Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe are a go-to dish for those seeking a meal that is both healthy and full of flavor. These colorful peppers serve as an edible container for a variety of fillings, including savory meats, hearty grains, and vibrant vegetables. Their versatility and stunning presentation make them perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
To elevate your meal, consider pairing stuffed bell peppers with other comforting dishes like KFC Biscuits, which add a buttery, flaky texture to any plate.
Why Stuffed Bell Peppers Are a Popular Choice
Stuffed bell peppers have stood the test of time for several reasons:
- Nutritional Benefits: Packed with vitamins C and A, bell peppers are an excellent source of antioxidants.
- Customizable Fillings: From ground beef and rice to vegetarian and keto-friendly options, you can tailor this dish to suit any diet.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The bright colors of red, yellow, and orange peppers make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
For a dessert option to round out your meal, try a no-bake favorite like Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding, which pairs perfectly with savory dishes.
Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 cup cooked rice (substitute quinoa for a healthier option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- Par-cook the peppers by roasting them for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
- Mix in rice, tomato sauce, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stuff the Peppers:
- Arrange peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Spoon the filling into each pepper, pressing it down gently.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Creative Variations
Stuffed bell peppers offer endless possibilities for experimentation:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with black beans, corn, and quinoa for a plant-based twist.
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice to make the dish keto-friendly.
- Mexican-Inspired: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a spicy kick.
For another stuffed vegetable option, explore Chiles Rellenos, a flavorful Mexican classic.
FAQs About Stuffed Bell Peppers
1. Can You Freeze Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Yes, you can freeze stuffed bell peppers either before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in foil or an airtight container and store them for up to three months.
2. What’s the Best Way to Reheat Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If frozen, defrost overnight in the refrigerator first.
3. How Do You Keep Peppers from Getting Soggy?
Avoid overcooking during the pre-roasting step. Roasting instead of boiling helps retain their structure.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed bell peppers are a timeless favorite that can be adapted to any palate or occasion. Pair them with dishes like KFC Biscuits for a hearty Southern-inspired meal, or finish with a dessert like Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding for a satisfying sweet touch.
Whether you’re sticking to tradition or exploring new flavor combinations, stuffed bell peppers are a must-try for any home cook. Ready to make your own? Get started today!
Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Delicious and Versatile Dish
Ingredients
Ingredients for Stuffed Bell Peppers
Bell Peppers and Filling:
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, orange, or green)
- 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or plant-based alternative
- 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa for a healthier option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Hot sauce or salsa
Instructions
Instructions for Stuffed Bell Peppers
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside.
- Par-cook the peppers by either boiling them for 3-4 minutes or roasting them in the oven for 10 minutes to tenderize. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, chili powder, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
- Arrange the prepped bell peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Spoon the filling mixture into each pepper, pressing gently to pack it tightly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top of each filled pepper.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve with sour cream, hot sauce, or salsa if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and customizable stuffed bell peppers!