Stuffed peppers are a hearty, colorful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. This classic recipe combines vibrant bell peppers with a savory filling of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices, making it a beloved option for both family meals and gatherings. With their visually stunning appearance and irresistible flavors, stuffed peppers are not only good for the palate but also fun to make. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300 calories
- Protein: 22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fat: 12 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 500 mg
Why Make This Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers offer a wonderful balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. They are naturally gluten-free, customizable, and filled with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish allows room for creativity. You can select different types of meat, switch up the grains, or add your favorite vegetables. Plus, they can be made ahead and are easy to store, making meal prep a breeze.
How to Make Stuffed Peppers
Creating stuffed peppers is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to whip up this delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese for topping (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, cut the tops off each bell pepper and remove the seeds. This will create an inviting vessel for your savory filling.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re softened and fragrant, typically about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Cooking the Meat
Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, stirring occasionally to break it apart. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure the meat is thoroughly cooked before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Mixing the Filling
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Stuffing the Peppers
Carefully spoon the meat mixture into each hollowed bell pepper, packing them gently. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
Step 6: Baking
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
Step 7: Finishing Touch
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. If you’d like cheesy goodness, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the peppers are tender.
How to Serve Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are delicious on their own but pair beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. For a cozy touch, drizzle with a little olive oil or balsamic reduction before serving. They also make a wonderful centerpiece for a potluck or family gathering.
How to Store Stuffed Peppers
To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Stuffed peppers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the peppers in the fridge overnight, then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers
- Choose Firm Peppers: Select fresh, firm bell peppers for the best results.
- Customize Fillings: Feel free to swap out beef or turkey for ground chicken, sausage, or even a vegetarian mix using beans or lentils.
- Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavors. Paprika or cumin can add a delightful twist!
- Cook Rice Ahead: Using leftover or pre-cooked rice saves time and makes this dish even quicker.
Delicious Variations
- Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers: Replace ground meat with quinoa and add olives and feta cheese for a Greek twist.
- Tex-Mex Stuffed Peppers: Use taco-seasoned ground beef and add black beans and corn to the filling. Top with salsa and avocado.
- Vegetarian Option: Pack each pepper full of sautéed veggies, cheese, and black beans for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen peppers? Yes! Just thaw them before stuffing and adjust cooking time if they are still icy.
- What can I substitute for rice? Quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice can be excellent alternatives.
- How long do I bake stuffed peppers? Bake them covered for 25-30 minutes, then uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until tender.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare them a day ahead and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- What kind of cheese works best? Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack are great choices for topping your stuffed peppers.
Conclusion
Stuffed peppers are a versatile and delicious option that structures a hearty meal in a beautiful package. They not only satisfy the hunger but also delight the eyes and taste buds. The combination of flavors, coupled with the ease of preparation, makes this recipe a go-to in any kitchen. So gather your ingredients and embark on this mouthwatering culinary adventure – your family and friends will surely thank you!
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Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Stuffed peppers filled with ground meat, rice, and spices, offering a hearty and colorful meal.
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Mix well and simmer for a few minutes.
- Spoon the mixture into each bell pepper, packing gently. Place them upright in a baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove foil, top with cheese if desired, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and peppers are tender.
Notes
Stuffed peppers are customizable; try different meats or add vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
