Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that’s as delicious as it is versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to your liking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep and can be cooked on the stovetop or in the oven.
Versatile: You can use any ground meat you like, from beef and pork to chicken or even vegetarian options like lentils or quinoa.
Flavorful: The combination of savory fillings and sweet bell peppers creates a symphony of taste.
Healthy: Bell peppers are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a nutritious choice.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Classic Beef-Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
4 large bell peppers (any color)
For the Filling:
1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, chicken, or your choice)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (10 ounce) can tomato sauce
1/2 cup cooked rice (any kind)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Additions:
1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped mushrooms
1/4 cup chopped olives
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Instructions
1. Prep the Peppers:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. Make the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain off any excess grease.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, rice, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
3. Stuff the Peppers:
Spoon the filling evenly into the prepared bell peppers.
Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
4. Bake:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Tips and Variations
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for some extra heat.
Go Vegetarian: Replace the ground meat with cooked lentils, quinoa, or your favorite vegetarian protein source.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the stuffed peppers before baking.
Make it Cheesy: Stuff the peppers with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and cheese.
Use Different Vegetables: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
Top with Breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping, mix some breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them over the stuffed peppers before baking.
Slow Cooker Option: You can also make stuffed peppers in the slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the peppers are tender.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed bell peppers are a complete meal on their own, but you can serve them with a side salad, a crusty loaf of bread, or some roasted potatoes.
Storage
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a little creativity, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why this classic dish is a crowd-pleaser?
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for any health-related concerns.
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