Stuffed Peppers Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Stuffed peppers are a comforting, colorful dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. You’ll love how easy it is to customize them with your favorite ingredients, making them perfect for any taste. The combination of tender peppers, savory filling, and melted cheese creates a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in extra veggies without anyone noticing. Best of all, they’re a one-pan wonder, so cleanup is a breeze!

Recipe

Stuffed peppers are a versatile and hearty dish that can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. This recipe combines flavorful ingredients to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and place them in a baking dish.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with cooked lentils or quinoa.
• Add a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.

Time:

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Serving: 4

Nutrition

Stuffed peppers are a nutritious and flavorful dish, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my stuffed peppers with simple sides, like a crisp green salad or garlic bread, to keep the meal balanced. A glass of fruity red wine or a sparkling lemonade can really enhance the flavors, depending on your mood. What’s your go-to combo for serving stuffed peppers?

Side Dishes

A few simple sides can turn stuffed peppers into a complete, satisfying meal. I like to use cooking techniques that complement the dish, like roasting vegetables or steaming grains, to keep things light yet flavorful. A bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice works beautifully, soaking up the rich sauce from the peppers. For a fresh contrast, I’ll toss together a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette or roasted garlic broccoli. I also love flavor combinations like garlic butter mashed potatoes or a zesty cornbread to add texture and variety. These choices make every bite feel balanced and special!

Beverage Pairings

Pairing the right drink with stuffed peppers can really elevate the meal, and it’s fun to think about how flavors work together. I love a glass of red wine with this dish, especially something like a smooth Merlot or Zinfandel. The rich, fruity notes complement the savory filling perfectly. If I’m not in the mood for wine, I’ll go for sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime. It’s invigorating and balances the meal without overpowering it. Sometimes, I even add a sprig of mint for a little extra flair. Experiment and see what you like best!