Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed bell peppers are a wholesome and satisfying meal made with tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of meat, rice, and vegetables. They are baked to perfection, creating a dish that is both comforting and visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for stuffed bell peppers is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It can be prepared ahead of time, customized with different fillings, and adjusted to suit various dietary needs. The peppers add a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory filling, while baking ensures a tender yet firm texture. This dish is also a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meal without sacrificing flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bell peppers (any color)

• Ground beef or ground turkey

• Cooked rice

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Tomato paste

• Olive oil

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Dried oregano

• Paprika

• Grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened.

4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

5. Add ground beef or turkey, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

6. Stir in tomato paste, cooked rice, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Mix well.

7. Spoon the filling into each bell pepper until full.

8. Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and sprinkle grated cheese on top.

9. Add about 1/4 cup of water to the bottom of the baking dish to keep the peppers moist.

10. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

11. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and slightly golden.

12. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Use quinoa instead of rice for a higher protein, gluten-free version.

• Replace beef with lentils or beans for a vegetarian option.

• Add diced mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to the filling for extra vegetables.

• Use different cheeses such as feta or pepper jack for a flavor twist.

• Try mini bell peppers for appetizer-sized servings.

storage/reheating

Store leftover stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat from the fridge, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the peppers from becoming soggy?

Avoid overbaking and do not add too much liquid to the baking dish.

Can I make stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the peppers a day in advance, then bake them when ready to serve.

Should I cook the peppers before stuffing them?

It is not necessary, but pre-baking them for 10 minutes can make them softer if desired.

What is the best rice to use?

Long-grain white rice or brown rice works well, but you can also use quinoa or couscous.

Can I freeze cooked stuffed peppers?

Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months when wrapped and stored properly.

Can I use leftover meat for the filling?

Yes, shredded chicken, turkey, or beef can be mixed with rice and vegetables for a quick filling.

What cheese works best for melting?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack are great options for a melty topping.

Can I make them low-carb?

Yes, replace rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Can I make them spicy?

Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the filling for extra heat.

Do I need to cover them while baking?

Covering them for the first half of baking helps retain moisture and prevents the cheese from burning.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic, versatile dish that combines the sweetness of peppers with a flavorful, hearty filling. They are easy to prepare, customizable to suit different tastes and diets, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With simple ingredients and a comforting flavor profile, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen

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