# Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli – Gooey, Meaty & Bursting with Flavor!
There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty meal that combines all the flavors you love in one delicious package. Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy, golden crust, only to reveal a warm filling of tender, seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and the satisfying crunch of sautéed vegetables. That’s the magic of a **Philly cheesesteak stromboli**! This decadent dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes fond memories of bustling Philadelphia streets filled with the delightful aroma of sizzling meat and melted cheese.
In this article, you’re going to learn how to create your very own Philly cheesesteak stromboli — a perfect blend of two classic dishes that promise to be a hit at your next family dinner or game day gathering. Trust me, once you make this easy, cheesy delight, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
What is Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli?
**Philly cheesesteak stromboli** is a delicious twist on the traditional cheesesteak sandwich, wrapping all that flavorful goodness in a warm, golden crust. Traditionally, a cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese (often provolone or Cheez Whiz), and sautéed onions and peppers. In this stromboli version, you combine these ingredients, roll them up in pizza dough, and bake until deliciously golden.
Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures: the crispness of the crust followed by the flavorful, gooey filling. The intense flavor of the seasoned beef combined with the assertive cheesiness makes this dish utterly irresistible. You’ll find that this recipe not only packs in bold flavors but also unleashes a satisfying aroma that fills your kitchen, making it hard to wait for your first slice!
Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli
– **Quick and Easy:** This dish comes together in under an hour and is simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. You can even prepare the filling ahead of time!
– **Family-Friendly:** Kids and adults alike go wild for this hearty meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize according to your family’s preferences.
– **Perfect for Meal Prep:** Make a couple of these bad boys over the weekend, slice them up, and have quick lunches or snacks ready for the week.
– **Comforting and Satisfying:** The combination of meat, cheese, and dough delivers a warm, comforting feeling that makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
– **Bursting with Flavor:** From the savory beef to the melty cheese and sautéed vegetables, each bite is a flavor bomb in your mouth.
– **Great for Parties:** Need to impress your guests at your next gathering? This stromboli is easy to share and can be a star on your appetizer platter.
– **Versatile:** Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding different types of cheeses or vegetables to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Philly cheesesteak stromboli:
– **1 pound thinly sliced beef steak:** Use ribeye or sirloin for the best flavor. Look for quality cuts in your butcher’s counter.
– **1 tablespoon olive oil:** For sautéing. You can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
– **1 medium onion, sliced:** Adds sweetness when caramelized.
– **1 bell pepper, sliced:** Choose red, yellow, or green for a pop of color.
– **1 cup provolone cheese, shredded:** This cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor. You can also use mozzarella if you prefer.
– **1 cup Cheez Whiz:** This iconic Philly ingredient adds creaminess and authentic flavor.
– **1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade):** Store-bought is quick and easy. Make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use.
– **Salt and pepper, to taste:** Essential for seasoning the beef and veggies.
– **1 egg, beaten:** For brushing on top of the stromboli before baking, giving it a beautiful golden finish.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli
Follow these steps to create your own Philly cheesesteak stromboli that both you and your family will adore!
1. **Preheat your oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that crunchy crust while ensuring your filling is heated through.
2. **Cook the beef and vegetables:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking them for about 5 minutes until they soften. Add the thinly sliced beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the meat is nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. **Mix the filling:** In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and vegetable mixture with shredded provolone cheese and Cheez Whiz. The heat from the beef will help melt the cheese together, making the filling creamy and gooey.
4. **Prepare the dough:** Roll out the pizza dough onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Aim for a rectangular shape, about 12×16 inches. Use your fingers to gently stretch the dough to fit the desired shape without tearing.
5. **Fill the dough:** Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the center of the dough, leaving a 1-2 inch border around the edges. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly along the length of the dough.
6. **Roll up the stromboli:** Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching and sealing the seams as you go. You want to create a tight roll, making sure there are no gaps for the filling to ooze out during baking.
7. **Prepare for baking:** Transfer the rolled stromboli to the baking sheet seam-side down. Brush the top with the beaten egg to create a golden crust while baking. Optionally, you can use a sharp knife to make a few slashes in the top to allow steam to escape.
8. **Bake to perfection:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and perfectly crisp.
9. **Cool and slice:** Once baked, remove the stromboli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it into generous pieces and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like a tangy marinara or a creamy ranch.
Expert Tips, Tricks & Variations
– **Make it Your Own:** Feel free to mix up the cheese! Try using sharp cheddar or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
– **Vegetarian Version:** Substitute beef with portobello mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative to make a delightful vegetarian stromboli.
– **Add More Veggies:** Try adding sliced mushrooms or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
– **Storing Leftovers:** Keep any leftover stromboli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best results.
– **Make it Saucy:** For an extra flavor boost, serve with a side of homemade garlic aioli or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who love heat.
What to Serve With Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli
This delicious Philly cheesesteak stromboli can be paired with several sides that complement its hearty nature. Here are a few ideas:
1. **Crispy French Fries:** The salty crunch of fries is a classic pairing that balances the richness of the stromboli.
2. **Simple Side Salad:** A light, refreshing salad with tangy vinaigrette can provide a perfect contrast to the heavy filling.
3. **Sautéed Veggies:** Add some color to your plate with a side of sautéed broccoli, asparagus, or even green beans drizzled in lemon.
4. **Dipping Sauces:** Try serving your stromboli with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or a zesty ranch dip to complement each slice.
5. **Coleslaw:** The crunchiness and acidity are perfect to cut through the gooey, meaty goodness!
Storage, Freezing & Meal Prep
Once your Philly cheesesteak stromboli is made, it can be stored or frozen for later enjoyment.
– **Storing Leftovers:** Cool any leftover stromboli completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days.
– **Freezing:** The stromboli can be frozen before cooking – just wrap tightly in plastic and foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Alternatively, freeze leftovers in a similar manner, and they’d be ready in about 30-40 minutes when reheating from frozen.
– **Meal Prep:** Prepare the filling ahead of time! You can cook it a day in advance and assemble the stromboli the day of serving. This is a fantastic way to streamline your cooking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?**
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a quick and easy way to jump into this delicious dish. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out for better texture.
**2. What meat should I use for the filling?**
Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin are popular choices for an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you could also use chicken or turkey breast.
**3. How do I prevent the stromboli from leaking?**
Make sure to seal the edges of the dough tightly and avoid overfilling it. Trim any excess dough if necessary. Slashing the top will help steam escape and prevent pressure from building up inside.
**4. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?**
Yes! The filling can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for a day in advance. When ready to use, just warm it slightly before assembling your stromboli.
**5. How do I reheat leftovers?**
To reheat leftover stromboli, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the stromboli on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed throughout and the crust is crispy again.
The rich, gooey goodness of this Philly cheesesteak stromboli will transport you right to the streets of Philadelphia, bite by delicious bite. Whether you’re enjoying it with family, friends, or just indulging on your own, this dish will surely bring smiles and satisfied appetites.
Now it’s your turn—grab your ingredients and create this magic in your kitchen tonight! Don’t forget to tag me when you try it, and let me know how much you loved it!
[Read also: Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe]
