Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and delightful dish that not only look appealing but are also packed with flavor and nutrition. They make a fantastic meal option for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week. Here, we'll explore a classic recipe for Stuffed Bell Peppers, tailored for ease and delectable taste. Whether you're looking to serve something vibrant or want to sneak in a variety of vegetables for your family, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 large bell peppers (various colors for presentation)
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a healthier twist)
- 1 cup of cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
🔥 Note: You can adjust the quantities based on the number of servings you want to make.
Preparation Steps
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Bell Peppers:
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Rinse them under cold water, and set aside, tops up, on a baking dish.
- Cook the Filling:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
- Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Stuff the Peppers:
- Evenly distribute the meat mixture among the bell peppers, filling them to the top.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top of each pepper.
- If you like, you can put the pepper tops back on for a unique presentation.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the peppers to cool slightly before serving.
| Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Bell Peppers | Top removed, seeds and membranes cleaned out |
| Ground Beef | Browned in skillet |
| Rice | Cooked and cooled |
| Cheese | Shredded for topping |
🔥 Note: This recipe can be made vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a mixture of lentils or chopped mushrooms for protein.
Variations and Tips
Here are some variations and tips to enhance your stuffed bell peppers:
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like feta, goat cheese, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
- Meat Substitutions: Try sausage, ground turkey, or even leftover cooked chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Use quinoa instead of rice, and add beans or chickpeas for protein.
- Spice it Up: Add chili powder or cumin for a Southwestern twist, or incorporate curry powder for an Indian-inspired dish.
- Topping Variations: Consider adding breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips on top for extra texture before baking.
🔥 Note: Leftover peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and they also freeze well for future meals.
Wrapping up, this Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe not only presents an aesthetically pleasing meal but also delivers on flavor and nutrition. It's simple to customize to dietary preferences or to use up whatever you have in the fridge. With the right blend of spices and ingredients, these peppers can be transformed into a meal that suits any palate or dietary requirement. Whether you're aiming to impress at dinner, wanting to add more veggies to your diet, or looking for a convenient make-ahead dish, stuffed bell peppers are a perfect choice.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
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Yes, you can assemble the stuffed bell peppers ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
How do I store leftover stuffed peppers?
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Place any leftover peppers in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I use different types of rice?
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Definitely! You can use any type of rice like brown, wild, or even leftover fried rice for a unique taste.
