This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a delightful dish that combines vibrant bell peppers with a savory filling, perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Colorful and nutritious, packed with vitamins
- Simple to make and customizable with various fillings
- Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
Stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic dish that can suit any occasion, whether it's a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week. Their vibrant colors and appealing presentation make them a hit among both kids and adults. Not only are they visually enticing, but they also pack a nutritional punch, ensuring you get a healthy serving of vegetables with each bite.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily substitute ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, switch out the ground beef for chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. You can also mix in additional vegetables or grains, making this a perfect canvas for creativity in the kitchen.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best features of stuffed bell peppers is their suitability for meal prep. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week, store them in the fridge, and enjoy them throughout the week. They reheat well, making them an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners. Simply pop them in the microwave or oven, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in minutes.
Moreover, stuffed bell peppers can be frozen for longer storage. If you want to prepare a larger batch, just freeze the unbaked peppers after stuffing them. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This method not only saves time but also ensures you always have a nutritious meal on hand.
Healthy and Nutritious
Bell peppers are naturally low in calories yet high in vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent choice for a healthy meal. They are rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and provide a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion. By filling them with wholesome ingredients like beans, corn, and lean meat, you create a balanced dish that satisfies both hunger and nutritional needs.
This recipe allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you can avoid processed foods and excess sugars. By preparing your own stuffed peppers, you can create a meal that aligns with your health goals while still being delicious. Plus, the combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Ingredients
Stuffed Bell Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Feel free to customize the filling to your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
Stuff the Peppers
Carefully spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper until they are filled to the top. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed bell peppers are delicious on their own, but they can also be complemented with various sides to make a complete meal. Consider serving them with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices. For an extra burst of flavor, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh lime juice can elevate the dish further.
If you're hosting a gathering, consider offering a taco bar alongside your stuffed peppers. Guests can customize their plates with toppings like avocado, salsa, or guacamole, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.
Storage Tips
To ensure your stuffed bell peppers remain fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. When reheating, make sure to warm them thoroughly to maintain their texture and flavor.
If you decide to freeze your stuffed peppers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and helps retain their flavor. When you're ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking, or bake them straight from the freezer for a convenient meal.
Customization Ideas
The beauty of stuffed bell peppers lies in their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different fillings! You can use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier grain option or add different spices to change the flavor profile completely. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding feta cheese, olives, and herbs like oregano and basil.
Vegetarian options are also plentiful. Swap out the meat for lentils or chickpeas, and add a variety of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delightful dish, regardless of dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare stuffed peppers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.
→ What can I substitute for the meat?
You can use lentils, quinoa, or a variety of chopped vegetables for a vegetarian option.
→ How long do leftovers last?
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! Stuffed peppers freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and they'll last for up to 3 months.
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Created by: Delilah Spencer
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Stuffed Bell Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
Carefully spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper until they are filled to the top. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 18g