Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table, this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is just the ticket! These vibrant peppers are not only a feast for the eyes but also packed with flavor. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making it easy to serve a nutritious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can customize them based on your family’s preferences!

I love how these stuffed peppers bring everyone together, and each bite bursts with cheesy goodness and savory filling. Trust me; this recipe quickly becomes a favorite in any household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this hearty meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love them! They’re colorful and fun, making dinner feel like a special occasion.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them ahead of time for an easy meal later in the week—just pop them in the oven and enjoy!
• Versatile Options: Customize with your choice of protein or make it vegetarian—there’s a variation for everyone!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of seasoned beef, rice, and gooey cheese makes every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll find everything you need to create a mouthwatering dish right here!

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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some delicious variations to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the meat with black beans or lentils for a hearty veggie version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped zucchini or spinach into the filling for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like some heat in your dish.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F so it’s hot when you’re ready to bake those delicious stuffed peppers. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect tender texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Place your halved bell peppers cut side up into a baking dish. This step is crucial as it allows the peppers to roast nicely while holding all that scrumptious filling.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pan over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add diced onion and sauté until soft, then stir in minced garlic. Sautéing these ingredients brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your filling.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add lean ground beef to the pan and cook until it’s no longer pink while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This step is essential as browning the meat adds rich flavor to your dish.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in cooked brown rice, canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cooking this mixture allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while creating a delightful filling.

Step 6: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef mixture into each pepper generously. This part is fun! Make sure each pepper is filled well so every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 7: Bake Until Tender

Bake stuffed peppers for about 10-12 minutes until they are mostly tender. This helps soften them just enough without losing their structure.

Step 8: Add Cheese and Final Bake

Sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese on top of each stuffed pepper evenly. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until bubbly and golden. The melted cheese creates that irresistible topping we all love!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over your stuffed peppers for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Making stuffed bell peppers is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right peppers: Opt for large, firm bell peppers to hold all that delicious filling. Colorful options like red, yellow, or orange not only add vibrancy but also enhance the sweetness of the dish.

• Pre-cook the rice: Using freshly cooked brown rice ensures it’s fluffy and mixes well with the savory filling. If you’re using leftover rice, make sure it’s heated through before mixing it with the other ingredients.

• Season generously: Taste your filling before stuffing the peppers! A well-seasoned mixture elevates the overall flavor. Don’t be afraid to adjust spices or add a bit more salt to suit your taste.

• Adjust baking time: Depending on how tender you like your peppers, you can adjust the baking time. If you prefer them softer, bake a little longer before adding cheese.

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to switch up the proteins or add vegetables to suit your preferences. Ingredients like quinoa, black beans, or even cooked lentils can provide a tasty vegetarian twist!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Serving stuffed bell peppers can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to present this hearty dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Avocado slices: Adding slices of creamy avocado atop each pepper can provide a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.
• Sour cream alternative: A dollop of plant-based sour cream or yogurt adds a tangy note that complements the savory filling perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty stuffed peppers.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, carrots, and asparagus bring extra nutrients and color to your meal. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle some herbs before roasting for added flavor.

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with sautéed onions and herbs makes for a nutritious side that pairs well with the flavors of stuffed peppers.

• Garlic Breadsticks: Serve warm garlic breadsticks alongside for a cozy touch that everyone will love! They’re perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the stuffed peppers.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this easy stuffed bell peppers recipe! Each bite is not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrition and love. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and store them for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Once cooled, transfer any leftover stuffed peppers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
• If reheating from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Microwave individual servings on high for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe.

Can I use different types of protein in this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute lean ground beef with sausage, turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like lentils or beans. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I prevent my bell peppers from getting too soft when making stuffed peppers?

To keep your bell peppers firm, you can blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before stuffing. This will help maintain their structure while ensuring they cook evenly during baking.

What should I serve with my stuffed bell peppers?

These Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers pair wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. You could also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top!

Can I make these Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with your favorite meat substitute like quinoa, black beans, or a mix of sautéed vegetables and spices.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe! It’s such a comforting dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings warmth to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. Enjoy every delicious bite and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors that you love!