Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that has been passed down through generations and brings everyone together around the dinner table. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the savory filling make it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these stuffed peppers are a go-to for many reasons!

Plus, the best part is how adaptable they are. You can easily switch up the fillings based on what you have in your pantry or cater to various dietary preferences. Trust me; once you make these stuffed peppers, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these colorful peppers, making it an easy way to get them excited about veggies.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the stuffing in advance and just bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavorful and Filling: The combination of ground beef and brown rice creates a hearty meal that satisfies everyone.
• Customizable: Use different proteins or add extra veggies to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that pack both flavor and nutrition. Gather these treasures before you start cooking!

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 Cups 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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative with your ingredients! Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the Protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Go Vegetarian: Substitute meat with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian filling.
• Add More Veggies: Mix in chopped zucchini or diced carrots into the meat mixture for extra nutrition.
• Change Up the Cheese: Use mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for different flavors.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your stuffed peppers will bake evenly and come out perfectly tender by the time you’re ready to enjoy them.

Step 2: Prepare Your Peppers

Place the 7 large bell peppers cut side up into a baking dish or rimmed tray. This creates little boats ready to be filled with all that delicious goodness!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add in the diced onion and sauté until it softens—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. This step is crucial as it releases their natural sweetness, creating a flavorful base for your filling.

Step 4: Cook the Meat

Next, add 1 pound of lean ground beef to your pan. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink—about 5-6 minutes. Once cooked, stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Let this simmer until slightly reduced; this helps develop deep flavors in our stuffing.

Step 5: Season & Stuff

Taste your mixture and season with kosher salt and pepper according to your preference. Now comes the fun part—spooning that hearty filling into each pepper! Pack them generously because who doesn’t love a full pepper?

Step 6: Bake & Finish

Bake your stuffed peppers for about 10-12 minutes until they’re mostly tender. Then sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese over each one and pop them back into the oven for another 5-7 minutes until melted and bubbly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers! They’re not just food; they’re an experience filled with warmth and comfort—just like home should feel!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Making stuffed bell peppers can be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Choose Colorful Peppers: Opt for a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a vibrant presentation. Each color brings its own sweetness and flavor, making the dish visually appealing and delicious.

• Don’t Overstuff: While it might be tempting to pack the filling tightly, leaving a little room allows the peppers to cook evenly and prevents them from bursting during baking.

• Pre-cook Your Filling: Cooking the filling before stuffing ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully. This step also reduces the overall cooking time, leading to perfectly tender peppers.

• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped zucchini or spinach into your filling for added nutrition and moisture. They blend well with the other ingredients while boosting the dish’s health factor.

• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices and herbs according to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give your stuffed peppers an extra kick if you love some heat!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Serving stuffed bell peppers is not only about deliciousness but also about creating an inviting meal experience. Here are some ideas to make your serving more delightful.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
• Avocado Slices: Offering slices of avocado on the side adds a rich texture and healthy fat that pairs wonderfully with stuffed peppers.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty peppers.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy side dish is packed with protein and complements the stuffed bell peppers beautifully without overwhelming them.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or asparagus bring additional flavors and textures while keeping things healthy.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread makes for a perfect accompaniment, providing a comforting touch to your meal that everyone will love.

Enjoying your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers will surely be a hit at any gathering or family dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious, hearty meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• After cooking, let the stuffed peppers cool completely.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen peppers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350 F and place the peppers in a baking dish.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave on medium power for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones regarding this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe!

Can I use other types of meat for this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Feel free to get creative!

How do I ensure my stuffed bell peppers are not soggy?

To avoid sogginess, make sure to only use cooked rice that has been cooled. Additionally, pre-baking the peppers for a few minutes before stuffing them can help reduce excess moisture.

Can I make this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, quinoa, or a store-bought meat alternative. You can also add extra veggies for added flavor and nutrition.

How long do these stuffed bell peppers last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe as much as I do! This dish is not only packed with delicious flavors but also offers flexibility to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinners or meal prepping for busy weekdays, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!