Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stuffed peppers recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering a balanced combination of hearty meat, fluffy rice, and flavorful spices, all in a colorful pepper shell. It’s customizable, allowing you to adjust the fillings to suit your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a small family or hosting a gathering, stuffed peppers are an effortless and tasty way to bring people together.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rice (brown or white)
- Tomato paste
- Ground beef (85/15 or 90/10 lean-to-fat ratio)
- Diced tomatoes
- Bell peppers (any color)
- Monterey Jack cheese (or other cheese of choice)
- Parsley (for garnish)
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Oregano
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the rice if you haven’t already, then set aside.
- Prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops, removing the core and seeds, and setting them aside.
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Add tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the meat and rice mixture.
- Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Top each with cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with beans, lentils, or a mixture of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack to add your own twist.
- Spicy: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook stuffed peppers?
Stuffed peppers typically take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with 20 minutes for preparation and 1 hour for baking.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will take longer to cook, so plan accordingly.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian filling like black beans or quinoa.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze stuffed peppers before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How do I make the rice ahead of time?
You can cook the rice a day or two ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the stuffed peppers.
Can I use a different type of pepper?
Yes, feel free to use any bell pepper color or other varieties like poblano peppers for a different flavor.
How do I know when the stuffed peppers are done?
The peppers should be tender, and the filling should be hot and bubbly. The cheese on top should also be melted and slightly browned.
What’s the best cheese for stuffed peppers?
Monterey Jack cheese works well, but you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Can I make stuffed peppers without rice?
Yes, you can make a low-carb version by using cauliflower rice or skipping the rice entirely.
How can I make stuffed peppers spicier?
Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or spicy sausage to the filling for a kick of heat.
Conclusion
Classic stuffed peppers are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a hearty filling of ground beef, rice, and savory spices, they are sure to satisfy your hunger and leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy customizing this recipe to suit your preferences, and keep it in your recipe rotation for a comforting, wholesome dinner.
