This stuffed peppers recipe is a delicious and wholesome meal that’s as colorful as it is flavorful. Packed with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and vegetables, these peppers are baked to perfection for a comforting and satisfying dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is easy to customize with your favorite ingredients!
Ingredients You’ll Need Stuffed Peppers Recipe
For the Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or sausage
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How to Make Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Prepare the Peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil.
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Add ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to combine.
- Stuff the Peppers:
- Place the hollowed-out peppers in a baking dish. Fill each pepper generously with the prepared filling.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own, but you can pair them with:
- A fresh green salad for a lighter side
- Garlic bread for soaking up the juices
- Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty complement
Why This Recipe Works
- Customizable: Use different proteins, grains, or spices to suit your taste.
- Healthy and Balanced: A great way to include protein, carbs, and veggies in one dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These peppers reheat well, making them ideal for leftovers.
Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers
- Choose the Right Peppers: Look for peppers with flat bottoms so they stand upright in the baking dish.
- Pre-Cook for Tender Peppers: If you prefer softer peppers, boil them for 3-5 minutes before stuffing.
- Add Extra Flavor: Mix in herbs like cilantro or parsley, or sprinkle red pepper flakes for some heat.
Storing and Reheating Stuffed Peppers
- Refrigerate: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for 2-3 minutes.