EASY STUFFED BELL PEPPERS: A Colorful & Delicious Classic 🫑✨🍽️
1. Introduction
Discover one of the easiest and most appealing easy recipes — easy stuffed bell peppers. This flavorful dish combines vibrant bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of meats, grains, and vegetables. Whether you’re a busy parent or a home cook looking for an easy easy dinner idea, these stuffed peppers are a perfect solution. They are nutritious, colorful, and customizable, making them an ideal easy stuffed bell peppers recipe for any occasion.
2. Ingredients for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green, or multi-colored)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or plant-based alternative)
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prepare the Bell Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and set aside.
Sauté Filling Ingredients
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef or turkey, cooking until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
Stuff the Bell Peppers
Fill each bell pepper with the prepared meat and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling nicely. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
Bake the Pumped Peppers
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top of each stuffed pepper. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish & Serve
Once baked, garnish the easy stuffed bell peppers with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
4. Storage Tips and Reheating
Leftover easy stuffed bell peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. For best results, avoid freezing as peppers may become mushy upon thawing.
5. Serving Suggestions for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
Pair your easy stuffed bell peppers with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a nutritious dinner. For an added punch of flavor, drizzle with hot sauce or serve with a dollop of sour cream. These stuffed peppers also make excellent meal prep options—just store and reheat as needed.
6. FAQs About Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
Can I make easy stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the stuffed peppers in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake when ready. They can also be assembled a day ahead for added convenience.
What are some variations for stuffed bell peppers?
Vary the filling by using cooked beans, different cheeses, or vegetarian options such as sautéed vegetables or lentils. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for a different flavor profile.
Are there healthy alternatives to traditional cheese?
Yes. Try using dairy-free cheese, nutritional yeast, or omit cheese altogether for a lower-fat, vegan-friendly version of these easy stuffed bell peppers.
7. Additional Resources & Recommended Tools
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Perfect for preparing your filling with ease
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – For quick and crispy toppings
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Simplify chopping vegetables for your stuffing
8. Related Delicious Recipes to Try
9. Conclusion
Easy stuffed bell peppers are a versatile, nutritious, and colorful addition to your dinner rotation. Their simplicity makes them a perfect easy recipe for busy weeknights and weekend gatherings alike. With endless customization options, these stuffed peppers ensure everyone leaves the table satisfied and craving more. Give this easy easy dish a try today and enjoy a delightful, wholesome meal that’s quick to prepare and easy to love.
Print
EASY STUFFED BELL PEPPERS
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Includes Gluten
Description
Discover the delicious simplicity of Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers — a colorful, nutritious, and customizable meal perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners. Filled with savory meats, grains, and fresh vegetables, this classic dish is both satisfying and visually appealing, making it an ideal addition to any meal plan.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green, or multi-colored)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or plant-based alternative)
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef or turkey, cooking until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Fill each bell pepper with the prepared meat and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling nicely. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top of each stuffed pepper. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once baked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use different colored bell peppers for a more vibrant presentation.
- You can prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time and store in the refrigerator.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with sautéed vegetables, beans, or lentils.
- Omitting cheese makes this dish vegan-friendly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American