These classic stuffed bell peppers are bright, colorful, and packed with flavor! They are filled with a mixture of seasoned meat, rice, and yummy spices that make every bite a delight.
I love how easy they are to make! Just chop, stuff, and bake until they are tender. Plus, they look so pretty on the table—you can’t help but love them! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bell Peppers: Any color works well! I love using a mix of red, yellow, and green for a colorful dish. If you can’t find bell peppers, zucchini or large portobello mushrooms could also be fun substitutes.
Ground Beef/Turkey: Ground turkey is a great leaner option, and it still tastes delicious. For a vegetarian version, consider using cooked quinoa, lentils, or even a mix of black beans and corn.
Rice: White rice is classic, but brown rice adds more fiber. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be healthy substitutes if you’re looking for something different.
Cheese: Cheddar is a popular choice, but mozzarella melts beautifully if you prefer a stretchy cheese. For dairy-free options, check out vegan cheese alternatives!
How Do I Perfectly Stuff My Peppers?
Stuffing peppers can be tricky, but here are some tips to make it easier. First, ensure your filling is fully cooked before stuffing. This helps the flavors blend well!
- Overstuff each pepper slightly for a hearty filling.
- Press the filling down gently so it holds together while cooking.
- Don’t forget to add some sauce on top before baking; it helps the cheese melt nicely!
Covering with foil keeps them moist during baking, so don’t skip that step!
Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers with Savory Filling
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or oregano and basil)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to bake, making a total of about 1 hour for some tasty stuffed bell peppers. It’s a wonderful dish perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Started with Prepping:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that warms up, slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Don’t throw away the tops; you can chop them up for the filling if you like!
2. Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet, add olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
3. Add the Meat:
Now, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. If there’s extra fat, be sure to drain it off.
4. Mix in the Good Stuff:
Next, stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and some salt and pepper. Mix everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend those delicious flavors!
5. Assemble Your Peppers:
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese. Place the prepared bell peppers upright in a baking dish and fill each one generously with your savory mixture. Top each pepper with the remaining cheese!
6. Bake Your Creation:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like, then dig in and enjoy these hearty, comforting stuffed bell peppers!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are great alternatives to ground beef. For a vegetarian option, use cooked quinoa, lentils, or even a mix of beans for a hearty filling.
How Can I Make These Stuffed Peppers Spicier?
If you want to crank up the heat, add more red pepper flakes or try using a spicy sausage in place of the ground beef. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for added spice!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance! Just assemble them and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
How to Store Leftover Stuffed Peppers?
Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Enjoy them as a quick meal!
