Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Cheesy and savory, the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. These vibrant peppers filled with flavorful ground beef and fluffy brown rice are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them to suit your dietary preferences, making them suitable for families and gatherings alike. With their colorful presentation and hearty filling, they stand out as a satisfying meal that pleases both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Filling: Use lean ground beef, turkey, chicken, sausage, or even vegetarian options for a dish that suits everyone.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
• Healthy Option: With the addition of brown rice and veggies, this meal is both nutritious and filling.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your easy stuffed bell peppers, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish or rimmed tray: Essential for holding the stuffed peppers while they bake evenly.
• Large pan: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and browning meat to bring out maximum flavor.
• Wooden spoon: Great for breaking up ground meat without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 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)
• 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)
• 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. While it heats up, prepare your bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the cores. Place them cut side up in a baking dish or a rimmed tray.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

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

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan.
Cook until no longer pink, using a wooden spoon to break up the meat while cooking 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 slightly reduces, about 4–5 minutes. Taste and season with kosher salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven until the peppers are mostly tender, about 10–12 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Final Bake

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

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Serving Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can elevate your meal experience and impress your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your dish even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes complements the savory flavors of stuffed peppers. Drizzle with a vinaigrette for added zest.

Offer Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a deliciously crunchy texture that balances the soft stuffed peppers. It’s perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.

Accompany with Quinoa or Couscous

• A side of fluffy quinoa or couscous provides a nutritious addition to your meal. They absorb flavors well and add a pleasant bite to each bite.

Add a Creamy Dip

• Consider offering a creamy dip like ranch or tzatziki. This adds an element of fun and can be used as a refreshing contrast to the warm stuffed peppers.

Top with Avocado or Guacamole

• Slices of fresh avocado or a dollop of guacamole can enhance the flavors while adding creaminess. These options are also great for those who enjoy healthy fats.

Include a Side of Rice or Beans

• A small serving of seasoned rice or beans makes for a hearty pairing, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied. They provide additional fiber and protein to the meal.

How to Perfect Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

To achieve the best results when making your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh bell peppers and high-quality ground beef ensures better flavor and texture in your dish.
• Don’t Overstuff: Fill each pepper without overpacking to allow even cooking and prevent spills during baking.
• Pre-cook Rice: Using already cooked brown rice saves time and enhances the overall flavor integration within the stuffing.
• Season Generously: Taste your filling before stuffing the peppers, adjusting salt, pepper, and spices as needed for maximum flavor.
• Bake at Right Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 375 F for even cooking; this helps achieve tender peppers with melted cheese.
• Allow Resting Time: Let stuffed peppers sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty suggestions.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a comforting addition that complements the stuffed peppers perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition while enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dinner table.
3. Cauliflower Rice
   For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs; it’s an excellent base that absorbs all the delicious juices from the stuffed peppers.
4. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances out the richness of the stuffed peppers, making each bite fresh.
5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob is always a crowd-pleaser that pairs nicely with savory dishes like stuffed bell peppers—grilled or boiled works great!
6. Baked Zucchini Fries
   Crispy zucchini fries add fun finger food flair alongside your main dish while keeping things light and healthy.
7. Greek Yogurt Dip
   A cool yogurt dip sprinkled with herbs serves as an appealing accompaniment, providing creaminess and tanginess to contrast with warm stuffed peppers.
8. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad brings sweetness and brightness, making it an excellent palate cleanser between bites of savory stuffed bell peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed bell peppers are a crowd-pleaser, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding excess liquid can make your filling soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts of tomatoes and avoid adding extra broth.
• Not Pre-Cooking the Peppers: Skipping this step can result in crunchy peppers. Pre-bake them for about 10 minutes to ensure they cook through properly.
• Overstuffing the Peppers: Filling the peppers too much can lead to spills and uneven cooking. Aim for a generous but manageable amount of filling in each pepper.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoned filling can taste bland. Taste your mixture before stuffing and adjust salt and pepper as necessary.
• Skipping Garnish: Neglecting to add a finishing touch, like parsley, can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh herbs enhances both flavor and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place one stuffed pepper on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water to a skillet, cover, and heat over medium until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this easy stuffed bell peppers recipe.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute lean ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or even vegetarian options like lentils or quinoa for a nutritious twist.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

How do I customize my easy stuffed bell peppers recipe?

Feel free to mix in different vegetables like corn or black beans. You can also use different types of cheese based on your preference!

How long do easy stuffed bell peppers last?

When stored properly, they last up to 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I grill stuffed bell peppers?

Absolutely! Grilling gives them a smoky flavor. Just wrap them in foil and place them on the grill until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This easy stuffed bell peppers recipe is not only cheesy and savory but also highly customizable. Whether you prefer meat or vegetarian ingredients, these stuffed peppers can adapt to suit any palate. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying meal that everyone will love!