What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade stuffed peppers are a crowd-pleaser, filling your kitchen with amazing smells while being super easy to make. First, they’re customizable—use your favorite veggies, meat, or grains to make them your own. Second, they’re packed with flavor, blending seasoned fillings with tender, roasted peppers. Finally, they’re perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, keeping you full and satisfied every time.
Recipe
Stuffed peppers are a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with a savory filling of ground beef, rice, and spices. This classic comfort food is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stuff the mixture evenly into the bell peppers and place them in a baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheese if desired, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or quinoa.
- Use leftover rice to save time.
Equipment:
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Foil
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
Stuffed peppers are a nutritious meal packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 22g
What To Serve With It
When I make stuffed peppers, I love pairing them with sides that bring out their flavor, like a fresh green salad or garlic bread. Sometimes, I’ll add a scoop of rice or quinoa for extra heartiness, especially if I’m feeding a crowd. Choosing complementary flavors, like a tangy yogurt sauce or roasted veggies, can really make the meal shine.
Side Dish Options
A colorful plate of stuffed peppers deserves equally delicious sides to round out the meal, and I’ve got a few favorites that never disappoint. I love pairing them with fluffy garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up any extra sauce. A light, crisp salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness, while roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus add a smoky touch. Sometimes, I opt for creamy mashed potatoes or a simple quinoa pilaf for extra heartiness. For a revitalizing finish, fresh fruit slices or citrus wedges work wonders. These sides make every bite feel complete and satisfying.
Complementary Flavors
Even though stuffed peppers are already packed with flavor, pairing them with the right side dishes can take your meal to the next level. I love serving them with a crisp green salad—the freshness balances the richness perfectly. Garlic bread is another favorite; it soaks up any extra sauce and adds a satisfying crunch. For something heartier, try creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice. If you’re feeling adventurous, a tangy cucumber yogurt salad cuts through the savory notes beautifully. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top—it’s those little touches that make the meal feel special. Experiment and find your perfect combo!
