Cheesy and savory, this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these stuffed peppers are versatile and packed with flavor. Made with ground beef and fluffy brown rice, this recipe allows for various protein options, making it suitable for everyone. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and how delightful the results taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Customizable: Use your choice of protein—ground beef, turkey, or even vegetarian ingredients—to suit your dietary needs.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these flavorful stuffed peppers, making them a hit at the dinner table.
- Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and lean meat, this dish offers a balanced meal that’s satisfying without being heavy.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make extra servings and store them for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will make preparing the easy stuffed bell peppers a breeze.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and cooking the ground beef evenly.
- Baking dish: Provides ample space for stuffing and baking your bell peppers without overcrowding.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up meat while cooking and stirring ingredients together seamlessly.
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. Prepare a baking dish by placing the seven large bell peppers cut side up inside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sauté one medium onion until soft.
Add two to three minced garlic cloves and cook for about one more minute.
Step 3: Cook the Meat
Add one pound of lean ground beef to the pan.
Cook until no longer pink, using a wooden spoon to break up the meat for about five to six minutes.
Step 4: Mix in Other Ingredients
Stir in:
One and a half cups of cooked brown rice,
One can of diced tomatoes,
One tablespoon of tomato paste,
One teaspoon of dried oregano,
Two teaspoons of paprika.
Cook until the sauce slightly reduces, about four to five minutes.
Taste and season with kosher salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Stuff the Peppers
Fill each prepared pepper with the beef mixture.
Bake until peppers are mostly tender, approximately ten to twelve minutes.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over each stuffed pepper.
Bake for an additional five to seven 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. Their colorful presentation and savory flavors make them appealing for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.
With a Side Salad
- A fresh garden salad complements the stuffed peppers well, adding crunch and brightness to the meal.
Over Quinoa or Rice
- Serving your stuffed peppers over a bed of quinoa or rice enhances the meal’s heartiness and adds extra fiber.
With Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado slices on the side provide a rich texture that balances the flavors of the stuffed peppers.
Topped with Salsa
- Fresh salsa adds a zesty kick, enhancing the overall taste and making each bite even more exciting.
Paired with Cornbread
- The sweetness of cornbread contrasts nicely with the savory filling, creating a comforting combination.
How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
To ensure your easy stuffed bell peppers turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Choose fresh peppers: Select firm, vibrant bell peppers without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
Cook rice properly: Make sure your brown rice is fluffy and cooked al dente to avoid sogginess in your stuffing.
Season generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your beef mixture well; it’s essential for flavor.
Watch baking time: Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent overcooking; you want tender but not mushy peppers.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Pairing side dishes with easy stuffed bell peppers can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish well.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a warm touch to your table.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized enhances flavor and nutrition.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and contrast to the soft texture of the stuffed peppers.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and pair nicely with any meat dish.
Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with herbs and lemon provides a refreshing counterbalance.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color, nutrients, and a slight crunch that complements the meal beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks face challenges when making stuffed bell peppers. Avoiding common mistakes can lead to a more delicious result.
- Overcooking the Peppers: If you cook the peppers for too long before stuffing, they may become mushy. Pre-bake them just enough to soften slightly but retain their shape.
- Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your filling can result in bland peppers. Always taste your mixture and adjust with salt, pepper, or herbs.
- Using Raw Rice: If you use uncooked rice in your filling, it won’t fully cook inside the peppers. Make sure to use cooked rice for the best texture.
- Not Packing the Filling: Failing to pack the filling tightly can lead to uneven cooking. Fill each pepper generously and press down lightly to maximize stuffing.
- Choosing the Wrong Peppers: Using small or thin-skinned peppers may lead to difficulty in stuffing. Opt for large, thick-walled bell peppers that hold up during baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Freeze unbaked stuffed peppers individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
- For baked leftovers, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F and reheat uncovered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a lid for about 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this easy stuffed bell peppers recipe.
How can I customize my Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?
You can swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or sausage. For vegetarian options, try using beans or lentils as a protein source.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time. Keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I serve with stuffed bell peppers?
Stuffed bell peppers pair well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even quinoa for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I know when my stuffed bell peppers are done?
They are done when the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. A knife should easily pierce through the pepper skin.
Final Thoughts
This easy stuffed bell peppers recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it based on your preferences and ingredients on hand. Whether you’re craving something hearty or light, these stuffed beauties will surely delight your taste buds! Give them a try today!
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, a perfect harmony of cheesy goodness and savory filling. These delightful peppers are packed with lean ground beef, fluffy brown rice, and aromatic spices, making them ideal for family dinners or meal prep. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this versatile dish can be customized to satisfy every palate—choose from turkey, chicken, or vegetarian options. Enjoy the vibrant colors and satisfying taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 7
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 7 large bell peppers
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 ½ cups cooked brown rice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and arrange the bell peppers cut side up in a baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned. Mix in brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and paprika; season to taste.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and bake for 10-12 minutes until tender.
- Top with cheese and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
