Philly Cheesesteak Cheesy Breadsticks

This hearty Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Cheesy Breadsticks recipe brings together everything you love about a Philly cheesesteak – tender, juicy steak, caramelized veggies, and loads of gooey, melted mozzarella cheese – all wrapped in golden, buttery breadsticks. Every bite bursts with savory steak, sweet sautéed onions, and peppers, held together by a blanket of warm, stretchy cheese.

I first made these breadsticks for a last-minute Super Bowl party, and they disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Now they're requested at practically every gathering I host, and I've perfected the recipe through countless batches.

Ingredients

• Flank steak: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites
• Onion and bell pepper: For authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor and natural sweetness
• Mushrooms: Add umami depth and extra juiciness to the filling
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that perfect stretchy pull when you take a bite
• Pizza dough: Forms the perfect vessel – look for refrigerated dough for convenience
• Butter: Melted for that golden brown exterior that makes these irresistible
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty bite that complements the filling beautifully
• Garlic powder: For aromatic flavor that takes these breadsticks to the next level

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 375°F and gather all tools including a large skillet, baking sheet, rolling pin, and pastry brush. Roll out pizza dough into a large rectangle about 1/4-inch thick on a lightly floured surface. The even thickness ensures consistent baking and makes folding easier later.

Cooking the Filling:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add thinly sliced flank steak and sear for 2-3 minutes until browned but still juicy. The quick cooking keeps the meat tender rather than tough. Add sliced onions, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the same pan with the steak. Sauté everything together for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften and begin to caramelize. Season with salt and black pepper, then remove from heat and let cool slightly so it doesn't melt your cheese too quickly during assembly.

Assembling the Breadsticks:

Slice your dough rectangle into 2-inch wide strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Spoon the steak and vegetable mixture down the center of each strip, leaving about half an inch on all sides for sealing. Add a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese over the filling on each strip. The cheese acts as both flavor and glue to hold everything together. Roll each strip carefully around the filling, pinching edges firmly to seal. Place seam-side down on a greased baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for expansion.

Baking and Finishing Touches:

Brush each breadstick generously with melted butter for richness and color. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor. Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown with melted cheese. The breadsticks should be firm enough to hold but still tender when bitten. For extra crispiness, broil for the final 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning. Let cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.

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My family goes crazy for the caramelized onions in this recipe. I learned from my grandfather, who worked at a Philly diner for thirty years, that cooking the onions slowly with the steak juices creates a depth of flavor that can't be rushed. Those sweet, savory onions make all the difference between a good breadstick and an unforgettable one.

Storage and Prep Ahead

These breadsticks maintain their flavor and texture surprisingly well when stored properly. Place completely cooled breadsticks in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in foil, then collected in a freezer bag for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw refrigerated breadsticks at room temperature for 30 minutes before reheating in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

Customization Ideas

The basic recipe is delicious as written, but think of it as a template for endless variations. For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. Craving something Mediterranean? Swap the steak for chopped chicken and add sun-dried tomatoes and olives. Vegetarian friends will love a version stuffed with sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms and spinach with extra cheese to bind everything together. The dough itself can be flavored too – try brushing with garlic butter or sprinkling with everything bagel seasoning before baking.

Perfect Pairings

These breadsticks truly shine when served with complementary sides and dips. A classic marinara sauce offers tangy contrast to the rich, savory filling. Ranch dressing provides cooling creaminess that balances the bold flavors perfectly. For a complete meal, pair with a crisp green salad dressed simply with vinaigrette – the fresh, acidic elements cut through the richness of the breadsticks. On game day, serve alongside other finger foods like buffalo wings and veggie platters for a crowd-pleasing spread that satisfies every craving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of steak?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak with ribeye, sirloin, or even pre-cooked roast beef for convenience. Each offers a slightly different flavor and texture.

→ What cheeses work well in this dish?

Mozzarella is ideal for its stretchiness, but you can mix in provolone or cheddar to enhance flavor and richness.

→ How do I get the breadsticks golden and crispy?

Brush the dough with melted butter and bake at 375°F. For extra crisp, turn on the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the breadsticks a few hours in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake when ready to serve.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these breadsticks?

Marinara is a classic choice, but cheese sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli work well too.