The Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is a delightful twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, designed for outdoor enthusiasts and campers. This hearty sandwich combines the rich flavors of roast beef, provolone cheese, sautéed bell peppers, and onions, all nestled within a loaf of French bread. Wrapped in foil and cooked over a campfire, it offers a convenient and delicious meal that brings the taste of a traditional Philly cheesesteak to the great outdoors. Whether you’re camping or simply seeking a unique meal at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 loaf of French bread
2 tablespoons butter
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 white onion, sliced
1 pound sliced roast beef (deli or homemade)
8 slices provolone cheese
1 tablespoon garlic powder
Aluminum foil

Directions

In a small cast iron skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced green bell pepper and onion, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Mix the remaining 1/4 cup of butter with the garlic powder to create garlic butter.
Slice the loaf of French bread into 1-inch slices, ensuring not to cut all the way through to the bottom.
Butter the inside of every second slice with the prepared garlic butter.
Place a spoonful of the sautéed bell pepper and onion mixture into every second slice.
Stuff each opening with several slices of roast beef.
Top the roast beef with a slice of provolone cheese.
Wrap the entire loaf in aluminum foil, ensuring it is tightly sealed.
Place the foil-wrapped loaf near hot coals of a campfire (not directly in the fire) or on a grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Carefully remove from heat, unwrap, and slice between the filled sections to serve.

Nutritional Facts

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Calories: 574 kcal
Protein: 26 g
Fat: 31 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Sodium: 908 mg
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 5 g
Cholesterol: 74 mg

The Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly cheesesteak’s origins can be traced back to the streets of Philadelphia in the 1930s. This legendary sandwich was created by Pat Oliviero, who first sold the steak sandwiches from his cart. The sandwich quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple of Philadelphia’s culinary landscape. Traditionally, the Philly cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, usually rib-eye, topped with melted cheese, and served in a long, soft hoagie roll. Variations include adding onions, mushrooms, and peppers, along with different types of cheese, such as Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese.

While the classic version has its roots in Philly, its popularity has spread far beyond the city, with various adaptations and new interpretations emerging in different parts of the country. The campfire version of the Philly cheesesteak brings this beloved sandwich outdoors, creating an entirely new and fun way to enjoy it, especially for those who appreciate cooking over an open flame.

The Campfire Twist on the Classic

One of the most exciting elements of the Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is the creative use of the campfire or grill for cooking. Cooking food over an open flame not only infuses it with a smoky flavor but also brings a sense of adventure and connection with nature. The method of wrapping the sandwich in aluminum foil helps retain the moisture and flavors inside, ensuring that each bite is juicy, warm, and delicious. The result is a gooey, cheesy, and slightly crispy sandwich that feels like a comfort food indulgence.

The campfire aspect of this sandwich makes it ideal for camping trips, where traditional kitchen tools may be unavailable. The sandwich can easily be prepared with minimal equipment, relying on a cast iron skillet and some aluminum foil. Additionally, this recipe can be cooked on a grill, making it a great choice for backyard barbecues or any outdoor cooking scenario.

Why Choose the Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich?

The Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich stands out for several reasons. First, it offers a delicious and satisfying meal that is packed with flavors. The combination of sautéed bell peppers, onions, and tender roast beef makes for a hearty and comforting filling. The provolone cheese adds a melty, creamy texture that binds the ingredients together, while the garlic butter enhances the sandwich’s overall taste, giving it a rich, aromatic flavor.

Moreover, this recipe provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor cooking enthusiasts to try something different. Instead of the usual camping meals like hot dogs or burgers, the Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich introduces a higher level of culinary enjoyment while still being simple to prepare. The hands-on experience of assembling the sandwich and cooking it over a campfire or grill adds to the enjoyment, making it an interactive and memorable meal. For those with dietary preferences, the sandwich can be customized to fit different needs, such as using gluten-free bread or opting for different types of cheese.

Another reason to consider this sandwich is its versatility. While it is ideal for camping, the recipe can also be adapted for use at home on a grill or in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic option for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even a fun meal for the kids. Whether you’re cooking in the great outdoors or in your own backyard, the Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich offers a unique way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best aspects of the Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is its flexibility. Though the original recipe uses roast beef and provolone cheese, the filling can easily be customized to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations and customizations to consider:

Vegetarian Option: For those who prefer a meatless version, the roast beef can be substituted with grilled portobello mushrooms or a plant-based alternative like vegan beef or tofu. This creates a satisfying vegetarian Philly cheesesteak without sacrificing flavor.
Cheese Choices: While provolone is a traditional choice for a Philly cheesesteak, other cheeses can be used for different flavor profiles. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese can be substituted based on personal preferences.
Add-ins and Toppings: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients. Sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or roasted garlic can add extra depth of flavor. For a more decadent sandwich, consider adding a drizzle of barbecue sauce or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Bread Alternatives: While French bread is the typical choice, other types of bread, such as hoagie rolls, baguettes, or even ciabatta, can work well. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to make the sandwich your own by changing the ingredients to fit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.

Tips for Cooking the Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Cooking over a campfire or grill requires some extra care to ensure the sandwich cooks evenly and doesn’t burn. Here are some helpful tips for perfecting your Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich:

Temperature Control: Avoid placing the sandwich directly in the flames, as this can cause the bread to burn before the filling is properly heated. Instead, cook it near the coals or on a cooler part of the grill to ensure it cooks evenly.
Aluminum Foil Wrapping: Make sure the sandwich is tightly wrapped in foil to keep the heat in. This helps melt the cheese and warm the sandwich without drying it out.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the sandwich while it cooks. Depending on the heat source, it typically takes about 10-15 minutes to achieve the desired result. You want the bread to be slightly crispy on the outside while the inside remains warm and melty.

Conclusion

The Campfire Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich offers a delicious and creative take on a classic American dish, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking to elevate their camping meals. Its rich and savory filling, coupled with the smoky flavor from cooking over an open flame, creates a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and memorable. The recipe’s versatility ensures that it can be customized to fit a wide variety of tastes, making it a dish everyone can enjoy.

0 Shares