Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe offers a delightful option for any meal. These stuffed peppers are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With their vibrant colors and hearty filling of ground beef and brown rice, they stand out as a delicious and healthy dish. Plus, you can easily customize the filling to suit different dietary preferences, making them a versatile choice for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in about 40 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Filling: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian mix to suit your taste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, these stuffed peppers are a wholesome meal option for health-conscious eaters.
• Kid-Friendly: With their cheesy topping and colorful appearance, kids will love these stuffed peppers!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious dish, gather your tools and make sure you’re ready to roll. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these easy stuffed bell peppers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish or rimmed tray
• Large pan
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Essential for holding the peppers during baking and ensuring even cooking.
• Large pan: Needed for sautéing ingredients thoroughly before stuffing the peppers.
• Wooden spoon: Great for breaking up the meat while cooking without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe:

Vegetables & Oil

• 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 Medium Onion (diced)
• 2-3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
• 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)

Meat & Grains

• 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
• 1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice

Canned Goods & Spices

• 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)

Toppings

• 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. While it heats up, prepare your bell peppers by placing them cut side up in a baking dish or on a rimmed tray.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pan over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Add 1 medium diced onion and sauté until soft. Stir in 2-3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan. Cook until no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon for about 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Stir in 1½ cups of cooked brown rice, one can of diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 2 teaspoons of paprika. Cook until the sauce is slightly reduced, about 4-5 minutes. Season with kosher salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

Stuff each prepared pepper with the beef mixture. Bake in the preheated oven until the peppers are mostly tender—about 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Remove from oven and sprinkle each pepper evenly with 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. 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. They are not only visually appealing but also versatile, allowing for various accompaniments that enhance their flavor.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the stuffed peppers.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Warm, crispy garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and enhances the meal’s savory aspect.

Serve with Quinoa

• Quinoa brings additional protein and nutrients, making your meal even healthier.

Accompany with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream on top offers a creamy contrast to the dish’s flavors.

Add a Side of Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli or green beans provide a fresh crunch and balance out the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Perfecting your easy stuffed bell peppers recipe can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out great every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and herbs give the best flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your filling before stuffing to ensure it has enough salt and spices.
• Don’t Overstuff: Be mindful not to overfill the peppers; they should fit snugly but not burst in the oven.
• Bake Until Tender: Check for tenderness; you want the peppers soft but still holding their shape.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try different proteins or grains like quinoa for variety in flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your easy stuffed bell peppers.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese pairs well with stuffed peppers.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes bring a comforting element to your dinner plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the savory flavors of the peppers.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is sweet and complements the dish nicely.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds another layer of flavor while keeping it simple.
6. Baked Zucchini Fries: These healthy fries provide a fun twist on traditional potato sides while being nutritious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your easy Stuffed Bell Peppers, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your filling adequately can make the dish bland. Always taste the mixture and adjust the salt and spices before stuffing the peppers.
• Overcooking the peppers: Baking them too long can lead to mushy peppers. Bake until they’re just tender, about 10-12 minutes, for a perfect texture.
• Using uncooked rice: If you add raw rice to the filling, it won’t cook properly during baking. Always use pre-cooked brown rice for best results.
• Not removing seeds and membranes: Leaving seeds inside can add bitterness. Make sure to clean out each bell pepper thoroughly before stuffing.
• Ignoring cheese options: Sticking only to cheddar limits flavor. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Freeze stuffed peppers for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a little water, cover, and heat over medium until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe:

Can I use different proteins in this easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even sausage.

How do I make these stuffed peppers vegetarian?

To create vegetarian stuffed bell peppers, replace the meat with black beans or lentils. Add more veggies like corn or zucchini for extra flavor.

What type of bell peppers are best?

Choose large, firm bell peppers that are ripe and fresh. Red, yellow, or green varieties all work well!

How long does it take to prepare this easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

The total time is around 40 minutes, with approximately 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or dietary needs. Whether you choose different proteins or add extra veggies, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table!