PHILLY CHEESESTEAK STUFFED PEPPERS

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Philly cheesesteaks are a beloved classic, known for their savory combination of beef, melted cheese, and a hearty, satisfying flavor.

But what if you could enjoy all those same flavors in a healthier, lower-carb, and equally delicious format? Enter Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers!

This innovative recipe swaps out the bread for colorful bell peppers, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Whether you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks or just love stuffed peppers, this recipe offers a creative and mouthwatering option that will satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

To create Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Stuffed Peppers:

3 Bell Peppers: Choose large, firm bell peppers that stand upright. Red, green, or yellow peppers all work well for this dish.

1 lb. Ground Beef: You can use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier version. Ground beef provides the rich, savory flavor that’s essential for a Philly cheesesteak-inspired dish.

8 oz. Mushrooms (Chopped): Mushrooms add a meaty texture and umami flavor, which makes them a great addition to the filling.

1 Onion (Chopped): Onions give the dish a slight sweetness and a savory undertone. You can use yellow or white onions, but red onions will add a touch of color and extra flavor.

2 tbsp. Ketchup: The ketchup adds a slight tang and sweetness to balance out the savory flavors of the beef and Worcestershire sauce.

1 tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce: A key ingredient in Philly cheesesteaks, Worcestershire sauce adds depth and richness to the beef filling.

1 cup Beef Broth: Beef broth helps to moisten the filling and gives it a rich flavor. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version.

8 oz. Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded): Mozzarella is the traditional cheese used in Philly cheesesteaks, adding a creamy, melty texture on top of the stuffed peppers.

Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, ensuring that the filling is well-seasoned and flavorful.

Optional Add-ins:

Garlic (Minced): If you want to add more depth of flavor, garlic pairs beautifully with the beef and mushrooms.

Provolone or Cheddar Cheese: If you prefer a different type of cheese, provolone or cheddar can be used in place of mozzarella for a sharper, more robust flavor.

Green Bell Peppers: If you want an even more “cheesesteak-style” dish, consider using green bell peppers, as they have a slightly bitter flavor that complements the richness of the beef.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the peppers cook evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

2. Prepare the Peppers:

While the oven is heating up, slice the tops off of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside.

Be sure to keep the peppers intact, as you’ll be stuffing them with the savory beef mixture later. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly to ensure the peppers can stand up on their own in the baking dish.

3. Cook the Beef and Veggies:

Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into crumbles as it browns. Once the beef is mostly browned, add the chopped onion and sauté for a few minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add the chopped mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they release their moisture and become tender. The mushrooms will add moisture to the filling, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful.

4. Add the Flavorings:

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has absorbed and the filling is thickened. You want the mixture to be moist but not too soupy.

5. Stuff the Peppers:

Once the filling is ready, spoon it into the prepared bell peppers, packing it in tightly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the stuffed peppers.

6. Bake:

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and tent a piece of aluminum foil over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. The peppers should be soft and tender, with the cheesy, beefy filling inside. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers:

Choose Sturdy Peppers: When selecting bell peppers, make sure they have a flat bottom so they stand upright in the baking dish. If needed, roll up some aluminum foil and place it under any peppers that are lopsided or leaning.

Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling by adding extra ingredients such as sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or jalapeños for a bit of heat. You could also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Make Ahead: These stuffed peppers can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil.

Add Garlic: For an extra burst of flavor, add minced garlic when you sauté the beef and vegetables. This will give your filling a rich, savory aroma that complements the mushrooms and onions.

Storage

If you have leftovers or want to make a large batch in advance, Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed peppers.

To freeze, wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat frozen peppers, bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes or until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are a hearty, satisfying meal on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides:

Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a simple vinaigrette will complement the rich, cheesy peppers.

Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or carrots for a well-rounded meal.

Garlic Bread or Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, pair your stuffed peppers with cauliflower rice or a slice of garlic bread.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers offer a fresh take on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. By swapping the bread for bell peppers, you create a healthier and more flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

The combination of ground beef, mushrooms, onions, and melted mozzarella cheese makes for a comforting, cheesy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to try something new or simply enjoy a lighter version of a Philly cheesesteak, these stuffed peppers will become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!