Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish that appeals to everyone. This recipe combines flavorful ground beef and fluffy brown rice, making it a healthy choice for family dinners or meal prep. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a weeknight meal, these stuffed peppers are versatile and easy to customize. They can be made with various proteins, ensuring that they cater to different dietary preferences while remaining delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: You can use ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options to suit your taste.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
• One-Pan Meal: The bell peppers not only serve as a container but also add flavor to the overall dish.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it an ideal choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this easy stuffed bell peppers recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Essential for holding the stuffed peppers while they bake evenly.
• Large pan: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and browning meat without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Cheesy and savory, easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are made with flavorful ground beef and fluffy brown rice for a healthy recipe! These stuffed peppers are the best because they can be made with either lean ground beef, sausage, turkey, chicken, or vegetarian 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 rimmed tray.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Cook the Meat

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in:
* 1½ cup cooked brown rice
* 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
* 1 tablespoon tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 2 teaspoons paprika
Cook until the sauce is slightly reduced, 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 for about 10–12 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Sprinkle evenly with 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese over each pepper.
Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes more. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Serving easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can be as creative as the recipe itself. Here are some fun and tasty ways to enjoy this dish:

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed with a light vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of stuffed peppers.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing add a delightful contrast to the hearty stuffed peppers.

Add Some Crunch

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips on the side for a satisfying crunch that balances the softness of the peppers.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread can be a great addition, offering a comforting carb to round out your meal.

Go for a Grain Side

• Quinoa: This light and nutritious grain can be served alongside or even mixed into the stuffing for extra texture.
• Couscous: Fluffy couscous is another excellent choice that absorbs flavors well and adds a bit of sophistication to your plate.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Perfecting your easy Stuffed Bell Peppers is all about technique and ingredient quality. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season your filling well. The flavors should be robust enough to stand up against the sweetness of the bell peppers.
• Cook rice properly: Cook your brown rice ahead of time for optimal fluffiness. Undercooked rice can lead to mushy peppers.
• Choose ripe peppers: Select firm, brightly colored bell peppers for the best flavor and texture. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.
• Don’t overstuff: Fill each pepper generously, but avoid overpacking them. This allows them to cook evenly without bursting.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Complementing your easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with delicious side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and a pop of color without overpowering the main dish.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs can pair beautifully with the stuffed peppers, making for a hearty meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides an earthy balance to the savory stuffed peppers.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the cheese in the stuffed peppers.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter makes for a sweet side that pairs well with savory flavors.
6. Baked Potatoes: Simple baked potatoes topped with sour cream or cheese provide comfort and make the meal more filling.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar can cleanse the palate between bites of rich stuffed peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious dish, but common errors can detract from your meal. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using uncooked rice: If you add uncooked rice directly to the filling, it won’t cook properly inside the pepper. Always use cooked brown rice for the best texture.
• Overstuffing the peppers: Stuffing too much filling into each pepper can lead to spills and uneven cooking. Fill each pepper until it’s generously full, but don’t overdo it.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoned filling can result in bland stuffed peppers. Taste your mixture and adjust the salt and spices before stuffing.
• Skipping the cheese topping: Cheese adds flavor and a delightful gooey texture. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference in taste!
• Neglecting to preheat the oven: Starting with a cold oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Wrap individual stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish covered with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a stuffed pepper on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best meat for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

You can use lean ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even sausage. Each option brings its own unique flavor.

Can I make these stuffed bell peppers vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute meat with cooked lentils or beans for a delicious vegetarian version of this easy stuffed bell peppers recipe.

How do I prevent the bell peppers from becoming soggy?

Make sure not to overcook them before baking. A quick bake will help maintain their firmness while they absorb flavors from the filling.

How long does it take to cook Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers?

The total cooking time is around 30 minutes after preparation, which includes both baking times for stuffing and melting cheese.

Final Thoughts

This easy stuffed bell peppers recipe is not only cheesy and savory but also offers great versatility. You can customize it by using different proteins or adding extra vegetables based on your preferences. Give this delightful dish a try—it’s sure to impress family and friends!

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: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 7

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Description

Get ready to savor the cheesy goodness of Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers! This delightful dish combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy brown rice, and vibrant bell peppers for a healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, these stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also customizable to fit any dietary preference. Whether you choose to fill them with turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian blend, this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing experience. With just 40 minutes of preparation and cooking time, you’ll have a colorful, nutritious dish that the whole family will love!

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive 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 (canned)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 7 large bell peppers (top and core removed)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté diced onion until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Incorporate ground beef into the pan and cook until browned, breaking it apart as needed.
4. Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until slightly reduced.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
6. Bake for approximately 10–12 minutes until the peppers are tender.
7. Remove from oven, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper (approx. 240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg