Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Stuffed bell peppers are a wonderful dish that is both colorful and full of flavor. This recipe brings together fresh ingredients and cooking techniques that help create a satisfying meal. Whether you are looking for a cozy family dinner or a dish to impress friends, stuffed bell peppers can be an excellent choice. They are not just tasty; they are also healthy and can be customized in many ways to fit your preferences.
When you take your first bite of a stuffed bell pepper, you will enjoy the mix of flavors and textures. Juicy bell peppers filled with seasoned beef and rice are not only pleasing to the eye but also comforting to eat. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for all cooking levels, making it an ideal meal for a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make stuffed bell peppers. Firstly, they are incredibly customizable. You can use any combination of vegetables, grains, and proteins to fit your taste or dietary needs. For example, if you want a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. Additionally, they are a great way to sneak in extra vegetables, making them a healthy option for both kids and adults.
Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. The steps are easy to follow, and most of the ingredients can be found in your pantry or local grocery store. The cooking process is efficient too, taking about an hour from start to finish, including baking time. That means you can serve a homemade meal without spending the entire day in the kitchen.
Moreover, stuffed bell peppers are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare a big batch, enjoy them for dinner, and have leftovers for lunch. This recipe is also freezer-friendly; you can make extra and store them for later use.
Finally, stuffed bell peppers look great on the table. Their vibrant colors create an appealing presentation that can make any meal feel special. They are also a fun dish to prepare, especially when cooking with kids or friends.
How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
Making stuffed bell peppers is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
To make this dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 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 (1 can)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 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)
Directions
Here is a step-by-step guide to making easy stuffed bell peppers:
Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and core. Place them cut side up in a baking dish.
Sauté the onion: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the pan. Cook until it is browned, about 5-6 minutes. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
Combine the filling: Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste. Cook this mixture for about 4-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Stuff the peppers: Take the beef mixture off the heat and carefully stuff each bell pepper with the filling. Pack it gently but firmly.
Bake the peppers: Place the stuffed peppers in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. After this time, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers make a great main dish and can be served in various ways. One simple method is to plate each stuffed pepper individually, showcasing their bright colors. You can add a side salad for extra freshness or serve them with crusty bread. These peppers are also great with a dollop of sour cream or avocado on top for added creaminess.
If you have leftovers, you can reheat them in the microwave or oven. They are delicious warm or even at room temperature. The flavor tends to improve the next day as the ingredients meld together, making leftovers a delightful lunch option.
How to Store Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
If you have made more stuffed bell peppers than you are eating right away, you can easily store them. Here is how:
In the fridge: Place the cooled stuffed peppers in an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in the microwave or oven until warm.
In the freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed peppers. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the peppers to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
Choose the right peppers: Look for bell peppers that are firm and have vibrant colors. They should feel heavy for their size. If you can find a mix of colors, it will make your dish even more appealing.
Customize the filling: Feel free to add ingredients like corn, black beans, or chopped spinach to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor. You can also switch out the cheese for your favorite type.
Adjust the spice level: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
Don’t overcook the peppers: When baking, keep an eye on the peppers. You want them to be tender but still hold their shape.
Top with fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can add an extra pop of flavor.
Variation
Stuffed bell peppers can be varied easily. Here are some ideas:
Vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a mix of beans and legumes. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a different texture.
Mexican style: Add taco seasoning to the filling, and replace cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick. You can also top them with salsa instead of fresh parsley.
Mediterranean twist: Use ground lamb or chicken in the filling, and mix in cooked couscous, feta cheese, and chopped olives for a Mediterranean flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bell peppers?
Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers. Just allow them to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them in this recipe.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture before stuffing the peppers. Alternatively, serve them with a spicy sauce on the side.
3. Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake, up to 24 hours in advance.
There you have it! A simple, delicious recipe for easy stuffed bell peppers that you can enjoy any night of the week. Happy cooking!
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and core. Place them cut side up in a baking dish.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pan. Cook until it is browned, about 5-6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Take the beef mixture off the heat and carefully stuff each bell pepper with the filling. Pack it gently but firmly.
- Place the stuffed peppers in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. After this time, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.