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Stuffed bell peppers are excellent for meal prepping. They can be made in advance, stored in the fridge, and easily reheated throughout the week. They’re also freezer-friendly, so you can prepare a big batch and enjoy them whenever you’re in need of a quick, healthy meal.
4. Easy to Make and Adapt
The preparation for stuffed bell peppers is straightforward, making them a great dish even for beginner cooks. Plus, they don’t require any special techniques or equipment, which is a win for anyone who wants a tasty meal without much hassle.
Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe: A Simple and Delicious Guide
This recipe combines ground beef, rice, and cheese for a hearty and flavorful filling that perfectly complements the bell pepper. You can easily adjust the ingredients to make the dish more or less hearty, depending on your preference.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside the tops if you’d like to use them as a decorative lid later.
- Place the bell peppers upright in a baking dish. You can line the dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin, stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once the beef is cooked, add the tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes) and cooked rice. Stir until well combined and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it tightly until each pepper is full.
- If you want extra cheesy goodness, top each stuffed pepper with a handful of shredded cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Peppers
- Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven for about 25 minutes. This step helps soften the peppers and meld the flavors.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once done, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve immediately.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers:
If you prefer a meat-free version, you can substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or quinoa. You can also add roasted vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms to make the dish more filling.
Spicy Stuffed Peppers:
For a bit of heat, add jalapeños, chili flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling. You can also experiment with spicy cheese like pepper jack.
Cheese Lovers’ Version:
For an extra cheesy kick, mix cream cheese into the filling before stuffing the peppers. You can also top the peppers with multiple layers of cheese – mozzarella, cheddar, or a cheese blend of your choice.
Conclusion
Stuffed Bell Peppers are a simple yet hearty dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures in every bite. With a combination of lean protein, vegetables, and rice, they make for a satisfying and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family. Whether you’re customizing the filling to suit your taste or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
So, grab some bell peppers and get cooking – your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
