The Best Homemade Filled Bell Pepper Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade filled bell peppers are a perfect blend of hearty and healthy, with flavors that pop in every bite. You’ll enjoy how simple they are to make, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen. You’ll love how customizable they are—swap ingredients to match your taste or what’s in your pantry. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters. And, the aroma as they bake will make your kitchen smell amazing!
Recipe
Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that combines vibrant bell peppers with a savory filling, often featuring ground meat, rice, and seasonings. This recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the filling and place them in a baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese melts.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or quinoa.
- Adjust spices to taste.
Equipment:
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Foil
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4
Nutrition
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal with a variety of nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my stuffed bell peppers with simple sides like a fresh green salad or garlic bread, but you can’t go wrong with roasted veggies either. For drinks, I usually reach for a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon. It’s all about finding what makes the meal feel complete and enjoyable for you.
Side Dishes
When you’re serving homemade filled bell peppers, you’ll want sides that complement their hearty, savory flavors without stealing the show. I love pairing them with a light, crisp salad, like a simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette, to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. Roasted veggies, like zucchini or carrots, add a touch of sweetness and texture. If I’m craving something heartier, a scoop of fluffy rice or quinoa works well. Remember, the goal is to enhance the peppers, not overpower them—your sides should feel like a cozy supporting cast.
Beverage Pairings
Choosing the right beverage to pair with homemade filled bell peppers can turn a great meal into something truly special. I love serving a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to balance the rich flavors. If I’m not in the mood for wine, a light beer or sparkling water with lemon works just as well. For non-alcoholic options, I reach for iced tea or a tangy lemonade—they complement the savory filling perfectly. Sometimes, I’ll even whip up a fruity mocktail for fun. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s invigorating and enhances the meal!
