What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These stuffed peppers are a delicious and easy meal that everyone will love. Packed with flavor and simple to make, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Hearty and satisfying – Filled with a tasty mix of meat, rice, and spices, they’re a complete meal in one.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making them versatile for any preference.
- Great for leftovers – They reheat well, so you can enjoy them again the next day for a quick and tasty meal.
Recipe
Stuffed peppers are a classic dish featuring bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and seasonings, then baked to perfection. This hearty and flavorful meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Pour broth into the bottom of the dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until cheese melts.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with quinoa or lentils.
- Peppers can be prepped ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Skillet
- Knife and cutting board
Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
4 servings
Nutrition
Here’s the nutritional information for one serving of stuffed peppers.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
What To Serve With It
When I make stuffed peppers, I love pairing them with a fresh side salad, like a simple spinach or cucumber mix, to add a crisp bite. Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser, too, offering that warm, buttery crunch that complements the peppers perfectly. Try experimenting with these sides to find your favorite combo!
Side Salad Options
Looking for something fresh to pair with stuffed peppers, I often turn to a simple side salad. A mix of greens, like spinach or romaine, adds a crisp contrast to the hearty peppers. I’ll toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of shredded carrots for extra crunch. Sometimes, I add a tangy vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll throw in some avocado slices or crumbled feta for richness. It’s light, invigorating, and balances the meal perfectly. Plus, it’s quick to throw together, which I always appreciate after cooking.
Garlic Bread Pairings
Garlic bread is one of those dishes that pairs well with almost anything, but it shines brightest alongside hearty meals. When I serve stuffed peppers, I always include garlic bread on the side—its crispy crust and soft center complement the peppers perfectly. I love how the garlic butter soaks into the bread, adding richness to every bite. It’s also great for mopping up any sauce left on the plate. Sometimes, I sprinkle Parmesan or parsley on top for extra flavor. Warm garlic bread creates a cozy, comforting vibe, making the meal feel complete without overshadowing the star of the dish.
