This Steak-Stuffed French Bread is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Tender strips of steak are cooked with savory onions, bell peppers, and melted cheese, all stuffed into a crispy French bread loaf. It’s like a steak sandwich taken to the next level, full of flavor and easy to make. This recipe is great for sharing and is sure to impress anyone who loves a good, cheesy, and meaty dish.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 large French bread loaf
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the French Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the French bread loaf in half lengthwise, creating a top and a bottom half. Hollow out some of the inside bread to create space for the filling, being careful not to cut all the way through. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak and Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Return the steak to the skillet, add the Worcestershire sauce, and stir to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Bread
- Place the bottom half of the hollowed-out French bread on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spoon the steak and vegetable mixture evenly into the bread. Top with the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheese.
- Place the top half of the bread back on top to create a sandwich.
- Brush the top of the bread with the melted butter.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice the stuffed bread into portions and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Steak: For the most tender slices, cut the steak against the grain. This will help keep the meat tender and easier to chew.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or jalapeños, for additional flavor.
- Bread Choice: A sturdy French bread or baguette works best for this recipe, as it holds up well to the hearty filling.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese Substitution: Try using cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give the dish a bit of heat.
- Philly Cheesesteak Style: Use thinly sliced ribeye and add sautéed mushrooms for a Philly cheesesteak-inspired version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the steak and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, assemble the stuffed bread and bake as directed.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover stuffed bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use a different type of bread? A: Absolutely! You can use any type of sturdy bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta, for this recipe. Just make sure it’s large enough to hold the filling.
This Steak-Stuffed French Bread is a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for sharing. The combination of tender steak, savory vegetables, and melted cheese inside a crispy loaf of bread is irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a game day snack, or just because you’re craving something indulgent, this stuffed bread is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the incredible flavors packed into every bite!
