Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. These colorful peppers are filled with flavorful ground beef and fluffy brown rice, making them both satisfying and healthy. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer versatility in terms of ingredients. You can easily substitute the meat or even make them vegetarian. Serve them at gatherings or as a family dinner, and watch everyone enjoy this comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices, cheese, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste in every bite.
• Versatile Options: Easily swap out the ground beef for turkey or make it vegetarian by using beans or lentils.
• Healthy Ingredients: Filled with nutritious vegetables and lean protein, these stuffed peppers are a wholesome choice.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time for easy meals throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious stuffed bell peppers, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pan
• Baking Dish
• Wooden Spoon
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pan: Ideal for sautéing your vegetables and browning the meat evenly.
• Baking Dish: Perfect for holding your stuffed peppers while they bake to perfection.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

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)

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. Prepare your baking dish by placing the large bell peppers cut side up.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
* Sauté 1 medium onion until it softens.
* Stir in minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Cook Ground Beef

Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan.
* Cook until no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon (about 5–6 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in:
* 1½ cup cooked brown rice,
* 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes,
* 1 tablespoon tomato paste,
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano,
* 2 teaspoons paprika.

Cook until the sauce slightly reduces (about 4–5 minutes). Taste and season with kosher salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture. Bake until the peppers are mostly tender (about 10–12 minutes).

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded Cheddar Jack cheese evenly over each pepper. Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until melted.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Serving Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can be a delightful experience, enhancing the flavors of this wholesome dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy your stuffed peppers.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine tossed with creamy dressing and croutons complements the savory peppers.

Accompany with Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – A dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top provides a creamy contrast.
• Hot Sauce – For those who enjoy a kick, hot sauce can add an exciting flavor boost.

Serve with Grains

• Quinoa – A side of fluffy quinoa is nutritious and pairs well with the stuffed peppers.
• Couscous – Light and airy couscous makes for a wonderful, easy-to-make side.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Perfecting your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers ensures they are flavorful and satisfying. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold seasoning – Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste. Extra paprika or chili powder can give it more depth.
• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall flavor profile significantly.
• Cook rice properly – Ensure your brown rice is fluffy and fully cooked before mixing it into the stuffing.
• Don’t overstuff the peppers – Leave some space in each pepper to allow room for expansion while baking.
• Bake until tender – Keep an eye on the peppers while baking; they should be tender but not falling apart.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Complementing your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with side dishes can create a balanced meal that satisfies everyone. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread adds a crunchy element that contrasts beautifully with the soft peppers.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized enhances the meal’s nutrition and flavor.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli is a healthy addition that brightens up the plate.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and zest, balancing out the richness of the stuffed peppers.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory stuffed peppers and provides extra fiber.
6. Rice Pilaf – Flavorful rice pilaf made with herbs complements the dish wonderfully while adding variety to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe successful, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your filling properly can lead to bland peppers. Always taste your mixture and adjust the salt and spices as needed.
• Overcooking the peppers: Cooking bell peppers for too long can make them mushy. Bake them just until they’re tender but still hold their shape.
• Using uncooked rice: Adding uncooked rice directly into the stuffing will result in undercooked grains. Make sure your brown rice is fully cooked before mixing it into the filling.
• Ignoring the cheese melting time: If you add cheese too early, it may burn or become rubbery. Wait until the peppers are almost done baking before sprinkling cheese on top.
• Not removing seeds properly: Leaving seeds in the bell peppers can create a bitter flavor. Be sure to clean out all seeds and membranes before stuffing.
• Choosing small peppers: Smaller bell peppers can be difficult to stuff and may not hold enough filling. Opt for larger varieties for easier handling and more delicious bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a stuffed pepper on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, cover, and steam the peppers for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute ground beef with lentils or quinoa mixed with diced vegetables. This keeps it nutritious while maintaining great flavor.

Can I use other types of meat in this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or lamb work well as substitutes for ground beef.

What should I serve with Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Pair these stuffed peppers with a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s satisfying yet healthy.

How long does it take to prepare this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

The total time is around 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is not only cheesy and savory but also offers endless customization options. You can easily swap out proteins or add more vegetables based on what you have at home. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these stuffed peppers are sure to please!