Easy Stuffed Peppers

Every time I make Easy Stuffed Peppers, it brings me back to my childhood kitchen, where the aroma of fresh ingredients filled the air. My mom would spend her weekends crafting these delightful peppers, transforming them into a family favorite. The vibrant colors of the peppers mixed with the hearty filling always made my mouth water. I remember sitting at the dinner table, eagerly awaiting the moment when she’d pull them out of the oven, their cheesy tops bubbling just right. These Easy Stuffed Peppers are not just a meal; they’re a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, they’re sure to impress everyone at the table.

Key Ingredients for Easy Stuffed Peppers

The ingredients for Easy Stuffed Peppers come together beautifully, creating a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to please. The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the vibrant bell peppers, which serve as the perfect vessel for a delicious filling. With a blend of protein from the ground beef, the freshness of vegetables, and the heartiness of rice, this dish strikes the perfect balance. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, ensuring every bite is as satisfying as the last.

• 1 Tbsp Avocado Oil – This oil is perfect for sautéing, adding a subtle richness to the dish.
• 1 Medium-Sized Yellow Onion – Finely chopped, it brings sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling.
• 3 Cloves Garlic – Minced garlic enhances the taste, infusing the dish with its aromatic qualities.
• 1 lb Ground Beef – A savory base that adds protein and heartiness to the peppers.
• 2 Tbsp Chili Powder – This spice blend gives the dish a warm kick, elevating the flavor profile.
• 1 Cup Chopped Tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes add moisture and tang, making the filling juicy and delicious.
• ½ Cup Chicken or Beef Broth – This broth enhances the richness of the filling and ensures it’s not dry.
• 1 Cup Cooked Brown or White Rice – The rice adds substance and helps to bind the filling together.
• 5 to 6 Medium-Sized Bell Peppers – Choose colorful peppers for a vibrant dish that’s pleasing to the eye.
• ¾ tsp Sea Salt – Season to taste to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
• 1 Cup Mozzarella Cheese – A gooey, melted topping that completes the stuffed peppers perfectly.

Directions for Easy Stuffed Peppers

Making Easy Stuffed Peppers is a delightful process that brings together all the fresh ingredients in a beautiful way. Let’s dive into the steps to create this amazing dish.

1. Pour the avocado oil into a large, thick-bottomed pot and heat to medium-high. You want the pot to be hot enough that the oil shimmers but doesn’t smoke. This initial step lays the foundation for the flavors to develop.

2. Stir in the chopped yellow onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent, about five minutes. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the deliciousness to come.

3. Add the ground beef and allow it to brown for a couple of minutes. As it cooks, break it into smaller bits with your spoon. You want it to get a nice brown color, which adds depth to the filling.

4. Stir in the remaining ingredients except for the cooked rice and cook at a full boil for eight to ten minutes. The sauce will thicken, and the flavors will meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

5. Once the sauce is rich and aromatic, stir in the cooked rice. This is the moment when everything comes together, creating an inviting filling that’s bursting with flavor.

6. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. While the oven is heating, you can prepare the peppers to save time.

7. Cut the tops off of the bell peppers and carefully remove the core. Rinse them under cold water to ensure they’re clean and ready to be filled.

8. Fill each bell pepper with the ground beef mixture. There should be enough filling for five or six medium-sized peppers or four large ones. Press the filling down gently to pack it in well.

9. Place the stuffed peppers in a deep casserole dish and cover with foil. This helps to steam the peppers and keeps them moist during baking.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for thirty minutes. During this time, the peppers will soften and the filling will heat through.

11. After thirty minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle each pepper with mozzarella cheese. Place the peppers back in the oven and bake for another ten minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

12. Finally, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven, allow them to cool slightly, and serve with your choice of sides. Enjoy the vibrant colors and enticing aromas!

Ways to Customize

There are so many ways to make Easy Stuffed Peppers your own. Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing!

• Swap the Protein: You can easily replace the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein to make it vegetarian.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese like cheddar, pepper jack, or even feta for a unique twist.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and add spices like cumin or paprika for extra flavor.
• Vegetable Additions: Mix in some finely chopped vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms into the filling for added nutrients.
• Serving Ideas: Serve with a zesty salsa or a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra flavor boost.
• Make it a Casserole: If you prefer, layer the filling and peppers in a baking dish instead of stuffing them for a fun casserole dish!
• Freezing: These stuffed peppers freeze well! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.

Great Combinations for Easy Stuffed Peppers

Serving Easy Stuffed Peppers is a delightful experience, as they pair wonderfully with various dishes and occasions. Here are some fantastic combinations you might consider:

• Side Salads: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the peppers beautifully, balancing out the rich filling.
• Grains: Serve with a side of quinoa or couscous for a wholesome meal that’s packed with nutrition.
• Family Dinners: These stuffed peppers are perfect for family gatherings, bringing everyone together around the dinner table.
• Picnics: They make for an excellent picnic food! Just pack them in a container, and you’re ready to enjoy.
• Casual Lunches: Perfect for leftovers, these peppers are great for lunch the next day, offering a satisfying meal on the go.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Whether it’s summer barbecues or cozy fall dinners, Easy Stuffed Peppers fit the bill all year round.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in the fridge, and enjoy them for up to three days!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Easy Stuffed Peppers are not just a dish; they’re a heartwarming meal that brings families together. With their beautiful presentation and flavorful filling, they make dining a delightful experience. I encourage you to try making these at home and see how they can quickly become a favorite at your table!

Easy Stuffed Peppers

A delightful and vibrant dish, Easy Stuffed Peppers are perfect for any occasion. Packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and topped with melted cheese, these peppers are not only satisfying but also healthy. You’ll love how easy they are to make, making them an ideal weeknight dinner option.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 5 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 Tbsp Avocado Oil
• 1 medium-sized Yellow Onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 2 Tbsp Chili Powder
• 1 cup Chopped Tomatoes I use cherry tomatoes because it’s what I had on hand
• ½ cup Chicken or Beef Broth
• 1 cup Cooked Brown or White Rice
• 5 to 6 medium-sized Bell Peppers colors of choice
• ¾ tsp Sea Salt to taste
• 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese

Instructions

 

• Pour the avocado oil into a large thick-bottomed pot and heat to medium-high.
• Stir in the chopped yellow onion and sauté until translucent, about five minutes.
• Add the ground beef and allow it to brown for a couple of minutes before breaking it into smaller bits and mixing it with the onion.
• Stir in the remaining ingredients except for the cooked rice and cook at a full boil for eight to ten minutes.
• Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the cooked rice.
• Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
• Cut the tops off of the bell peppers and remove the core.
• Fill the bell peppers with the ground beef mixture.
• Place the stuffed peppers in a deep casserole dish and cover with foil.
• Bake in the oven for thirty minutes.
• Remove the foil and sprinkle each pepper with mozzarella cheese. Bake for another ten minutes.
• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Tip 1: Replace the chopped tomatoes and broth with 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes if desired.
• Tip 2: You can also use Jack cheese or cheddar cheese.

Keyword Easy Dinner Ideas, Family-Friendly Recipes, Healthy Stuffed Peppers, Stuffed Peppers Recipe

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.