Stuffed Bell Peppers are a classic, comforting dish featuring tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and seasonings. They make for a wholesome and balanced meal that is sure to please the entire family. This versatile recipe can easily be customized to fit your preferences and dietary needs. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 6 bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse the peppers well. Place the peppers in a baking dish, cut-side up. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly to help them stand upright.
Cook the Filling
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Seasonings and Rice: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Add the cooked rice and mix until well combined.
Stuff and Bake the Peppers
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the meat and rice mixture into each bell pepper, filling them generously. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Par-Cook the Peppers: For extra tender peppers, par-cook them in boiling water for 5 minutes before stuffing.
- Adjust Spice Level: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use hot paprika in the filling.
- Cooked Rice: This recipe is a great way to use leftover rice. You can also use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
Variations
- Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers: Replace the ground meat with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version. You can also add extra veggies like corn or diced zucchini.
- Cheese Options: Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack, feta, or Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.
- Mexican-Style Stuffed Peppers: Add 1 teaspoon of cumin, a pinch of chili powder, and black beans to the filling for a Mexican-inspired variation. Top with salsa before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the stuffed peppers.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up any juices from the peppers.
- Yogurt or Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a nice creamy contrast to the savory filling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make Stuffed Bell Peppers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed peppers ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Peppers?
Absolutely. Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Rice?
If you want a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice. You can also substitute with cooked quinoa or bulgur wheat.
Stuffed Bell Peppers are a classic and comforting meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a hearty weeknight dinner or making them ahead for a stress-free meal, these stuffed peppers are packed with flavor and sure to satisfy. Gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this timeless dish with your family!
Happy Cooking!
