Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are a delightful fusion of classic flavors and modern dietary preferences. This dish captures the essence of the traditional Philly cheesesteak—succulent steak, sautéed vegetables, and melted provolone cheese—encased within tender green bell pepper halves instead of the customary bread roll. This innovative approach not only offers a gluten-free and low-carb alternative but also introduces a fresh, vibrant twist to a beloved classic.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 3 green bell peppers
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 (8-ounce) container baby bella (cremini) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces flank steak, trimmed of fat and thinly sliced against the grain into bite-sized strips
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 6 slices Sargento® Ultra Thin sliced provolone cheese, halved
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the green bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the ribs and seeds.
- In a large stockpot over high heat, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Place the pepper halves, two at a time, in boiling water for 2 to 4 minutes. Repeat with the remaining peppers. Use tongs to carefully remove the peppers from water and place open side down on paper towels to drain excess water.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms, red bell pepper, onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion and peppers have softened.
- Add the thinly sliced flank steak to the skillet. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and cook for 2 to 4 minutes. Flank steak should still be slightly pink in the middle or at an internal temperature of 120ºF for medium-rare, 130ºF for medium.
- Place the green bell pepper halves open side up in a baking dish. Line the inside of each pepper half with ½ slice of provolone cheese.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer ½ cup of the flank steak mixture to each bell pepper half.
- Top each pepper with the remaining ½ slice of provolone cheese.
- Bake the peppers for 10 minutes in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted.
Nutrients
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Calories: Approximately 155 per stuffed pepper half
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 18g
Why Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers Are So Popular
The Philly cheesesteak has long been a favorite in American cuisine, originating in Philadelphia in the 1930s. The sandwich typically consists of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables, all nestled in a soft roll. While the traditional version remains beloved, many people today are looking for ways to enjoy their favorite flavors in a healthier form. Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers provide the perfect solution. They eliminate the bread while still delivering all the rich, savory flavors of a classic cheesesteak.
Stuffed peppers are a great way to bring creativity into your meals. Not only do they make for a visually stunning dish, but they also allow for endless customization. The combination of a tender and flavorful filling with the crispness of bell peppers creates a satisfying contrast in texture. This recipe takes that concept to the next level by filling the peppers with a cheesesteak-inspired filling that’s both indulgent and nutritious.
Health Benefits of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
One of the major advantages of this recipe is its health benefits, especially when compared to the traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich. By using bell peppers as the base, you’re already cutting out the high carbs from the bread, making it a great option for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. The peppers themselves are low in calories and rich in vitamins like vitamin C, which supports immune health, and vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. The fiber in the peppers also aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.
Flank steak is another health-conscious choice in this dish. It is a lean cut of beef that provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. It’s also relatively low in fat compared to other cuts of beef, making it a great choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake. Moreover, by using minimal oil and incorporating fresh vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and red peppers, you’re adding a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to a balanced diet.
Additionally, provolone cheese, though rich and creamy, is used in moderation to add flavor without overpowering the dish. You can also opt for a reduced-fat version if you’re looking to cut down on the saturated fat content. These small adjustments allow you to enjoy a cheesesteak-inspired dish without all the extra calories and fat found in a traditional sandwich.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are not only a great weeknight dinner but also make for a fantastic dish to serve during casual get-togethers or even more formal meals. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or looking for a delicious option to bring to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress. The vibrant colors of the peppers, combined with the deliciously savory filling, make for an eye-catching and appetizing meal that looks as good as it tastes.
These stuffed peppers are also versatile. While the recipe calls for flank steak, you can easily swap it out for other types of protein, such as chicken, turkey, or even plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. You can also adjust the level of spice by adding more peppers or seasoning it with a bit of hot sauce or chili flakes. The stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for meal prep. Simply reheat them when you’re ready to eat for a quick, hassle-free meal.
The Versatility of Stuffed Peppers
One of the great things about stuffed peppers is their versatility. They can be customized to suit different dietary needs, flavor preferences, and even what you have in your kitchen. While this recipe is inspired by the Philly cheesesteak, you could take the concept and make it your own. For example, you could use ground beef or ground turkey for a slightly different texture, or add in additional vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even corn for a more colorful and diverse filling.
You can also play around with different types of cheese. Provolone is traditional, but you could also use mozzarella, cheddar, or even a combination of cheeses to create your ideal flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, and this recipe is a great foundation for experimenting with different ingredients. The stuffed peppers can be baked to perfection, ensuring that the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender but still retain some of their natural crispness.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own, but you can pair them with a variety of sides to round out the meal. A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the richness of the peppers nicely. You could also serve them with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or even a cauliflower mash for a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are great for meal prep. You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to assemble the peppers, simply stuff them with the prepared filling and bake. You can also bake the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat them in the oven or microwave until they’re hot and the cheese is melted.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and healthy twist on the traditional Philly cheesesteak, offering all the savory flavors without the carbs and heaviness of a sandwich. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, gluten-free meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, bringing it to a party, or prepping it for the week ahead, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.