Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need for a classic stuffed bell peppers recipe:

  • Bell peppers (4 to 6 large ones)
  • Protein: Ground beef, turkey, or plant-based options like lentils.
  • Grains: Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous.
  • Vegetables: Diced onions, tomatoes, and spinach.
  • Cheese: Shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a dairy-free alternative.
  • Seasonings: Garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Toppings: Fresh parsley, sour cream, or hot sauce (optional).

Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on your dietary preferences!

How to Prepare Stuffed Bell Peppers

Step 1: Prepping the Peppers

Start by washing the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut off the tops (about an inch from the stem) and scoop out the seeds and membranes. Save the tops if you’d like to use them as “lids” for presentation.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

The filling is where the magic happens. Cook your protein in a skillet until browned, then toss in diced onions and garlic for added depth of flavor. Stir in cooked grains, chopped veggies, and a generous handful of shredded cheese. Add your seasonings and mix everything together until well-combined.

This may contain: stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish with cheese and herbs on top, ready to be eaten

Assembling and Baking the Peppers

Step 3: Stuffing the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper generously with the prepared mixture, pressing it down gently to ensure it’s packed tightly. Top with extra cheese for a gooey, melty finish.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and add a splash of water or broth to the bottom of the dish to keep them moist. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown.

Variations to Try

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Swap the meat for black beans, chickpeas, or tofu. Amp up the veggies with zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots.

Low-Carb Stuffed Peppers

Replace grains with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version. You’ll still get the same hearty satisfaction without the carbs.

Spicy Stuffed Peppers

Love a kick of heat? Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes to your filling. You can also drizzle some hot sauce before serving.

A Final Thought on Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are more than just a meal; they’re a celebration of color, flavor, and creativity. Whether you keep it traditional or experiment with bold variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those bell peppers and get cooking—you’re about to create something truly delicious! 🌟

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