Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: Low-Carb, Flavorful, and Easy

If you’re a fan of the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich but want a healthier, low-carb version that retains all the delicious flavors, look no further than Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers. These stuffed peppers deliver the savory taste of tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions and bell peppers, all packed into sweet, roasted bell peppers. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even as a gluten-free option, this recipe is as versatile as it is satisfying.

Stuffed peppers are a classic dish in their own right, but when you combine them with the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, you get something truly special. Whether you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, or simply looking for a fun and creative way to enjoy the tastes of your favorite cheesesteak without the bread, this dish will become a new staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers Recipe

This recipe takes the rich, hearty flavors of a cheesesteak and makes them healthier without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

1. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly

By using bell peppers in place of bread, this dish cuts down on carbohydrates while still providing the indulgent flavors of beef, cheese, and sautéed vegetables. The bell peppers add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory filling, and because they’re baked to tender perfection, they serve as the perfect low-carb vessel for the cheesesteak filling.

2. Packed with Flavor

Even though these stuffed peppers are lighter than a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich, they don’t skimp on flavor. The combination of sautéed onions, green peppers, and thinly sliced beef creates a savory filling, while melted provolone or mozzarella cheese adds the creamy richness that cheesesteak lovers crave.

3. Customizable and Versatile

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to make it your own based on your taste preferences and dietary needs. Want to make it spicier? Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Prefer mushrooms? Sauté them with the beef and vegetables for an added depth of flavor. Whether you use a different type of cheese or swap out the beef for ground turkey, this dish is easy to customize.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are ideal for meal prep. You can make a batch in advance, store them in the fridge or freezer, and reheat them for a quick, delicious dinner or lunch. Plus, the dish stays just as flavorful when reheated, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers

To make this delicious, low-carb version of a Philly cheesesteak, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 large bell peppers (any color—green, red, yellow, or orange)
1 lb thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin work best for authentic cheesesteak flavor)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (for the filling)
1 cup provolone cheese, shredded (you can also use mozzarella, cheddar, or American cheese)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for an extra flavor boost)
Optional: 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (for added texture and flavor)

These ingredients come together to create a filling that’s savory, cheesy, and loaded with the same flavors as a classic Philly cheesesteak.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers

1 – Step : Prepare the Bell Peppers

Cut and Clean the Peppers:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your large bell peppers and slice off the tops, removing the seeds and membranes from inside. If your bell peppers don’t sit upright, slice a small piece off the bottom to make a flat surface, but be careful not to cut all the way through. This will ensure they stand upright in the baking dish.
Bake the Peppers:
Before filling the peppers, place them in a baking dish, cut side up, and bake for 10-12 minutes. This pre-bake softens the peppers slightly, ensuring they cook evenly once stuffed. The goal is to get the peppers tender without making them too soft, as they still need to hold the filling.

2 – Step : Sauté the Beef and Vegetables

Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced beef and season it with salt and pepper. Cook the beef for about 4-5 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. If you prefer, you can also add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce at this stage for an extra punch of umami flavor. Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions, green bell pepper, and optional mushrooms. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and caramelized. The onions should turn golden and fragrant, while the bell pepper and mushrooms add a savory depth to the filling.
Combine the Beef and Vegetables:
Once the vegetables are sautéed, return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Mix everything together and let the flavors meld for 1-2 minutes. Turn off the heat and prepare to stuff the peppers.

3 – Step : Stuff and Bake the Peppers

Fill the Peppers:
Evenly divide the beef and vegetable mixture among the four pre-baked bell peppers, filling each one to the top. Pack the filling down gently to ensure the peppers are filled completely.
Add the Cheese:
Top each stuffed pepper with a generous layer of shredded provolone or your cheese of choice. Provolone is the classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks, but mozzarella, cheddar, or American cheese work just as well for a gooey, melty topping.
Bake the Stuffed Peppers:
Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender but still holding their shape.

4 – Step : Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers

Once the peppers are done baking, let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color, and serve the stuffed peppers hot. These Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are hearty enough to serve as a main dish on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes.

Recipe Variations for Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few creative ways to customize your Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers:

Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers

If you enjoy spicy food, give these stuffed peppers a little heat by adding sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the beef and vegetable filling. You can also top the peppers with pepper jack cheese instead of provolone for an extra kick.

Mushroom Lover’s Philly Stuffed Peppers

For those who love mushrooms, feel free to add extra mushrooms to the filling. Sauté them with the onions and bell peppers to bring out their earthy, umami flavor. Mushrooms add a hearty, meaty texture that complements the beef beautifully.

Extra Cheesy Stuffed Peppers

For cheese lovers, you can make this dish even more indulgent by mixing shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the beef and vegetable mixture before stuffing the peppers. You can also double the amount of cheese on top, creating a golden, bubbly crust.

Ground Beef or Ground Turkey Variation

If you don’t have thinly sliced beef on hand, ground beef or ground turkey can be used as a substitute. Brown the ground meat in the skillet before adding the vegetables. This variation is just as delicious and offers a slightly different texture.

Different Cheese Options

While provolone is the classic choice for Philly cheesesteak, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Mozzarella adds a creamy texture, cheddar brings sharpness, and pepper jack adds spice. You can even mix different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers

For a vegetarian version, skip the beef and double up on the vegetables. Use a combination of mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and zucchini to create a flavorful veggie-packed filling. You can also add crumbled tofu or a meat substitute like seitan for extra protein.

Serving Suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers are flavorful and filling on their own, but here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

Serve with a Fresh Salad

A simple garden salad or Caesar salad pairs beautifully with these cheesy stuffed peppers. The freshness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the beef and cheese. A lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing would work well to balance the flavors.

Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

For an extra indulgent touch, serve the stuffed peppers with garlic bread or soft dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for soaking up any juices from the peppers and adds a comforting, starchy element to the meal.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini is a great way to add more nutrients to the meal. Simply toss the veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until caramelized and tender. The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables complements the savory stuffed peppers perfectly.

Mashed Cauliflower

If you’re looking for a low-carb side dish, mashed cauliflower is a fantastic alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the mashed cauliflower pairs wonderfully with the stuffed peppers and keeps the meal light and healthy.

Dipping Sauces

Elevate the flavors by serving your stuffed peppers with a variety of dipping sauces. Garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or even more Worcestershire sauce can add extra layers of flavor to each bite.

Storing and Reheating Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers

One of the great things about this recipe is that it stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The stuffed peppers retain their flavor and texture when reheated, making them a convenient option for a quick lunch or dinner.

Freezing the Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers also freeze well, making them ideal for make-ahead meals. To freeze, wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw the peppers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating the Stuffed Peppers

To reheat, place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, but be aware that the cheese may not melt as evenly.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional content for each Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Pepper:

Calories: 350-400 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
Fat: 20-25 grams
Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
Protein: 25-30 grams

These stuffed peppers are low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making them a filling and satisfying meal for anyone following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are a delicious, healthy twist on the classic cheesesteak, offering all the savory flavors you love in a low-carb, veggie-packed dish. By using bell peppers as the vessel instead of bread, you cut down on carbs while still enjoying the rich, cheesy goodness of a traditional cheesesteak. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something hearty and comforting, these stuffed peppers will not disappoint.

With endless customization options—from adding mushrooms to making it extra cheesy or even swapping the beef for turkey—this recipe is versatile enough to suit any dietary preference. So go ahead and give it a try—you’ll love the flavor-packed, satisfying meal that comes together in just a few simple steps.

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: A Low-Carb Twist on a Classic