Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. These colorful peppers are filled with a hearty mixture of ground beef and brown rice, making them both satisfying and nutritious. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, the versatility of ingredients allows you to customize based on your dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef, spices, and cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Customizable Options: Substitute with turkey, chicken, or vegetarian ingredients for a personalized twist.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients from bell peppers and whole grains, this dish is both filling and good for you.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe smoothly, gather your tools before you start cooking. Having everything prepared will help ensure a hassle-free cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Essential for holding the stuffed peppers while they bake evenly.
• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and browning the meat effectively.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing

• 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)

For Topping

• 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. While it heats up, prepare the bell peppers by placing them cut side up into a baking dish or rimmed tray.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 diced medium onion and sauté until softened. Stir in 2-3 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 1 minute more until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon for about 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Stir in 1½ cups of cooked brown rice, 14.5 ounces of diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 2 teaspoons of paprika. Cook until the sauce slightly reduces, about 4-5 minutes. Taste and season with kosher salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Fill the Peppers

Stuff each prepared bell pepper with the beef mixture until full. Bake in the preheated oven until the peppers are mostly tender, around 10-12 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Sprinkle each stuffed pepper with 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly on top. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Serving Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can elevate your meal and make it more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your family and friends.

With a Side Salad

• A fresh green salad with a mix of leafy greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds a refreshing contrast to the warm stuffed peppers.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the stuffed peppers on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for an extra filling meal, soaking up the delicious flavors from the peppers.

Drizzled with Hot Sauce

• For those who love a kick, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can enhance the flavor profile and add an exciting heat to each bite.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover stuffing from the plate, making it a delightful side option.

Topped with Avocado Slices

• Adding fresh avocado slices not only enhances the dish’s creaminess but also boosts its nutritional value.

Served with Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top provides a cool contrast to the warm peppers and complements the flavors nicely.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

To ensure your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe bell peppers: Select firm, brightly colored peppers for the best flavor and texture.

• Pre-cook rice thoroughly: Make sure your brown rice is fully cooked before adding it to the beef mixture for even distribution.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your filling before stuffing to ensure it’s well-seasoned; adjust salt and pepper as needed.

• Don’t overstuff: Fill each pepper generously but avoid overpacking them to prevent spills during cooking.

• Cover while baking: Covering the dish with foil during baking helps steam the peppers, ensuring they become tender without burning.

• Rest before serving: Let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving and improved flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can create a complete meal experience. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory stuffed peppers beautifully.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side of steamed broccoli adds nutrients while balancing out the richness of the dish.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that pairs well with savory stuffed peppers.
4. Crispy Kale Chips: These healthy chips provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft stuffed peppers.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthiness of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the flavors in stuffed bell peppers marvelously.
7. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crispness and creaminess, making it an excellent match for stuffed peppers.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory flavors in the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure delicious results.

• Skipping the Pre-Cooking Step: Always cook the rice and ground beef before stuffing the peppers. This ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Overstuffing the Peppers: Avoid cramming too much filling into each pepper. Leave a little space at the top so they can cook evenly without spilling over.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland stuffed peppers. Taste your mixture and adjust the spices before stuffing.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Different ovens may vary. Keep an eye on your peppers while baking and adjust the time as needed for tenderness.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially meat, are at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, covering until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe that may help you.

Can I use different meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute lean ground beef with turkey, chicken, or sausage according to your preference.

How do I keep my stuffed peppers from getting soggy?

Make sure not to overcook the peppers during baking. Bake just until they are tender but still hold their shape.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the meat with cooked quinoa, lentils, or beans for a hearty vegetarian option.

What can I serve with stuffed bell peppers?

Stuffed bell peppers pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have at home. It’s perfect for meal prep or family dinners. Give it a try and enjoy warm comfort food!