Introduction
Transform ordinary bell peppers into an unforgettable meal with this recipe! We’re taking the classic Philly cheesesteak and giving it a fun, flavorful twist by stuffing it inside juicy bell peppers and wrapping the whole thing in crispy bacon. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it combines the savory goodness of a Philly cheesesteak with the sweetness of bell peppers and the irresistible crunch of bacon. It’s a complete meal in one, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s super easy to customize – feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add your favorite veggies!
Key Ingredients
- 🫑 4 large bell peppers (any color!)
- 🥓 8 slices bacon
- 🥩 1 lb thinly sliced steak (sirloin or ribeye work great)
- 🧅 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 🧀 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🍄 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 1 tbsp olive oil
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
3️⃣ In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4️⃣ Add the onions, mushrooms, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes more.
5️⃣ Season the steak mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
6️⃣ Fill each pepper half with the steak mixture.
7️⃣ Sprinkle generously with provolone and cheddar cheese.
8️⃣ Wrap each stuffed pepper with two slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
9️⃣ Place the bacon-wrapped peppers in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the bacon is crispy.
🔟 Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don’t have provolone, you can substitute with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
- To make cleanup easier, line your baking dish with foil.
Heat Control
Using a medium-high heat for cooking the steak ensures a nice sear without burning it. The oven temperature of 375°F (190°C) cooks the peppers through without drying them out and crisps the bacon perfectly. Keep an eye on your peppers and adjust baking time as needed depending on your oven.
Crunch Factor
The crunch comes from the perfectly crisped bacon wrapping each juicy pepper. The slight bite of the onions and mushrooms adds another layer of textural interest against the soft peppers and melting cheese.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For faster cooking, partially cook the peppers in the microwave for a few minutes before stuffing and baking.
- Use pre-cooked bacon bits for an even quicker meal.
- Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the steak mixture for extra flavor.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
These stuffed peppers make a fantastic gift! Bake them in individual ramekins for easy portioning and presentation. You could also pack them in a pretty tin or basket with a side of your favorite dipping sauce.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Philly: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the steak mixture for a kick.
🌟 Mediterranean Twist: Substitute feta cheese for provolone and add chopped Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
🌟 Southwestern Style: Use Monterey Jack cheese, add diced jalapeños and corn to the filling, and top with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.
🌟 BBQ Bacon Cheesesteak: Use BBQ sauce instead of olive oil and add a layer of BBQ sauce after stuffing and before adding the bacon, and top with crispy onions!
Troubleshooting
- Peppers are burning: Reduce the oven temperature or cover the baking dish loosely with foil.
- Bacon isn’t crispy: Increase the oven temperature slightly or broil the peppers for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Filling is dry: Add a tablespoon or two of water or beef broth to the filling before baking.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen peppers? No, fresh bell peppers are best for this recipe.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving.
- What kind of steak is best? Sirloin or ribeye work well, but you can use any thinly sliced steak you like.
- Can I substitute the cheese? Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite melting cheeses.
- Are these peppers suitable for meal prepping? Yes! These are perfect for meal prepping as they reheat well.
Conclusion
These Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers are a guaranteed hit! They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and bursting with flavor. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think – we’d love to see your creations! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!