When I first tried my hand at making Cheesy Steak Stuffed French Bread, I was looking for something that would be a hit with both my family and guests. The result was nothing short of spectacular! The combination of juicy steak, sautéed vegetables, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all encased in a crusty French bread, was an instant favorite. It’s become a requested dish at family gatherings, and even the pickiest eaters have asked for seconds. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is absolutely mouthwatering.
Ingredients
- 1 large French bread loaf
- 1 pound thinly sliced steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the French bread loaf in half lengthwise and hollow out the inside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add steak, onions, and bell pepper. Cook until steak is browned and vegetables are tender.
- Season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Fill the hollowed bread with the steak mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Brush the outside of the bread with melted butter.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350
Additional Tips
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the steak mixture.
- If you prefer a crunchier crust, broil the bread for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- This recipe can also be made with chicken or ground beef for a variation.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a side salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of marinara sauce for dipping adds an extra layer of flavor. No matter how you serve it, this Cheesy Steak Stuffed French Bread is a showstopper that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I prepare this in advance? A1: Absolutely! You can assemble the bread with the filling and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
Q2: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? A2: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep the bread crispy.
Q3: Can I use different types of cheese? A3: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone.
Q4: Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe? A4: For a vegetarian version, substitute steak with mushrooms or a mixture of your favorite veggies.
Q5: Can I freeze the stuffed French bread? A5: Yes, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze. Thaw and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.