Irresistible Stuffed Peppers Recipe for Flavor Explosion

There’s something truly magical about stuffed peppers. Picture this: vibrant, bell-shaped vessels filled to the brim with a savory mixture of rice, meat, and spices, all bubbling away in your oven. The sweet aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that will make you weak at the knees. This stuffed peppers recipe is not just food; it’s a heartfelt hug served on a plate.

I remember the first time I made these colorful delights. It was a chilly autumn evening, and my friends were coming over for dinner. As I pulled those beauties out of the oven, their eyes widened in awe, and I knew I had struck gold. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

I still chuckle remembering my friend Dave’s reaction when he took that first bite—he looked like he’d just discovered the fountain of youth!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bell Peppers: Choose firm, brightly colored peppers for both taste and visual appeal.

• Ground Meat: Use beef, turkey, or chicken; feel free to mix them up for more flavor.

• Cooked Rice: Leftover rice works perfectly here; it saves time and adds great texture.

• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for best results.

• Diced Tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes with herbs for added flavor; they create a juicy filling.

• Cheese: Go for mozzarella or cheddar; cheese makes everything better, right?

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking from the moment you pop those peppers in.

Sauté the Base Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Toss in chopped onions and sauté until they turn soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.

Add Ground Meat and Seasoning: Once onions are translucent, add ground meat to the skillet. Cook until browned completely while breaking it apart with your spatula for even cooking.

Mix in Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in your cooked rice and diced tomatoes along with any spices you desire—think garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Let that simmer for about 5 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Prepare Your Peppers: While your filling simmers away like a cozy blanket on a winter night, slice the tops off your bell peppers and remove seeds carefully using a spoon.

Stuff Those Peppers Up!: Generously fill each pepper with your savory mixture until overflowing slightly—don’t be shy! Top each pepper with cheese because who doesn’t love cheesy goodness?

Now all that’s left is baking these gems! Place them upright in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25-30 minutes until tender. Remove foil during the last few minutes to let that cheese get bubbly and golden brown.

And there you have it—a delightful stuffed peppers recipe that’s as comforting as your grandma’s hugs but way more delicious! Enjoy every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the peppers briefly to enhance their sweetness. While they roast, prepare your filling. Combine cooked rice, ground meat, and spices in one pan for efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out rice for quinoa or add black beans for extra protein. Top with cheese or fresh herbs for a unique twist that elevates the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warm, about 15-20 minutes.

Sometimes I think about that potluck where my stuffed peppers were devoured within minutes—who knew they could be such a crowd-pleaser?

FAQ

What type of peppers work best for this stuffed peppers recipe?

Bell peppers are ideal due to their sweetness and sturdy texture when baking.

Can I make stuffed peppers vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use lentils, beans, or mushrooms as protein-rich alternatives.

How long do I bake stuffed peppers?

Bake them at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and filling is heated through.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Stuffed Peppers

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Stuffed peppers are a delightful and hearty dish that combines bell peppers with savory fillings of rice, meat, and spices. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, bringing comfort and color to your dinner table. The vibrant presentation and incredible flavors will make everyone swoon. Easy to prepare and adaptable, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite in your home.

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Ingredients

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• 4 medium-sized bell peppers, any color
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and seasonings of your choice. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
6. Generously stuff each pepper with the filling, topping with shredded cheese.
7. Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.
8. Remove foil during the last few minutes to let cheese brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper (approx. 250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg