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Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers: A Savory and Satisfying Meal
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers is a dish that delivers on all fronts. This classic recipe combines tender bell peppers with a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, rice, vegetables, and cheese. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family, and it’s also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers is a recipe that never disappoints. It’s an all-in-one meal that combines protein, vegetables, and grains, making it a well-balanced option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
- Flavorful and Hearty: The ground beef provides a rich, savory filling, while the bell peppers offer a subtle sweetness that balances out the flavors. Add some tomato sauce, herbs, and cheese, and you’ve got a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
- Customizable: You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Add extra vegetables, swap in a different protein (like turkey or chicken), or change up the seasoning to create a dish that fits your flavor profile.
- Nutrient-Packed: Stuffed peppers are a great way to enjoy a well-rounded meal with plenty of nutrients. You get protein from the ground beef, fiber and vitamins from the peppers, and carbohydrates from the rice.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days, or even frozen for a quick dinner later on. It’s a great option for busy weeks or meal prepping.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color—red, green, yellow, or orange)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 1 cup fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing the seeds and membranes from the inside. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly so that the peppers sit upright in your baking dish.
You can choose to blanch the peppers (by boiling them for 2-3 minutes) if you prefer a softer texture, but if you like them with a little crunch, skip this step and go straight to stuffing them.
2. Cook the Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Add the ground beef (or ground turkey) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Stuff the Peppers
Once the filling is ready, spoon the meat mixture into each of the prepared peppers, packing them gently to ensure they are stuffed well. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
4. Add Tomato Sauce and Cheese
Pour the tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers, making sure they are coated evenly. Sprinkle the tops of the peppers with shredded cheese, ensuring it melts nicely over the stuffing during baking.
5. Bake the Stuffed Peppers
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. After the time is up, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the peppers are tender.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the peppers are cooked to your liking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Success:
- Try Different Rice Options: You can use brown rice for a more nutritious, hearty filling or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- Add More Vegetables: Sneak in extra veggies by adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the meat mixture. Finely chop them to blend into the filling.
- Customize the Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy twist, or Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
- Make Ahead: Stuffed peppers are a great dish to prepare ahead of time. You can assemble the peppers and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
- Freeze for Later: You can freeze uncooked stuffed peppers for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
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