Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

In my kitchen, Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers have become a staple that brings a comforting warmth to our family dinners. These vibrant, colorful bundles not only look beautiful on the table but are also brimming with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe is both simple and satisfying, making it ideal for anyone looking to whip up something delicious quickly.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why choose stuffed bell peppers for your next meal? For starters, they’re incredibly versatile—an excellent way to utilize leftover ingredients while also being kid-approved. You can customize the filling to suit your taste or what you have on hand. They also make a stunning presentation that impresses guests for casual gatherings or family meals.

“These stuffed peppers turned out amazing! My kids couldn’t get enough and even asked for seconds!” – A happy home cook.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 7

Preparing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

This recipe is straightforward and covers all the basics. Here’s how it flows:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Get your baking dish ready by placing the halved bell peppers cut side up inside it.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and golden.
3. Brown the ground beef and mix it with rice, tomatoes, and spices.
4. Stuff the pepper halves and bake until tender.
5. Finish with cheese and enjoy!

What You’ll Need

Gather these items for delicious stuffed bell peppers:

• 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
• Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
• 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)
• 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the cleaned bell peppers in a baking dish cut side up.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes soft, about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon—this should take about 5-6 minutes.

4. Mix in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Season with oregano, paprika, and salt and pepper. Cook the mixture until slightly reduced, about 4-5 minutes.

5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, packing it in gently. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until the peppers are mostly tender.

6. Sprinkle cheese over the top of each pepper and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until melted and bubbly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

7. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a simple green salad or a side of roasted veggies. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve them with crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa for added heartiness. A light wine spritzer or a refreshing iced tea completes this wholesome meal!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To keep your stuffed peppers fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze unbaked stuffed peppers for up to 2 months—just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a little extra time to the baking process.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for a quicker meal later. Just stuff the peppers before baking.
• Mix It Up: Feel free to experiment with different spices or add beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Use Leftover Rice: This dish is a wonderful way to use up leftover rice from other meals.
• Watch the Bake Time: If you’re using smaller peppers, keep an eye on them as they may cook faster.

Creative Twists

If you feel adventurous, try these fun variations:

• Southwestern Style: Mix in corn, black beans, and a little chili powder for a kick.
• Mediterranean Flair: Substitute feta cheese for the cheddar and add chopped olives and spinach to the filling.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, and extra veggies for a plant-based delight.

With these warm, hearty stuffed bell peppers, you’re well on your way to creating a family favorite. Enjoy the process of making them as much as diving into the delicious outcome!