Stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort food, packed with a flavorful filling of seasoned meat, rice, and vegetables, all baked to perfection inside tender bell peppers. This dish is hearty, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome family dinner or a meal prep option that reheats beautifully, stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic choice. Plus, they’re highly customizable—you can swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences!
Ingredients:
For the Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional Additions:
- Black beans or corn for extra texture
- Chopped mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the bell peppers and slice off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes inside.
- Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned.
- Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and cumin.
- Mix in diced tomatoes and cooked rice, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it gently.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Nutritious & Balanced – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste.
- Easy to Make – Simple steps with minimal prep.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Would you add any extra ingredients to make this dish uniquely yours? Let’s get creative! 😋🔥