STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

These STUFFED BELL PEPPERS are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a perfect choice for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. This dish stands out with its vibrant colors and hearty filling, featuring ground beef and rice enveloped in tender bell peppers. Not only are these baked peppers easy to prepare, but they also pack a nutritious punch that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

Stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic meal option that combines taste and convenience.

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without much fuss.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef, rice, and spices creates a savory filling that’s sure to please.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the stuffing ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, they’re a balanced meal choice.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These peppers store well in the fridge, making them ideal for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make creating stuffed bell peppers even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking of the stuffed peppers while keeping the moisture locked in.
• Sharp knife: Allows for clean cuts when preparing the bell peppers.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and mixing in all your ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Peppers

• 6 bell peppers (any color, or a combination of colors)
• Cooking spray

For the Filling

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (I use 90% lean)
• 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice (do not use raw rice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided use)
• 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped)

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How to Make STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a large baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

1. Slice the tops off the peppers and remove the ribs and seeds inside.
2. Place the peppers cut side down in the baking dish.
3. Add 1 1/2 cups of water to the dish.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

While the peppers are cooking:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef, seasoning it with salt and pepper.
3. Cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula until it’s fully cooked.
4. Add onion to the pan; cook for 3–4 minutes or until softened.
5. Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Add cooked rice, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning; stir well to combine.
7. Mix in 1/2 cup of cheese along with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Fill & Bake Peppers

1. Remove cooked peppers from oven; drain off excess water.
2. Turn each pepper over carefully; fill with beef mixture generously.
3. Top each stuffed pepper with remaining cheese.
4. Cover with foil again and bake for another 20 minutes.
5. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted, browned, and peppers are tender.

Step 5: Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over each pepper before serving warm! Enjoy your delicious STUFFED BELL PEPPERS!

How to Serve STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

Stuffed bell peppers make a delightful main dish that you can easily serve in various ways. Their vibrant colors and flavors make them perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With a Side Salad

• Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a crunchy texture.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and croutons complement the savory stuffed peppers perfectly.

Topped with Salsa

• Fresh Salsa: A zesty salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brings a refreshing contrast.
• Pico de Gallo: This classic Mexican condiment can enhance the flavor of stuffed peppers with its tangy taste.

Accompanied by Dips

• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs well with the hearty filling of stuffed bell peppers.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and balances the spices in the dish.

How to Perfect STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

To achieve the best results with your stuffed bell peppers, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfying.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall taste of your stuffed bell peppers.
• Customize Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooked peppers can become mushy while undercooked may be too crunchy.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors in your stuffed bell peppers.
• Pre-cook Rice: Using cooked rice ensures that the filling has the right texture and doesn’t absorb too much moisture during baking.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to season each layer of your filling to bring out all the delicious flavors in your stuffed bell peppers.

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Best Side Dishes for STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

Pairing side dishes with your stuffed bell peppers can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any sauce left on your plate.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a colorful and healthy addition to your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and a nutty flavor, balancing the richness of the stuffed peppers.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, which can cut through the heaviness of cheese.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with spices makes for a comforting side that complements the pepper’s filling.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with savory stuffed bell peppers for a delightful Southern twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed bell peppers are a delightful dish, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are key pitfalls to avoid.

• Overcooking the Peppers: If you bake the peppers too long initially, they can become mushy. Bake them just until tender for the best texture.
• Using Raw Rice: Always use cooked rice in your filling. Raw rice won’t cook properly inside the peppers, leading to a crunchy texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your meat and filling well. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor significantly.
• Not Draining Peppers: After baking, make sure to drain excess water. This prevents soggy stuffed bell peppers that can ruin the dish.
• Skipping Cheese on Top: For delicious gooeyness, don’t skip adding cheese on top. It adds flavor and makes the dish visually appealing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the stuffed bell peppers to cool completely before sealing them in the container.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Wrap individual stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a container for better preservation.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate to keep moisture in.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of water, cover, and heat over medium heat for around 5 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing and storing stuffed bell peppers.

Can I customize the filling for Stuffed Bell Peppers?

Yes! Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives. You can also add vegetables or beans for extra nutrition.

How long do Stuffed Bell Peppers last?

When properly stored in the refrigerator, stuffed bell peppers will last up to four days. In the freezer, they can stay good for about three months.

Can I prepare Stuffed Bell Peppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day ahead. Just store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Stuffed Bell Peppers?

Stuffed bell peppers pair well with side salads, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. They make a great complete meal!

Final Thoughts

These stuffed bell peppers are not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different meats or veggies based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!