Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. These stuffed peppers are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even casual gatherings with friends. Packed with flavorful ground beef and fluffy brown rice, this recipe offers a satisfying blend of taste and nutrition. Plus, they are versatile! You can easily swap the proteins or make them vegetarian to suit your preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch out the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or go vegetarian with beans or lentils.
• Healthy Ingredients: With lean protein and plenty of vegetables, these stuffed peppers are both nourishing and delicious.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: Brightly colored bell peppers filled with cheese and meat are sure to please even picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large baking dish or rimmed tray
• Large pan
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large baking dish: This allows you to bake all your stuffed peppers at once without crowding.
• Large pan: A spacious pan helps you sauté the onions and garlic evenly while cooking the beef.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up the ground beef without scratching your cookware.

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)

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 (190°C). Prepare a baking dish or rimmed tray by placing the large bell peppers cut side up.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Sauté diced onion until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute more.

Step 3: Cook Ground Beef

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

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika.
Cook until sauce is slightly reduced, about 4–5 minutes.
Season with kosher salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

Stuff each pepper generously with the beef mixture. Bake until peppers are mostly tender, approximately 10–12 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over each stuffed pepper.
Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Serving easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can elevate your meal experience. These delicious peppers are not just flavorful but also visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the savory stuffed peppers, enhancing the overall meal.

Accompany with Garlic Bread

• Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra juices from the stuffed peppers, making it a delightful addition to your plate.

Serve with a Side of Quinoa

• Quinoa provides a nutritious and protein-packed option that complements the flavors of the peppers without overpowering them.

Drizzle with Balsamic Reduction

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds tanginess and sweetness that balances the savory filling of the stuffed peppers.

Offer a Creamy Dip

• Serving a creamy dip, such as tzatziki or avocado crema, can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to each bite.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

To ensure your easy Stuffed Bell Peppers come out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose firm peppers – Select bell peppers that are firm and vibrant in color for better texture and taste.
• Cook rice beforehand – Ensure your brown rice is cooked before adding it to the stuffing; this helps blend flavors evenly.
• Season generously – Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; proper seasoning enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Avoid overstuffing – Fill each pepper generously but avoid packing too tightly to allow for even cooking.
• Cover while baking – Covering the baking dish with foil during the first half of cooking helps steam the peppers, making them tender.
• Let cool slightly before serving – Allow stuffed peppers to cool for a few minutes after baking; this makes them easier to handle when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well with stuffed peppers.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition, complementing the flavors in your main dish.
3. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing offers a crunchy contrast and enhances the meal’s freshness.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob brings a touch of sweetness that balances savory notes from stuffed peppers.
5. Couscous Salad – Light, fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs and lemon provides a refreshing side that complements every bite.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli is nutrient-rich and adds a nice crunch alongside your hearty stuffed peppers.
7. Coleslaw – Tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, providing a nice balance to the rich flavors of stuffed bell peppers.
8. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers a sweet finish to your meal while cleansing the palate after savory bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe even better. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the filling can lead to bland stuffed peppers. Always taste your mixture and adjust salt and spices as needed.
• Overcooking the peppers: Cooking the peppers too long before stuffing can make them mushy. Aim for a tender texture that still holds its shape.
• Using uncooked rice: Using raw rice in the filling may result in undercooked grains. Always use pre-cooked or leftover rice for optimal results.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Failing to properly chop vegetables can affect the cooking time and texture. Dice onions and garlic finely for even cooking.
• Not covering while baking: Leaving the peppers uncovered can dry them out. Cover with foil during baking to keep them moist.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet with a splash of water, covered, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute lean ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for the beef in this recipe.

How do I customize my Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or swap cheese types based on your preference.

Can I make these stuffed peppers vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the meat with black beans, lentils, or quinoa mixed with vegetables for a tasty vegetarian option.

What sides go well with stuffed bell peppers?

Pair your stuffed bell peppers with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is not only cheesy and savory but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you choose ground beef, turkey, or a vegetarian mix, these stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Try it out and enjoy a delicious meal!