Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is perfect for those seeking a healthy yet delicious meal. These colorful stuffed peppers are filled with flavorful ground beef and fluffy brown rice, making them a fantastic choice for family dinners, meal prep, or even potlucks. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various proteins or vegetarian options, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious stuffed peppers ready for the oven in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of ground beef, spices, and cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that appeals to all taste buds.
• Versatile Meal Option: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences, making this recipe adaptable for any dietary need.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and vegetables, stuffed bell peppers provide a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Provides the right environment for cooking your stuffed peppers evenly.
• Large pan: Ideal for sautéing your ingredients together to build flavor.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing and breaking up meat without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

To create these savory stuffed bell peppers, gather the following 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)

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 a rimmed tray.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Cook the Beef

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika.
* Cook until 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 peppers are mostly tender, about 10–12 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over each pepper.
* Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

These easy stuffed bell peppers can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, there are plenty of options!

With a Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the savory flavors of the stuffed peppers.

Over Quinoa or Rice

• Serve the stuffed peppers over a bed of quinoa or rice for added texture and nutritional benefits.

Paired with Garlic Bread

• A slice of warm garlic bread complements the dish well, providing a satisfying crunch alongside each bite.

Accompanied by a Tangy Dipping Sauce

• Consider offering a tangy dipping sauce, such as tzatziki or ranch, for guests who enjoy extra flavor.

Garnished with Avocado Slices

• Adding fresh avocado slices on top brings creaminess and additional nutrients to your plate.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Perfecting your easy stuffed bell peppers is simple with these tips. Follow them to elevate your dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor profile significantly. Opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh parsley.
• Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. Add more paprika for heat or swap in herbs like basil for variety.
• Avoid Overstuffing: Ensure you don’t overfill the peppers. This allows even cooking and prevents spills during baking.
• Pre-cook Peppers: Blanching bell peppers before stuffing can soften them slightly, ensuring they cook evenly in the oven.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try different proteins like ground turkey or even plant-based alternatives for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Pairing easy stuffed bell peppers with the right sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options!

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy side that offers crunch and pairs well with savory flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring out their natural sweetness.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crisp texture that complements the softness of stuffed peppers.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat alongside stuffed peppers.
5. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables makes a great side dish full of flavor.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a hearty addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be fun, but there are common pitfalls when making easy stuffed bell peppers that you should watch out for.

• Bold ingredient selection: Using low-quality or old ingredients will affect the taste of your dish. Always choose fresh bell peppers and quality ground beef for the best flavor.

• Bold uneven cooking: Not properly preheating your oven can lead to unevenly cooked peppers. Make sure your oven is fully preheated at 375°F before placing the stuffed peppers inside.

• Bold overstuffing: Packing too much filling into the peppers can cause them to burst. Fill each pepper generously but leave a little room at the top for expansion during cooking.

• Bold neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can result in bland flavors. Taste your mixture before stuffing the peppers and adjust seasoning as needed.

• Bold skipping the cheese: Omitting cheese may lead to a less satisfying dish. For optimal flavor, make sure to sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Wrap individual stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, place peppers on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes until hot, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, covering until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the easy stuffed bell peppers recipe.

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

Yes! You can substitute lean ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb based on your preference.

What can I use instead of rice in this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be great alternatives if you’re looking for something different or lower in carbs.

How do I know when my stuffed peppers are done?

Stuffed peppers are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, usually taking about 10-12 minutes after stuffing.

Can I make these easy stuffed bell peppers vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just replace the meat with beans, lentils, or additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

What’s the best way to serve easy stuffed bell peppers?

They pair wonderfully with a light salad or steamed veggies on the side for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

This easy stuffed bell peppers recipe is not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you use lean meats or go vegetarian, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try today!