STUFFED BELL PEPPERS
Stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort food that’s both hearty and full of flavor. Tender bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and melted cheese, then baked in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. This easy recipe is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or serving guests, and it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Medium green bell peppers | 6 |
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Spanish Rice-A-Roni | 1 (6 7/8 oz) box |
| Tomato sauce | 1 (16 oz) can |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Canned tomatoes (for preparing the rice) | 1 (14 1/2 oz) can |
| Shredded cheddar or American cheese | 1 cup |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice
Cook the Spanish Rice-A-Roni according to the package instructions, using the canned tomatoes as directed. Once cooked, stir the rice into the beef and onion mixture until evenly combined.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Arrange the prepared peppers upright in a baking dish. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper until full.
Mix the sugar into the tomato sauce and pour the sauce around the peppers, avoiding the tops.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over each pepper, and continue baking uncovered for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the peppers from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon some of the tomato sauce from the baking dish over each pepper for extra flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Green peppers provide a classic flavor, but red, yellow, or orange peppers are excellent alternatives if you prefer a sweeter taste.
- Try using different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, to change the flavor.
- Fresh herbs or your favorite seasonings can easily be added to personalize the filling.
- This recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into a satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different colored bell peppers?
Yes. Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers all work well and offer a slightly sweeter flavor than green peppers.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the stuffed peppers in advance, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Can I make a meatless version?
Absolutely. Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, quinoa, beans, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute.
What side dishes pair well with stuffed peppers?
Serve them with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light soup.
Can leftovers be frozen?
Yes. Allow the peppers to cool completely, then wrap them well and freeze for a convenient future meal.
How can I make them spicier?
Mix diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for extra heat.
These stuffed bell peppers combine tender vegetables, flavorful beef, seasoned rice, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese into a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients to make this timeless recipe your own.
