Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers – A Classic, Comforting Favorite
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Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Welcome to this delicious journey of making Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers. These savory delights are not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. Imagine tender bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of meat, rice, and spices, baked to perfection. Let’s dive into the world of culinary delight with this simple yet impressive recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe will become a favorite in your household:
1. It’s a one-dish meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
2. The combination of bell peppers, meat, and rice offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
3. This recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your preferences.
4. It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters.
5. The leftovers taste even better the next day!
Ingredients
For this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color you prefer)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onions and garlic, and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Stuff the bell peppers with the meat mixture and place them in a baking dish.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to slightly brown the tops.
Serving Suggestions
Once your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are ready, serve them hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. These make a satisfying meal on their own, but you can also pair them with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete dinner experience.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to put a twist on this classic recipe, here are some creative variations you can try:
– Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
– Add cooked quinoa or couscous for a different texture.
– Mix in some shredded cheese to the filling for extra creaminess.
– Spice it up with some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Pro Tips for Success
For the best results with your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers:
– Choose bell peppers that are firm and have flat bottoms to stand upright in the baking dish.
– Pre-cook the bell peppers in boiling water for 5 minutes before stuffing to shorten the baking time.
– Feel free to get creative with the filling ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
– Make a double batch and freeze the extras for a quick and convenient meal later on.
FAQs
1. Can I use different colored bell peppers for this recipe?
Yes, feel free to mix and match different colored bell peppers for a visually appealing presentation.
2. How long will the leftovers last in the fridge?
Your leftover Stuffed Bell Peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat alternative of your choice.
4. Can I prepare these Stuffed Bell Peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Stuffed Bell Peppers ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake them.
5. Can I freeze these Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Yes, these Stuffed Bell Peppers freeze well. Just make sure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor that is sure to please your palate. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a cozy night in, these Stuffed Bell Peppers will always be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
Tender bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices, baked to perfection. A satisfying one-dish meal that is versatile, nutritious, and perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color you prefer)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Add onions and garlic, cook until softened.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Stuff bell peppers with meat mixture, place in a baking dish.
- Cover with foil, bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.
- Remove foil, bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown tops.
