Stuffed peppers are a classic comfort food that combines savory flavors and vibrant colors into a single dish. This Easy Stuffed Peppers Recipe takes the traditional concept of stuffing peppers and simplifies it, making it accessible even for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a hearty meal or just need a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Filled with a delicious blend of ground meat, rice, and spices, and topped with melted cheese, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a family favorite.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through each step of making these delightful stuffed peppers, including preparation, cooking, and tips for perfecting the dish. Plus, we’ll delve into the benefits of the main ingredients and how they contribute to the overall flavor and nutritional value of the meal.
Ingredients for Easy Stuffed Peppers Recipe
To make this Easy Stuffed Peppers Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Easy Stuffed Peppers
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and cut the bell peppers: Slice the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly so they stand upright. Place the peppers in a baking dish, cut side up.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the filling into each prepared bell pepper, packing it down gently to ensure they are well-stuffed.
- Top each pepper with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Peppers
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the tops from burning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Serve the stuffed peppers with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are not only colorful and visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and dietary fiber. The natural sweetness of bell peppers complements the savory filling, adding a layer of depth to the dish.
Ground Beef
Ground beef is a staple in many stuffed pepper recipes due to its rich flavor and satisfying texture. It provides protein and essential nutrients such as iron and zinc. You can opt for lean ground beef to reduce fat content, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Rice
Rice serves as a hearty base for the stuffing mixture, providing a substantial texture that complements the ground meat. It also helps to absorb the flavors of the spices and sauces used in the recipe. Depending on your preference, you can use white rice, brown rice, or even a wild rice blend.
Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce
Tomatoes add a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the filling, enhancing the overall taste of the stuffed peppers. The acidity of the tomatoes helps to balance the richness of the meat and cheese. Tomato sauce also contributes to the moisture and flavor of the filling.
Cheese
Cheese adds a deliciously gooey and savory topping to the stuffed peppers. It melts beautifully over the filling, creating a comforting layer of flavor. Depending on your taste, you can choose from cheddar, mozzarella, or any other cheese that melts well.
Spices and Herbs
Oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper are key to creating a well-seasoned filling. These spices and herbs infuse the stuffing with aromatic flavors that enhance the overall taste of the dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your personal preferences.
In summary, this Easy Stuffed Peppers Recipe is a straightforward and satisfying meal that combines wholesome ingredients into a delicious dish. By following these simple steps, you can create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and hearty textures of this classic recipe, and don’t forget to customize it to suit your tastes!
