Description
Cheesy Ground Beef & Pepper Hoagie
A mouthwatering, cheesy hoagie stuffed with savory ground beef, sautéed bell peppers, and melted cheese, all tucked into a perfectly toasted bun.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 orange bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
4 hoagie rolls
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup provolone cheese, sliced
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions:
Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add the Veggies:
Stir in the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender but still slightly crisp.
Season:
Add Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Prepare the Hoagie Rolls:
Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, leaving one side intact. Lightly toast them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes for extra crispness.
Assemble:
Spoon the beef mixture generously into the rolls. Top with shredded mozzarella and provolone slices.
Melt the Cheese:
Place the assembled hoagies back in the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side like fries, chips, or a fresh salad.
Pro Tip:
For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of garlic butter inside the hoagie rolls before toasting. It’ll add a delicious buttery crunch!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed process for perfect hoagies every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your skillet, brown the ground beef until no pink remains, then drain the fat. Next, add the olive oil, bell peppers, onion, and garlic, sautéing until they are softened but retain a slight bite. This texture is key. Now, season the mixture with Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for two more minutes. While that simmers, prepare your rolls by slicing them open and toasting them lightly in the preheated oven for 2-3 minutes. For the pro tip’s garlic butter, mix softened butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt, spreading it inside the rolls before toasting. Finally, fill the toasted rolls, top with cheeses, and bake for 5 minutes to achieve melty perfection.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty hoagie is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with classic sides. For a casual dinner, serve with crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or a handful of kettle-cooked potato chips. To balance the richness, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette is excellent. For a crowd-pleasing game-day spread, cut the hoagies into smaller sections and serve alongside other finger foods like wings and vegetable sticks with ranch dip.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Brown and drain ground beef. Sauté peppers, onion, and garlic with the beef. Season with Worcestershire sauce and spices. Lightly toast split hoagie rolls. Fill rolls with the beef mixture, top with mozzarella and provolone cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well. Adjust cooking times as needed and consider adding a touch more seasoning for leaner meats.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Incorporate diced jalapeños with the bell peppers, use a spicy cheese blend, or increase the red pepper flakes. A dash of hot sauce in the beef mixture also adds great heat.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store the filling and rolls separately. Reheat the beef mixture in a skillet and assemble fresh to prevent soggy bread. For pre-assembled hoagies, reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven to maintain crispness.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the beef and vegetable mixture completely, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before assembling and baking.
What are good cheese substitutes?
Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a sharp cheddar are fantastic alternatives. For a stronger flavor, try grated Parmesan or Asiago in the mix.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best result: First, do not skip draining the excess grease from the beef, as it can make the filling overly greasy and the rolls soggy. Second, avoid overcooking the vegetables; they should be tender-crisp to add texture. Third, do not under-toast the rolls initially, as a sturdy base is needed to hold the juicy filling. Finally, do not overstuff the hoagies, as this makes them difficult to eat and can cause the filling to spill out during baking.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef & Pepper Hoagie is a triumph of simple, satisfying flavors. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily create a restaurant-quality sandwich at home. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for a quick family dinner or for feeding a hungry crowd. With the right preparation and by avoiding common errors, you’ll achieve a deliciously crispy, cheesy, and savory hoagie that is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!