Stuffed Bell Peppers
Course: Lunch, DinnerDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes40
minutes50
minutesFlavorful ground beef, rice, garlic, and cheese stuffed in a juicy bell pepper.
Ingredients
8 bell peppers, any color
2 lbs ground beef
3-5 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups shredded cheese, cheddar
1/4 cup pickled jalapenos, small dice
3 tbsp Sriracha hot sauce
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp salt, kosher
1/2 tbsp pepper, fresh ground
1/2 tbsp garlic salt
- For the Rice
1 cup rice, basmati
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1/2 (15 oz) can of tomato sauce
1/2 tube (4.56 oz) of tomato paste
1/2 tbsp cumin
2-4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tbsp chili powder
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Directions
- Rice
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan on medium-high heat. Fry the rice until lightly browned.
- Bring down to medium heat. Add tomato paste and sauce, stir and let cook for 5 more minutes.
- Add chicken broth, cumin, garlic, and chili powder.
- Bring to a boil then down to a simmer and let the rice cook for 20 minutes covered. Remove from heat and let the rice sit for 5 minutes.
- Ground Beef
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Cook the ground beef on medium-high heat. Wait until almost fully cooked, then drain excess fat in a grease-proof container.
- Season the meat with salt, pepper, garlic salt, onion powder, diced jalapeños, garlic, and sriracha sauce.
- Combine the ground beef and rice in a large bowl.
- Prep the bell peppers by cutting off just the tops and removing any seeds.
- Fill the bell peppers with meat and rice mixture, then place on a sheet pan. Add cheese on top and cook for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and the bell peppers are soft.
- Remove from the oven and enjoy!
Notes
- I also love adding onion in to the ground beef for a little extra flavor.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a versatile and colorful dish that can cater to a wide range of palates and dietary preferences. This makes them a beloved meal option for many. Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or vegan, the beauty of stuffed bell peppers lies in their ability to be filled with a myriad of ingredients, ensuring there’s a recipe out there for everyone.
Bell peppers, the vibrant vessels for these delicious fillings, are not only eye-catching but packed with vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, while also providing fiber and antioxidants. The fillings can range from ground meats, grains like quinoa or rice, beans, vegetables, and cheeses, to nuts and dried fruits for a sweet twist. This versatility makes stuffed bell peppers a fantastic option for meal prepping, as they can be prepared ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.
When it comes to perfecting stuffed bell peppers, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind. Firstly, choosing the right bell peppers is crucial; look for ones that are large and have a flat bottom so they stand up easily in your baking dish. Secondly, you can pre-cook your bell peppers slightly before stuffing them to help ensure they are perfectly tender once baked. Lastly, don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings and seasonings. Experimenting with different cuisines can turn this simple dish into a culinary adventure, from Italian-inspired versions with mozzarella and basil to a Mexican twist featuring cilantro, lime, and black beans.
Stuffed bell peppers are more than just a meal; they are a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply spice up your weeknight dinner routine, stuffed bell peppers offer a nutritious and delicious solution. So next time you’re in the kitchen, consider reaching for those bright, beautiful bell peppers and see where your culinary imagination takes you.
I hope you try this recipe! It’s certain to become a regular on your list. Check out our Pasta Allá Vodka recipe here!