If you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak but want to cut down on the carbs, you’ll love these Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers! This simple recipe combines all the flavors of a traditional cheesesteak—savory beef, melted cheese, and sautéed veggies—packed into delicious bell peppers for a healthier, low-carb twist. Perfect for an easy dinner or meal prep, these stuffed peppers are not only tasty but also keto-friendly.
Why Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers?
Stuffed peppers are a versatile, nutrient-packed dish, and the Philly cheesesteak flavors take them to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s low-carb or something unique to serve at a gathering, these peppers are a perfect solution. Plus, they’re easy to make, budget-friendly, and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
- 3 Bell Peppers (any color of your choice)
- 1 lb. Ground Beef
- 8 oz. Mushrooms (chopped)
- 1 Onion (chopped)
- 2 tbsp. Ketchup
- 1 tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 8 oz. Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat.
- Prepare the Bell Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set the hollowed peppers aside for stuffing later.
- Cook the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion. Stir frequently, breaking up the beef until it’s browned and the onion is softened.
- Add Mushrooms and Seasoning: Once the beef is browned, stir in the chopped mushrooms and let them cook down for a few minutes. Then add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer the mixture until the liquid is mostly absorbed (about 10-15 minutes).
- Stuff the Peppers: Place the bell peppers in a baking dish. Carefully spoon the beef mixture into each pepper until they are fully stuffed.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of each stuffed pepper.
- Bake the Stuffed Peppers: Tent a piece of aluminum foil over the baking dish to prevent the cheese from burning. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy! Let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness of your Philly cheesesteak stuffed peppers!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Customize the Cheese: While mozzarella cheese gives a nice creamy melt, you can switch it up with provolone or cheddar for a more traditional Philly cheesesteak flavor.
- Meat Alternatives: If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works just as well in this recipe.
- Extra Veggies: For added crunch, toss in some chopped green peppers or spinach with the beef mixture.
- Make It Spicy: Want to add a kick? Throw in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed peppers are naturally low in carbs, making them a great keto-friendly meal. Here are a few tips to keep them extra low-carb:
- Use Sugar-Free Ketchup: Opt for sugar-free ketchup to keep the carbs down without sacrificing flavor.
- Skip the Worcestershire Sauce: If you’re concerned about hidden sugars, leave out the Worcestershire sauce or replace it with coconut aminos.
- Cheese Choices: Stick with high-fat, low-carb cheese options like provolone or cheddar for the perfect keto cheese pull.
Variations on Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
- Vegetarian Version: You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Add more veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or ground chicken. The result is a lighter, yet equally delicious, stuffed pepper option.
- Cheesesteak Stuffed Pepper Casserole: For a deconstructed take, chop the peppers into bite-sized pieces, layer them with the beef mixture and cheese in a casserole dish, and bake as a casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peppers and beef mixture in advance and refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to bake, simply stuff the peppers, add the cheese, and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the peppers and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers?
Yes! After baking, allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely. Wrap each one individually in foil or plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
3. How do I reheat stuffed peppers?
To reheat, simply place the stuffed peppers in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in 1-2 minute intervals until warm.
4. What can I serve with Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers?
These stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own, but you can serve them with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a fuller meal. For a keto-friendly side, consider pairing them with cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower.
5. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Provolone is the traditional cheese used in Philly cheesesteaks, so it’s a great alternative to mozzarella. You can also experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a different flavor.
A Simple and Delicious Low-Carb Meal
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are not only easy to make but also a delicious and healthy option for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheesesteak without the bread. This recipe is perfect for low-carb or keto dieters, busy weeknight dinners, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. With minimal ingredients and plenty of room for customization, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again!
Give these stuffed peppers a try and experience the amazing flavors for yourself. They’re cheesy, hearty, and sure to satisfy your cravings without the carbs!
