Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, my Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is just what you need! This dish has been a family favorite for years, packed with hearty flavors and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy.

These stuffed peppers are not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. You can use different proteins or even make them vegetarian, making it suitable for everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while still keeping dinner fun!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have these stuffed bell peppers ready to bake in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheese and beef, making this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare the filling in advance and stuff the peppers right before baking for easy meal planning.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The combination of spices, beef, and cheese creates an irresistible taste that will leave your family asking for seconds.
• Healthier Option: Packed with protein and fiber from the brown rice and ground beef, these peppers are a wholesome choice for dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. Most of these items are staples you might already have on hand!

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)
• 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Replace meat with black beans or lentils for a hearty plant-based version.
• Change up the cheese: Try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor twist.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate chopped zucchini or spinach into the filling for extra nutrition.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your stuffed peppers cook evenly and get that lovely golden finish. While the oven warms up, place your prepared bell peppers cut side up into a baking dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add your diced onion and sauté until it softens—about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial because cooking onions brings out their natural sweetness. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Next, add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until there’s no pink left—around 5-6 minutes. This step helps create a flavorful base as the beef browns nicely.

Step 4: Mix in Rice and Seasonings

Once your beef is cooked through, stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Let everything simmer together for about 4-5 minutes until slightly reduced. Taste your mixture and season with kosher salt and pepper as needed; this is where you can adjust flavors to your liking!

Step 5: Stuff Those Peppers!

Now comes the fun part! Carefully stuff each bell pepper with your savory beef mixture. Don’t be shy; pack them in there! Place them back into your baking dish and bake them until they are mostly tender—about 10-12 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

Sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese over each stuffed pepper evenly. Bake them again for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Making stuffed bell peppers can be a breeze, especially with these handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose vibrant peppers: Opt for colorful bell peppers like red, yellow, and orange that not only look stunning but also offer a variety of flavors. The sweeter varieties can elevate the dish and make it visually appealing.
• Pre-cook the rice: Using pre-cooked brown rice not only saves time but also ensures the rice is fluffy and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the beef and spices during cooking.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Be generous with salt and pepper while cooking your filling. This step builds flavor right from the start and makes your stuffed peppers even more delicious.
• Adjust cooking times for different meats: If you decide to use turkey or chicken instead of beef, keep an eye on cooking times as these leaner meats can cook faster. Always ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to get creative! Substitute ground beef with quinoa or lentils for a vegetarian version, or add in some chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

These easy stuffed bell peppers are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Present them beautifully on a platter, and watch everyone dig in with delight!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor profile of your dish.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop provides a creamy contrast to the savory stuffing, adding richness that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with stuffed peppers. It’s perfect for scooping up any extra filling!
• Mixed green salad: A light salad filled with crisp greens adds a refreshing crunch. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra color and texture.
• Roasted vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal veggies not only balances the meal but also brings vibrant colors to your plate, making it more inviting.
• Quinoa salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with diced veggies and lemon dressing can round out your meal nicely while keeping it healthy and satisfying.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish, and happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and reheat them effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the bags with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, checking every minute or so.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different types of meat for the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can substitute lean ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even sausage. For a vegetarian option, use beans or lentils instead!

How long does it take to cook the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

The total time to prepare and cook these stuffed bell peppers is about 40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal and perfect for meal prep!

Can I make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer as outlined above, making your meal planning easy!

What toppings can I add to my stuffed bell peppers?

Feel free to get creative! Toppings like fresh herbs, avocado slices, or sour cream can enhance flavors. You could also sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking!

What sides pair well with stuffed bell peppers?

Stuffed bell peppers are delicious on their own but pair nicely with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe! It’s not only comforting but also customizable to fit your taste buds. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for a busy week ahead, these stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit. Enjoy making this delightful dish, and don’t forget to share your version with friends and family!