Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a delicious mix of ground beef and fluffy brown rice, making them a hearty option for family dinners or meal prep. This recipe stands out because it allows for flexibility in ingredients, enabling you to customize it with lean ground beef, turkey, or even vegetarian substitutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a savory blend that everyone will love.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vegetables, these stuffed peppers make a nutritious meal choice.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute proteins or add your favorite veggies to make it your own!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the essential tools before starting. Having the right equipment can save time and ensure better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Large pan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking while holding the stuffed peppers upright.
• Large pan: Provides ample space for sautéing onions and browning the meat effectively.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up meat while cooking without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create these tasty stuffed bell peppers:

For the Filling

• 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)

For the Peppers

• 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

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 F. Arrange the 7 large bell peppers cut side up into a baking dish or a rimmed tray.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté 1 medium onion until it softens. Add in 2-3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Cook the Beef Mixture

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. Then stir in:
1. 1½ cup of cooked brown rice
2. 14.5 ounces of diced tomatoes
3. 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
4. 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
5. 2 teaspoons of paprika

Cook this mixture until slightly reduced, about 4-5 minutes. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Carefully stuff each pepper with the beef mixture. Bake until the peppers are mostly tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle each pepper evenly with 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese. Return them to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy your easy stuffed bell peppers!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette complements the savory stuffed peppers.
• Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the flavors.

Add a Side of Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra filling or sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls make for a comforting addition to the meal.

Top with Extra Garnish

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides creaminess and tang.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices add richness and healthy fats.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

To ensure your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers turn out perfectly delicious, consider the following tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and meats make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Peppers: Bake until just tender; this keeps the peppers from becoming mushy.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences; try adding cumin or chili powder for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and stuff the peppers later for quick baking when you’re ready.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Pairing your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that complements the stuffed peppers beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing offers freshness.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while being simple to prepare.
4. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous tossed with vegetables creates a flavorful base that pairs well with stuffed peppers.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of sweetness and is perfect for summer meals.
6. Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries offer a fun, healthier alternative to traditional fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and versatile dish, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when preparing your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe.

• Boldly overcooking: Cooking the peppers for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture by monitoring the baking time closely.
• Skipping seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget to taste your filling and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs before stuffing the peppers.
• Using uncooked rice: If you use uncooked rice in your filling, it will soak up moisture from the peppers and may turn out hard. Always use pre-cooked rice for better results.
• Choosing the wrong pepper size: Using small or irregularly shaped peppers can make stuffing difficult. Opt for large, uniform bell peppers for even cooking and easier handling.
• Ignoring cheese options: Not considering different cheese types can limit flavor variety. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added taste.
• Forgetting about leftovers: Leaving stuffed peppers uncovered in the fridge might dry them out. Store them properly in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Wrap individual stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a stuffed pepper on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, here are some frequently asked questions.

What ingredients can I substitute in the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

You can easily swap ground beef with turkey, chicken, or vegetarian alternatives like quinoa or lentils to suit your preference.

How long does it take to prepare the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

The total time includes 10 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick meal option.

Can I make the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers right before baking. This saves time during busy weeknights.

What side dishes pair well with Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers?

Serve these stuffed peppers with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is not only simple but also packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s perfect for meal prepping or enjoying on busy nights. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 7

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Description

Discover the joy of cooking with this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe! Bursting with flavor, these vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory blend of lean ground beef, fluffy brown rice, and aromatic spices. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, they can be customized to suit your taste with different proteins or veggies. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a nutritious meal that everyone will love. Whether served alongside a garden salad or garlic bread, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress at any table!

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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 cups cooked brown rice
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (canned)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 7 large bell peppers (tops and cores removed)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange bell peppers cut side up in a baking dish.
2. In a large pan over medium heat, warm olive oil. Sauté diced onion until softened; add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5-6 minutes). Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until slightly reduced.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture and bake uncovered for about 10-12 minutes until the peppers are tender.
5. Sprinkle cheese over each pepper and return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until melted.
6. Garnish with parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg