Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together flavorful ground beef and fluffy brown rice. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a healthy and satisfying meal. The unique feature of these stuffed peppers is their versatility; you can use lean ground beef, turkey, chicken, sausage, or even vegetarian ingredients to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This easy stuffed bell peppers recipe takes only 10 minutes of prep time, making it a great choice for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef, spices, and veggies ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Customizable Options: You can easily adapt this recipe to include your favorite proteins or make it vegetarian for diverse dietary preferences.
- Healthy Ingredients: With brown rice and plenty of vegetables, this dish provides a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These stuffed peppers are excellent for meal planning, as they store well and can be reheated easily.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect easy stuffed bell peppers, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Essential for holding the stuffed peppers while they cook evenly in the oven.
- Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing onions and garlic before adding the meat mixture.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for breaking up the meat while cooking, ensuring an even texture in your filling.
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 your baking dish by placing the 7 Large Bell Peppers, cut side up.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sauté 1 Medium Onion (diced) until it softens.
Add 2-3 Garlic Cloves (minced) and cook for about one minute more.
Step 3: Cook the Meat Mixture
Add 1 pound Lean Ground Beef to the skillet.
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: Season and Reduce the 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 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 an additional 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 is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these peppers are versatile and can be paired with various sides and garnishes.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor.
- Basil or Cilantro: These herbs can introduce a unique twist to your dish.
Pair with Dipping Sauces
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the flavors beautifully.
- Salsa: Adds a zesty kick that complements the stuffed peppers.
Serve with Grains
- Quinoa: A nutritious alternative that pairs well with the hearty filling.
- Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous works as an excellent base for your stuffed peppers.
Create a Salad Plate
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad provides a crunchy contrast to the softness of the peppers.
- Coleslaw: The tangy flavor of coleslaw can enhance your meal’s overall taste profile.
Offer Bread Options
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra juices from the peppers.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls make for an excellent addition to your meal.
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 Firm Peppers: Selecting firm, ripe bell peppers will prevent them from becoming mushy during cooking.
- Don’t Overstuff: Leave some space at the top of each pepper; this allows room for expansion while baking.
- Pre-cook Rice Thoroughly: Ensure your brown rice is fully cooked before mixing it into the filling for even texture.
- Season Generously: Taste your filling mixture before stuffing to adjust salt and spices; this enhances overall flavor.
- Use Cheese Wisely: Sprinkle cheese on top but also mix some into the filling for added creaminess and flavor.
- Cover While Baking: Covering with foil during the first part of baking helps steam the peppers, making them tender.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Complementing your easy stuffed bell peppers with delicious side dishes makes for a complete meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy and buttery garlic bread enhances any meal.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons adds freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings color and flavor.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs complements the stuffed peppers nicely.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrients and balances the richness of the dish.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges serve as a satisfying side that everyone loves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Underseasoning the filling: A bland mixture will lead to tasteless peppers. Always taste your filling before stuffing.
- Not cooking the rice properly: If the rice is undercooked, it won’t absorb flavors well. Ensure you use fully cooked brown rice for the best results.
- Ignoring pepper size: Using small peppers may result in insufficient filling. Stick with large bell peppers to hold a generous amount of stuffing.
- Overcooking or undercooking peppers: Peppers should be tender but not mushy. Bake them just until they soften for perfect texture.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven: Starting with a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Wrap individual peppers tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes, checking regularly.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe:
Can I use different types of meat?
You can absolutely use turkey, chicken, or even sausage instead of ground beef for this recipe.
How do I make vegetarian stuffed bell peppers?
Replace ground beef with black beans or lentils and add extra vegetables like corn or zucchini.
What is the best way to serve stuffed bell peppers?
Serve them warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. They pair well with a side salad or crusty bread.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time; just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
The Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile! Customize your stuffing based on your preferences—switch up proteins or add your favorite vegetables. It’s an easy weeknight meal that delights everyone at the table. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, a comforting dish that combines savory ground beef, fluffy brown rice, and fresh vegetables all nestled inside vibrant bell peppers. This recipe is ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions, offering a healthy yet satisfying meal option that can be customized to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you opt for lean ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian filling, these stuffed peppers are sure to please everyone at the table. Topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh herbs, they are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Enjoy a wholesome dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 7 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
- 7 Large Bell Peppers
- 1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice
- 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes
- 1 Medium Onion
- 2-3 Garlic Cloves
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
- Olive Oil, Spices, Salt & Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté diced onion until soft; add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper; simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and place them cut side up in a baking dish.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until peppers are tender.
- Top with shredded cheese and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
