Stuffed bell peppers bring together everything you love in a meal—tender veggies, flavorful filling, and melted cheese—all in one edible bowl! With endless customization options, they’re perfect for satisfying any craving and make an ideal meal for family dinners or meal prep. Get ready to make a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients List: Everything You Need for Flavorful Stuffed Peppers
To achieve perfectly stuffed peppers, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch. Here’s the essential list to get started!
The Main Ingredients: Flavorful and Hearty Fillings
- 4 large bell peppers (any color) – Red, yellow, orange, or green, your choice!
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey – Adds protein and heartiness.
- 1 cup cooked rice – For a comforting, filling base.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained – Adds moisture and a tangy taste.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack) – Melty and delicious.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – For an herbaceous kick.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential seasonings.
Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds color and freshness.
- Sour cream – For a creamy finish.
- Extra cheese for topping – Because you can never have too much cheese!
Equipment Needed: Tools to Make Stuffed Peppers Like a Pro
Just a few basic tools are all you need for stuffed pepper success.
- Large skillet – To cook the filling.
- Mixing bowl – For combining the ingredients.
- Baking dish – To hold and bake the peppers.
- Knife and cutting board – For prepping the peppers and filling.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Stuffed Peppers
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make stuffed peppers that are tender, flavorful, and beautifully golden on top!
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly or spraying it with nonstick spray.
- Prepare the Peppers: Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Set aside the peppers and discard the tops.
- Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the diced onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Ground Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add the Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix in the Cheese: In a mixing bowl, combine the meat mixture with ¾ cup of the shredded cheese, reserving the rest for topping.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the filling into each prepared bell pepper, packing it in tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the baking dish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the tops of each stuffed pepper for a cheesy finish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or any of your favorite toppings. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time and Serving Size: Easy and Delicious for Any Occasion
Here’s the time breakdown and serving size for these stuffed peppers:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Serving Size: Serves 4
Nutritional Information (Per Stuffed Pepper)
Calories: ~350 | Protein: 20g | Carbs: 30g | Fat: 18g
Tips and Variations: Make It Your Own
Stuffed peppers are easy to customize. Here are some tips and variations to make this dish just right for you!
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground meat for black beans or chickpeas for a hearty, meatless version.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to reduce carbs.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
- Add Extra Veggies: Diced zucchini, corn, or spinach make great additions to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Presentation Tips: Serve Stuffed Peppers Like a Pro
Stuffed peppers look great served directly from the baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra parsley on top, add a dollop of sour cream, or even serve with a side of avocado slices. For a cozy dinner, pair with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.
Stuffed Bell Peppers FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are answers to common questions to help you make perfect stuffed bell peppers every time.
- Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time? Yes! Prepare and stuff the peppers, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
- Can I freeze stuffed peppers? Absolutely. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap individually and freeze. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- What if my peppers aren’t standing up? Trim the bottoms slightly to create a flat surface without cutting through.
Savor Every Bite of These Flavorful Stuffed Peppers
This stuffed bell pepper recipe is hearty, nutritious, and packed with flavor. With endless possibilities for customization, these peppers are sure to please everyone at the table. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s easy to make and delightful to eat. Happy cooking!
