Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish that brings flavor and nutrition to your table. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even potlucks, these stuffed peppers stand out with their versatility. Whether you prefer lean ground beef, turkey, chicken, or vegetarian options, this recipe caters to all tastes. With its simple preparation and delicious filling, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, these stuffed peppers are a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Versatile Filling Options: Customize your filling with different meats or go vegetarian for a meat-free option.
• Great for Meal Prep: Prepare a batch ahead of time and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun presentation and tasty flavors, making it an ideal dish for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, gather your tools in advance. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and provides a place to hold all the peppers as they bake.
• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing the onions and browning the meat evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for breaking up meat without scratching your pans.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 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)

For the Peppers

• 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)

Topping

• 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 Onions and Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Sauté 1 medium onion until it softens.
Add 2–3 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 1 minute more.

Step 3: Cook the Meat Mixture

Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan.
Cook until no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon (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 sauce slightly reduces (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 peppers are mostly tender (about 10–12 minutes).

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle each stuffed pepper evenly with 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese.
Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes 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 be a delightful experience, enhancing the flavors of this dish. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Fresh Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the hearty stuffed peppers perfectly.

Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up any delicious juices from the stuffed peppers.

Rice or Quinoa

• A side of fluffy rice or quinoa can add extra texture and help balance the flavors of the dish.

Roasted Vegetables

• Pair your stuffed peppers with seasonal roasted vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that contrasts well with the savory filling.

Sliced Avocado

• Fresh avocado slices provide a creamy element that enhances the overall taste of the meal.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

To ensure you create the best Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers, follow these helpful tips for perfection every time.

• Choose ripe bell peppers: Select firm, vibrant bell peppers for optimal flavor and texture in your dish.
• Cook rice al dente: Slightly undercooked rice will absorb flavors during baking without becoming mushy.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the overall taste and brings the filling to life.
• Layer flavors: Consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder for a unique twist on classic stuffed peppers.
• Bake covered first: Covering your dish with foil during baking helps retain moisture and softens the peppers.
• Let them rest: Allow stuffed peppers to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Complementing your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with tasty sides can round out your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and tanginess, balancing the richness of stuffed peppers.

2. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn pairs well with savory dishes, providing a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.

3. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are a filling side that everyone loves.

4. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing refreshes your palate after each bite of pepper.

5. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad tossed with veggies and Italian dressing offers a satisfying coolness alongside hot peppers.

6. Steamed Broccoli
   Nutritious steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits while complementing the meal’s flavors.

7. Baked Beans
   Sweet and savory baked beans bring an extra layer of flavor, making your meal hearty and fulfilling.

8. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad can provide a sweet finish to your meal, balancing out savory tastes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your easy Stuffed Bell Peppers, avoiding common mistakes will make a big difference in the final dish.

• Using raw meat: Always cook the ground meat before stuffing the peppers. This ensures it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Overfilling the peppers: Stuffing them too tightly can lead to spills during baking. Leave a little space at the top for expansion.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the filling properly can result in bland flavors. Be sure to taste and adjust spices as needed.
• Not pre-cooking rice: Using uncooked rice means it won’t be ready when the peppers are done. Always use cooked rice for best results.
• Neglecting to check doneness: Peppers should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them while they bake to reach the perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• You can freeze unbaked or baked stuffed peppers.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best results. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one pepper on a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water, place the pepper inside, cover, and steam until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making easy Stuffed Bell Peppers.

What is an easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe?

An easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe features bell peppers filled with seasoned ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and cheese, baked until tender.

Can I use different meats in my stuffed peppers?

Yes! You can substitute lean ground beef with turkey, chicken, sausage, or even vegetarian options like lentils or quinoa for a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe?

You can customize by adding different vegetables, herbs, or spices based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with various cheeses as well!

How long do easy Stuffed Bell Peppers take to cook?

They typically take around 30 minutes total—10-12 minutes after stuffing and then an additional 5-7 minutes after adding cheese.

Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead of time and either refrigerate them for baking later or freeze them for future meals.

Final Thoughts

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are not only cheesy and delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fillings according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or meal prepping for the week, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 7

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Description

Discover the delightful taste of Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers, a comforting dish that combines cheesy goodness with wholesome ingredients. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or even gatherings with friends. Each colorful bell pepper is generously filled with a savory mixture of lean ground beef, cooked brown rice, and zesty spices, then topped with melted cheddar jack cheese. Not only are these stuffed peppers delicious, but they are also incredibly versatile—customize them with your favorite proteins or go vegetarian! In just about 40 minutes, you can create a nutritious meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 7 large bell peppers
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1½ cup cooked brown rice
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until soft.
3. Add ground beef to the pan; cook until browned.
4. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings; simmer briefly.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and place them in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes until peppers are tender; add cheese on top and bake an additional 5–7 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper (approximately 230g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg