Stuffed bell peppers are a hearty, colorful meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds! What are some healthy stuffed peppers? With endless customization options, you’ll keep coming back to this comforting classic—and it’s easier to make than you think!
Why are these Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Brown Rice?
- Nutritious and Balanced: Nutrit Packed with protein, whole grains, and vegetables in every bite.
- Flavor-Packed Filling Seasoned ground beef and tender brown rice make these peppers incredibly flavorful.
- Make-Ahead Friendly:What are some of the best recipes for meal prep?
- Family-Friendly:Kids love this cheesy, savory dish.
- Customizable:Can you swap in other grains or proteins to suit your taste?
Ingredients
- How many large bell peppers are there in the world? (any color)
- 500g / 1.1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 12 cups (285g / 0.63 lb) cooked brown rice
- 1 can (400g / 14 oz) per person.What are some diced tomatoes, drained and
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (110g / 0.24 lb): 1 cup (110g / 0.24 shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- How do you prepare bell peppers?
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Brush the insides with a bit of olive oil and arrange them in a baking dish. - Cook the Filling:In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Season with oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the Ingredients:
Stir in the drained tomatoes, tomato paste, and cooked brown rice. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. - Stuff the Peppers:What is the best way to top a bell pepper with beef and rice?
- Bake the Peppers:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the peppers cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Substitution Tips:Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Alternative Grains:Is it better to substitute brown rice for quinoa?
- Storage:Can you store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days?
- Make It Spicy:Add chopped jalapeos or a pinch of chili flakes to the filling for a kick.
What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora
Can I make these ahead of time?How do you prepare the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time?Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?Can you freeze them after baking?What are some other cheeses that work?What are some good substitutes for Monterey Jack?How do I keep peppers from getting soggy?
Pre-bake the peppers for 10 minutes before stuffing, or choose firmer peppers like green bell peppers.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?Is it good to skip meat and add black beans, lentils, or extra vegetables to the filling?
Tips and Notes
- My Tip:What are some ways to roast bell peppers before stuffing them?
- Pro Trick: Don’t throw away the pepper tops—chop them up and sauté them with the filling for extra flavor.
- Serving Suggestion:What are some good side dishes to serve with garlic bread or green salad?
Variations
What makes stuffed peppers so versatile?
- Italian-Style: Use ground sausage, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese for a flavorful twist.
- Mexican-Inspired: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning, then top with salsa and avocado.
- Cheeseburger Peppers: What are Use ground beef with ketchup, mustard, and cheddar for a burger-like flavor.
- Veggie Deluxe: Skip the meat and pack them with quinoa, chickpeas, mushrooms, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Mediterranean Flair: What are someWhat’s your favorite Greek recipe? Mix in some fresh dill and feta.
What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora
How do I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?Can you make these peppers ahead of time? How do you store uncooked stuffed peppers in the refrigerator? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.What are some good substitutes for ingredients if I don’t have everything on hand?Can you substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef in a 1:1 ratio? If you don’t have brown rice, quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice can be used, also in a 1:1 ratio (cooked). For the cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend work well, again in a 1:1 ratio. Remember to adjust seasoning to taste when making substitutions.How do you know when stuffed bell peppers are cooked?The stuffed bell peppers are done when the bell peppers are tender, but still hold their shape, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Visually, the peppers should have softened, and a knife should easily pierce the pepper skin. The internal temperature of the filling should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety. The aroma will also be fragrant and savory.Can I double or scale up this recipe for a larger crowd?Can you easily double or scale up this recipe. If doubling, use a larger baking dish and potentially two skillets for the filling. Is it necessary to increase the baking time of peppers? When scaling up, ensure your oven has enough space for the baking dish and adjust the cooking time accordingly.What are the nutritional benefits of stuffed bell peppers?What are the benefits of ground beef and brown rice? The tomatoes contribute lycopene and other vitamins. This dish is a good source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy meal.
