Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion! These vibrant stuffed peppers are loaded with flavorful ground beef and fluffy brown rice, making them a healthy meal option. They can easily be customized to suit your dietary needs, whether you prefer lean meats, turkey, chicken, or vegetarian alternatives. This recipe is not only simple but also packed with flavor, ensuring everyone at your table will love it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these stuffed peppers can be ready in about 40 minutes.
- Versatile Filling Options: You can swap out the ground beef for sausage, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Nutrient-Packed: With bell peppers filled with protein and fiber, this dish is both filling and nutritious.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; they reheat well!
Tools and Preparation
To make the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pan
- Baking dish or rimmed tray
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pan: Perfect for sautéing the onions and browning the meat evenly.
- Baking dish or rimmed tray: Holds the stuffed peppers securely while they bake until tender.
- Wooden spoon: Great for breaking up meat while cooking without scratching your pans.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
– 1 Medium Onion (diced)
– 2-3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
– 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
– 1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice
– 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can)
– 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
– 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
– 2 teaspoons Paprika (see notes)
– Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
– 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)
– 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
– Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the 7 Large Bell Peppers, cut side up, into a baking dish or a rimmed tray.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Sauté 1 Medium Onion (diced) until it softens.
Stir in 2-3 Garlic Cloves (minced) and cook for about 1 minute more.
Step 3: Cook Ground Beef Mixture
Add 1 pound Lean Ground Beef to the pan.
Cook until no longer pink, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon for about 5-6 minutes.
Stir in 1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice, 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes, 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste, 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano, and 2 teaspoons Paprika.
Step 4: Simmer Sauce
Cook until the sauce is slightly reduced, about 4-5 minutes.
Taste and season with Kosher salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Stuff the Peppers
Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture.
Bake until the peppers are mostly tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese evenly over each pepper.
Bake for another 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Serving Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- A crisp garden salad with mixed greens can complement the flavors of the stuffed peppers while adding freshness.
Add a Side of Rice
- Serving with additional brown rice or quinoa can enhance the meal’s heartiness and provide extra nutrients.
Drizzle with Hot Sauce
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of hot sauce can add an exciting kick to each bite.
Garnish with Extra Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or cilantro on top for added flavor and a colorful presentation.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- A nice piece of crusty bread can be perfect for dipping into any leftover filling or sauce on your plate.
How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
To make sure your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and herbs will enhance flavor and nutritional value.
- Cook Rice Ahead: Prepare the brown rice in advance for a quicker assembly process.
- Don’t Overcook the Peppers: Bake until just tender to maintain their shape and texture.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix in vegetables, beans, or different proteins based on your preference.
- Taste Before Baking: Always taste the filling before stuffing; adjust seasoning as needed for the best flavor.
- Let Them Rest: Allow stuffed peppers to sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can complete your meal beautifully. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread pairs well with the savory flavors of stuffed peppers.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy peppers.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and carrots bring color and nutrition to your plate.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the stuffed peppers nicely while providing a crisp texture.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a delightful addition that balances out the savory flavors of the dish.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that pairs well with soft stuffed peppers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks face challenges when preparing the easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Ignoring pepper selection: Choosing the wrong type of bell peppers can affect the flavor. Always select fresh, firm peppers for the best results.
- Overcooking the filling: Cooking the filling too long can dry it out. Aim for a moist mixture before stuffing the peppers.
- Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step leads to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
- Filling too generously: Overstuffing can cause the filling to spill out while cooking. Use just enough filling to fill each pepper without overflowing.
- Forgetting about seasoning: Under-seasoned filling can make your stuffed peppers bland. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before stuffing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Tips: Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before placing them in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Tips: Wrap individual stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat stuffed peppers on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, covering until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe that might help you.
How do I customize my Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?
You can add different proteins like chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options such as quinoa or lentils for variety.
Can I make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the stuffed peppers and store them in the fridge before baking. Bake them when you’re ready to enjoy.
What other ingredients can I use with Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?
Feel free to include vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or switch up cheeses based on your preference.
Are there any dietary modifications for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?
You can easily adjust this recipe by using lean meats, plant-based proteins, or gluten-free grains like quinoa.
Final Thoughts
The easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various fillings and toppings to suit your taste preferences. Whether you stick with classic ground beef or experiment with vegetarian options, these stuffed peppers will surely satisfy your cravings. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe today!
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of lean ground beef, fluffy brown rice, and a medley of spices, creating a nutritious meal that the whole family will love. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is quick to prepare and can be customized to fit various dietary preferences, from vegetarian options to different proteins like turkey or chicken. Serve them as a stand-alone dish or pair them with fresh salads and crusty bread for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 7
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 7 large bell peppers
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1½ cups cooked brown rice
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté diced onion until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the peppers start to soften.
- Sprinkle cheese on top and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper (approx. 227g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
