Stuffed Bell Peppers

The first time I made Stuffed Bell Peppers, it was one of those cozy evenings where the sun sets just a little earlier, and the air gets that crispness that tells you autumn is right around the corner. My family was gathered in the kitchen, all eager to taste something warm and filling. I vividly remember the vibrant hues of the bell peppers, their sweet aroma wafting through the air as they cooked in the oven. These vibrant vegetables, stuffed with a hearty mixture of rice, ground beef, and melted cheese, quickly became a signature dish in my home. Every bite was a harmony of flavors that brought smiles to our faces. The beauty of Stuffed Bell Peppers lies not only in their taste but also in their presentation—the colorful peppers standing tall, ready to impress at any dinner table.

Ingredients Required for Stuffed Bell Peppers

When it comes to making Stuffed Bell Peppers, the ingredients play a pivotal role in creating a rich, comforting dish. The combination of fresh vegetables, hearty proteins, and flavorful seasonings creates a wonderful balance that makes each bite delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 same size bell peppers
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 28 ounces strained or pureed tomato sauce
• 1 garlic clove, crushed but left whole
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese + more for tops
• 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
• Salt and pepper

How to Assemble Stuffed Bell Peppers

Assembling Stuffed Bell Peppers is a fun and straightforward process that brings the whole dish together. Follow these simple steps to create a colorful and delicious meal your family will love. Let’s dive in!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your peppers will cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once it’s hot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic turns golden, then remove the garlic and discard it; it’s done its job of flavoring the oil.
3. Now, add the ground beef to the pot. Using the back of a spoon, break it down into smaller pieces. Cook it until there are no juices left, and the beef is browned completely.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, adding a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. While the sauce is cooking, slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise. Carefully remove all the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cold water, then dry them with a paper towel. Sprinkle the insides with a little salt and pepper.
6. Butter an ovenproof pan to prevent sticking. Arrange the bell pepper halves in the pan, cut side up.
7. Once the tomato mixture is ready, mix in the cooked white rice, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella. Stir until everything is well combined, creating a filling that’s bursting with flavor.
8. Now, it’s time to fill each bell pepper half with the mixture. Pack it in but don’t overfill them, as the cheese needs space to melt.
9. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the tops of the stuffed peppers. This will create a lovely cheesy crust while baking.
10. Carefully place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are slightly soft.

Things Worth Knowing

Substitutions and Tips

When making Stuffed Bell Peppers, there are many ways to make the dish your own. Here are some tips and tricks to enhance your cooking experience:

• Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to keep the peppers tender.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked stuffed peppers for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
• Pairing: Serve your stuffed peppers with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty filling.
• Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for a unique flavor twist.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro make a lovely garnish that adds color and freshness when serving.

What Goes Well With This Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread perfectly complements the savory flavors of Stuffed Bell Peppers.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the dish.
• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables provide a wonderful contrast to the stuffed peppers.
• Rice Pilaf: Serve alongside a fluffy rice pilaf for added texture and flavor.
• Dinner Parties: These stuffed peppers are great for entertaining guests as they make a stunning presentation.
• Seasonal Occasions: Perfect for gatherings during the fall season, as their colors and flavors resonate with autumn.

FAQ

Conclusion

Stuffed Bell Peppers are truly a delightful dish that combines flavor, color, and comfort. They are easy to make, customizable, and make for a beautiful presentation on any dinner table. I encourage you to try making this recipe; it’s a family favorite that brings warmth and happiness to the dinner table. Plus, your loved ones will appreciate the hearty, wholesome meal!

Stuffed Bell Peppers

The ultimate comfort food, Stuffed Bell Peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and gooey cheese, baked to perfection. This easy weeknight dinner is not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes. Make it tonight, and watch your family fall in love with this delicious dish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 4 bell peppers same size
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 tablespoon butter unsalted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 28 ounces tomato sauce strained or pureed
• 1 garlic clove crushed but left whole
• 1 pound ground beef
• 0.5 onion yellow, diced
• 0.5 cup parmesan cheese grated + more for tops
• 1 cup mozzarella shredded
• salt and pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your peppers will cook evenly and thoroughly.
• In a large pot over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once it’s hot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic turns golden, then remove the garlic and discard it; it’s done its job of flavoring the oil.
• Now, add the ground beef to the pot. Using the back of a spoon, break it down into smaller pieces. Cook it until there are no juices left, and the beef is browned completely.
• Stir in the tomato sauce, adding a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• While the sauce is cooking, slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise. Carefully remove all the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cold water, then dry them with a paper towel. Sprinkle the insides with a little salt and pepper.
• Butter an ovenproof pan to prevent sticking. Arrange the bell pepper halves in the pan, cut side up.
• Once the tomato mixture is ready, mix in the cooked white rice, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella. Stir until everything is well combined, creating a filling that’s bursting with flavor.
• Now, it’s time to fill each bell pepper half with the mixture. Pack it in but don’t overfill them, as the cheese needs space to melt.
• Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the tops of the stuffed peppers. This will create a lovely cheesy crust while baking.
• Carefully place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are slightly soft.

Keyword Easy Dinner Ideas, family-friendly meals, healthy stuffed peppers, stuffed bell peppers recipe

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Meet Romina Scott

Welcome to my kitchen. I founded Recipes By Romina with a simple goal: to share the fresh, vibrant, and reliable flavors that I love most. I personally develop and approve every single dish on this site to ensure it is not only delicious but also easy for you to recreate at home. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, I hope this recipe inspires you to grab an apron and get cooking!