pairings
To make your meal even more satisfying, consider serving your stromboli with a light salad or crispy potato wedges. A side of coleslaw can also provide a refreshing crunch that complements the hearty flavors of the stromboli.
The Final Bite
This Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli is not just a meal; it’s an experience! It brings together the beloved flavors of a classic sandwich in a fun, new format that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a game night, enjoying a family dinner, or just treating yourself to a comforting meal, this dish is sure to impress.
So, would you eat this Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli? If you’re like most people, the answer is a resounding yes! Try it out, and you might just find it becomes a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking!
