Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. These stuffed peppers are filled with flavorful ground beef and fluffy brown rice, making them a healthy and satisfying meal. You can serve them for family dinners, meal prep for the week, or even at gatherings with friends. The standout quality of this recipe is its versatility; you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal cooking skills while delivering maximum flavor.
• Versatile Filling Options: Swap out the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian mix to cater to different dietary needs.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from the beef and brown rice, these stuffed peppers make for a nutritious meal.
• Freezable for Later: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals on busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the colorful presentation and delicious taste, making it an ideal family meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish or rimmed tray: This is essential for holding the stuffed peppers upright during baking.
• Large pan: A good-sized pan allows you to sauté your onions and garlic evenly before adding the meat.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for breaking up the ground beef without scratching your pan’s surface.

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 and arrange the 7 large bell peppers cut side up in a baking dish or on a rimmed tray.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
* Sauté 1 medium onion until soft.
* Stir in 2–3 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 1 minute more.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan.
* Cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon for 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 is slightly reduced, about 4–5 minutes. Taste and season with kosher salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

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

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle each pepper evenly with 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese.
Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish that will delight your family and friends.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed peppers.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a classic touch to your meal.

Serve with Grains

• Quinoa: A nutty flavor and chewy texture make quinoa a fantastic side for stuffed peppers.
• Couscous: This quick-cooking grain can be flavored with herbs and lemon for an extra zing.

Add Dips and Sauces

• Sour Cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess that balances the spices in the stuffed peppers.
• Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip provides healthy fats and a refreshing taste.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

To ensure your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

• Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your beef mixture; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Even cooking: Make sure to pre-cook the rice so that everything is evenly cooked by the end of baking.
• Colorful peppers: Use a variety of bell pepper colors for an attractive presentation and added sweetness.
• Cover while baking: For more tender peppers, cover them with foil during the first half of baking before uncovering to add cheese.
• Check doneness: Make sure the peppers are tender but not mushy; they should hold their shape.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Adding side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the flavors of stuffed peppers.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil add color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet treats offer a delightful contrast to savory stuffed peppers.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and freshness that balances the meal.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs can soak up any juices from the stuffed peppers.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli is packed with vitamins and makes for a healthy addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed bell peppers are a delightful dish, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Boldly Overstuffing: Adding too much filling can cause the peppers to burst during cooking. Aim to fill them snugly but not excessively.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your filling can lead to bland peppers. Always taste your mixture before stuffing the peppers and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Using Uncooked Rice: Using uncooked rice in the filling will prevent it from cooking properly. Make sure your rice is fully cooked before mixing it with other ingredients.
• Skipping the Bake Time: Not baking the stuffed peppers long enough can result in tough vegetables. Ensure they bake until they’re tender yet still hold their shape.
• Choosing Low-Quality Ingredients: Using inferior ingredients can affect the overall flavor. Opt for fresh veggies and good quality meat or vegetarian substitutes for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I customize the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap out beef for turkey or chicken, or even use quinoa or lentils for a vegetarian option.

What types of bell peppers work best?

All colors of bell peppers (red, green, yellow, orange) work well. Choose ones that are firm and have no blemishes.

How do I ensure my stuffed bell peppers stay intact?

Make sure not to overstuff them and keep an eye on them while baking so they don’t get too soft.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it based on what’s in your pantry or personal tastes. Give it a try, and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s sure to impress!