“Southwest Philly” Black Bean & Pepper Cheesesteak: Vegetarian-Friendly Recipe

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A spicy, savory twist on the classic cheesesteak, packed with black beans, sautéed peppers, melted pepper jack, and a creamy avocado crema—all nestled in a toasted hoagie roll.

Looking for a meatless Philly cheesesteak that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Southwest Black Bean & Pepper Cheesesteak recipe is a mouthwatering vegetarian twist on the classic sandwich. Loaded with protein-packed black beans, vibrant bell peppers, and spicy pepper jack cheese, it’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner or meatless meal prep idea. Topped with a creamy avocado crema and served on a toasted hoagie roll, this veggie-packed cheesesteak brings bold Tex-Mex flavor to your favorite comfort food. Whether you're following a vegetarian diet or just craving something new, this plant-based sandwich will hit the spot.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

🌱 Vegetarian-Friendly | Easy

⏱️ Total Cook Time: 35 minutes

🌯 For the Filling:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 small yellow or orange bell pepper, sliced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned & drained)

• 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (or more to taste)

• 4 hoagie rolls or sandwich buns

🥑 For the Avocado Crema:

• 1 ripe avocado

• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Juice of ½ lime

• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)

• Salt to taste

 Ingredient Alternatives

• Cheese: Use vegan pepper jack or dairy-free mozzarella

• Beans: Try pinto beans or lentils as substitutes

• Bread: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps

• Avocado Crema: Substitute hummus or a smoky chipotle aioli

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add bell peppers and onions; sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in corn and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Beans & Spices:

Add black beans, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Cook for 4–5 minutes, gently mashing some beans to thicken the mix slightly.

Tip Alert: Slightly mash the beans for better texture and to keep the filling from spilling

Step 3: Melt the Cheese:

Sprinkle cheese over the mixture in the skillet. Cover and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.

Toast the hoagie rolls lightly under a broiler or in a pan.

Tip Alert: Don’t skip toasting the roll—it prevents sogginess and adds crunch

Step 4: Make the Avocado Crema:

Blend avocado, sour cream/Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, and salt until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches:

Spoon the bean mixture into each roll, top with a generous dollop of avocado crema.

Optional: add jalapeños, lettuce, or hot sauce.

Perfect Pairings

• Beverage: Sparkling lime agua fresca, mango iced tea, or a chilled Mexican lager

• Side: Chili-lime tortilla chips, elote-style corn, or a cilantro-lime slaw

• Dessert: Coconut flan or churro bites with chocolate drizzle

This vegetarian Philly cheesesteak is a fun, flavorful way to spice up your dinner rotation. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s one of the best easy vegetarian sandwich recipes to keep on hand. Whether you're planning a meatless Monday, looking for a healthy lunch idea, or hosting a game day spread, this black bean and pepper cheesesteak delivers all the taste with none of the meat. Don’t forget to pin this recipe or share it with friends who love Tex-Mex fusion, plant-based comfort food, or simply great sandwiches!