Print

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers
Print Recipe

A simple and delicious stuffed bell peppers recipe perfect for a quick, hearty dinner. Tender bell peppers are filled with a savory mix of ground meat, rice, vegetables, and melted cheese for a colorful, nutritious, and family-friendly meal that is easy to customize and full of comforting homemade flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Bell Peppers

  • 4 large firm bell peppers (any color)

Filling

  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil (e.g., olive oil)

Cheese Topping

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, feta, or gouda – optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bell Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes carefully to create hollow cups. Lightly blanch the peppers in boiling water for 3 minutes to soften slightly, then drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Filling: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add your choice of ground meat or vegetarian substitute, cooking until browned. Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors well.
  3. Stuff the Peppers: Generously fill each bell pepper with the savory mixture, pressing down slightly to pack the filling. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a shallow baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown, ensuring a well-cooked and flavorful dish.
  5. Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes after baking to set the filling for easier serving and better flavor distribution.

Notes

  • Choose large, thick-walled bell peppers to hold the filling better and cook evenly.
  • Pre-cook the rice fully to avoid excess moisture that can make peppers soggy.
  • Do not overfill the peppers; leave a small space at the top to prevent overflow during baking.
  • Use a shallow baking dish to improve heat circulation and ensure even cooking.
  • Allow the stuffed peppers to rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, stuffed peppers, healthy dinner, ground meat recipe, family meal, gluten free, easy dinner, baked peppers

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/stuffed-bell-peppers/