Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dish that brings everyone to the table, this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is just what you need! These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and fluffy brown rice, making them both satisfying and nutritious. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare. Plus, they look so lovely on the dinner plate, don’t you think?

As someone who loves sharing meals with family and friends, I can assure you that these stuffed bell peppers will quickly become a staple in your home. They are versatile enough to cater to different tastes, whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when time is short.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and colorful presentation, even the kids will be excited to dig in!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for future meals.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create a filling meal that’s sure to please.

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 things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or try veggie crumbles for a plant-based twist.
• Change up the grains: Substitute quinoa or couscous for brown rice if you’re looking for something different.
• Spice it up: Add some heat with diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of kick!
• Add veggies: Mix in chopped zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms 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 will cook evenly and get that lovely golden finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Place your 7 large bell peppers cut side up into a baking dish or rimmed tray. This sets the stage for stuffing them with all that delicious filling.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Sautéing these aromatics brings out their flavors and forms a wonderful base for your filling.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Next, add in 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook until there’s no pink left—this should take around 5-6 minutes. As you’re cooking, break up the meat with a wooden spoon. This helps create an even texture throughout your filling.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in your cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika into the beef mixture. Let this simmer until the sauce slightly reduces—about 4-5 minutes. Taste it along the way; feel free to season with kosher salt and pepper as needed!

Step 6: Stuff Those Peppers

Now comes the fun part! Carefully stuff each pepper with your beef mixture until they’re generously filled. Place them back into the baking dish and bake until they are mostly tender—around 10-12 minutes.

Step 7: Add Cheese & Bake Again

Finally, sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over each stuffed pepper. Return them to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until bubbling and golden! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

And there you have it—your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm as a delightful main course that will surely impress!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Making stuffed bell peppers is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate this dish to perfection!

• Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for large, firm bell peppers in vibrant colors like red, yellow, or green. This not only enhances the presentation but also ensures they hold their shape during cooking.

• Cook Rice Ahead of Time: Using pre-cooked brown rice saves time and ensures that your filling is ready to go. Plus, it allows the flavors to meld beautifully with the other ingredients.

• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your mixture. A generous amount of salt and spices will enhance the overall taste of the dish, making every bite flavorful.

• Bake with Cheese Covered: For that gooey, cheesy finish, cover your stuffed peppers with cheese during the last few minutes of baking. This creates a deliciously melty topping that everyone will love.

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix up your stuffing! Incorporate veggies or even beans for a vegetarian option. This flexibility makes the recipe versatile and fun!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

These easy stuffed bell peppers will not only satisfy your taste buds but also impress your guests with their vibrant colors and delicious aroma. Here are some delightful serving ideas to make your meal even more special!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances out the savory flavors of the stuffing.
• Lime Wedges: Serving with lime wedges allows guests to add a zesty kick to their dish.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.
• Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed side can be made with diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and a splash of lemon juice for a light yet filling accompaniment.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, carrots, and broccoli bring out natural sweetness and add another layer of flavor.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra filling or sauce left on your plate—deliciously satisfying!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, saving you time during busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They can be stored for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the stuffed peppers completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• For best results, label your containers with dates.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen peppers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently until hot.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of meat in this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage. Vegetarian options like lentils or black beans also work wonderfully.

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

The total time for this recipe is about 40 minutes, including both prep and cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that fits into any busy schedule.

What can I serve with my stuffed bell peppers?

Stuffed bell peppers pair nicely with a fresh salad or some warm crusty bread. You could also add a side of roasted vegetables for extra flavor!

Are there any variations I can try with stuffed peppers?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding different spices or veggies to the stuffing. You might try corn, black beans, or even quinoa for a twist on this classic dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers! This recipe is not just simple but also adaptable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or hosting friends, these stuffed peppers will surely impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own variations—I’d love to hear how they turn out for you!