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This Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli brings together everything comforting about a Philly cheesesteak and the irresistible appeal of golden crisp bread. Convenient, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it is my go to for gatherings and busy weeknights alike. The crispy crust and gooey cheese guarantee smiles at the table and leftovers never last long.
I first made this for a family game night and now it is the most requested dish whenever friends or guests visit The slices disappear faster than anything else on the buffet
Ingredients
- Frozen white bread loaf: fully thawed This gives the best chewy crust and saves time compared to making dough from scratch
- Mayonnaise mixed with garlic powder: for a creamy layer that keeps the inside moist Look for a quality mayo with few additives
- Butter: for sautéing vegetables and brushing the top Use unsalted for control over the saltiness
- Green bell pepper: provides sweetness and color Pick firm peppers with glossy skin
- Yellow onion: brings savory depth and a classic flavor Look for onions that are heavy for their size and have dry skins
- Mushrooms: add earthiness and texture Choose fresh mushrooms with no dark spots or slimy texture
- Deli roast beef: thinly sliced It is easy to layer and gives authentic cheesesteak flavor Opt for freshly sliced from the deli counter
- Provolone cheese: creamy and melty Select full fat provolone for best melt and taste
- Garlic salt, sesame seeds and dried parsley: finish the stromboli with extra flavor and crunch Make sure the garlic salt is fresh so it packs a punch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Thaw and Rise the Dough:
- Place bread dough in a greased bowl and cover. Let it rise in a warm spot until fully thawed and doubled in size. This often takes a few hours but is essential for the right texture
- Prepare the Vegetable Filling:
- Dice the bell pepper and onion evenly and slice mushrooms thinly. Melt some butter in a skillet on medium heat Sauté the vegetables until softened and lightly browned about six minutes. Let them cool so they do not steam the dough
- Preheat and Prep the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with cooking oil for stress free removal
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Flour your work surface and roll out the risen dough into a twelve by eighteen inch rectangle Keep the thickness even so it bakes uniformly
- Make the Spread:
- Mix mayonnaise with garlic powder in a small bowl. Spread this over the dough leaving a small border on all sides so it seals well
- Layer the Fillings:
- Distribute roast beef slices evenly. Then add your sautéed vegetables and finish with provolone cheese slices overlapping to cover every bite
- Roll the Stromboli:
- Tightly roll up the dough from the long side like a jelly roll Pinch the seams and tuck in both ends to keep all the goodness inside
- Prepare for Baking:
- Place the roll seam side down on the baking sheet. Brush the top generously with butter and sprinkle with garlic salt sesame seeds and dried parsley for a beautiful finish
- Bake Until Golden:
- Bake for fifteen to twenty minutes until the top is golden and the inside hits an internal temperature of at least one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit
- Rest and Slice:
- Allow the stromboli to rest for five minutes before slicing This makes slicing easier and keeps the filling from spilling out
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The gooey cheese is my children’s favorite part to the point they compete for the cheesiest slice Watching the cheese stretch from piece to piece still makes everyone laugh at dinner
Storage Tips
Wrap any leftovers tightly in foil or pop into an airtight container The stromboli will keep in the fridge for up to three days To bring back the crispy crust reheat in a three hundred fifty degree oven for about ten minutes until hot and bubbly
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap deli roast beef for leftover steak or even cooked ground beef if that is what you have Cheddar or mozzarella work in place of provolone for a different twist Smoky gouda or Swiss can also give tasty variations
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices with a bowl of marinara or garlic aioli for dipping Add a simple green salad or roasted potatoes to complete the meal You can also offer pickles or hot peppers alongside just like at a classic cheesesteak shop
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Cultural and Historical Context
Stromboli emerged from Italian American kitchens as a cousin to the calzone but rolled and baked rather than folded This fun Philly twist modernizes the concept by adding the iconic flavors of beef onions peppers and melty cheese
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Definitely! American cheese, mozzarella, or Cheez Whiz work well if you want to switch up the flavors or create a more classic Philly style.
- → How do I prevent soggy dough?
Allow veggies to cool before layering and don’t overload with fillings. Bake until the crust is deeply golden for best results.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble the stromboli and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.
- → What are good meat alternatives?
Leftover steak, cooked ground beef, or even thinly sliced chicken can be used instead of the deli roast beef.
- → What’s the ideal way to serve?
Slice and serve warm with marinara or garlic aioli for dipping. Add a simple salad or roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain the crust.