Classic Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Classic Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Introduction:

Classic Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers are a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines hearty ground beef, aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, all packed into a colorful bell pepper shell.

This dish is a family favorite and is both filling and nutritious, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner.

The sweet and slightly crisp bell peppers contrast beautifully with the savory, cheesy filling, creating a satisfying meal that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Stuffed peppers are versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes, whether you prefer a more traditional meat and rice filling or a low-carb option with cauliflower rice.

This recipe brings out the best flavors by blending classic Italian herbs and seasonings, topped off with a melty layer of cheese.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, these stuffed bell peppers are sure to please.

Ingredients:

4 large bell peppers (any color: green, red, yellow, or orange), halved and seeds removed

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option)

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1/2 cup tomato sauce

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added warmth)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Bell Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the bell peppers in half vertically and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the halved peppers cut-side up in a baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with a pinch of salt to season. Pre-bake the peppers for about 10 minutes to soften them slightly, which will reduce the overall baking time once they are stuffed.

Cook the Beef Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika if using. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Add Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Stuff the Peppers: Remove the pre-baked bell peppers from the oven. Carefully spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper half, pressing down slightly to pack the filling tightly. Fill each pepper generously, slightly mounding the filling on top if necessary.

Top with Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over each stuffed pepper. You can use more or less cheese depending on your preference. The cheese will melt into the filling, adding a creamy texture and delicious flavor to each bite.

Bake the Stuffed Peppers: Place the baking dish back in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The peppers should be tender but still hold their shape.

Garnish and Serve: Once the peppers are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the stuffed peppers warm, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures!

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers:

Choose Fresh, Large Bell Peppers: For the best results, choose bell peppers that are large and uniform in size so they can hold more filling. Red, yellow, and orange peppers are slightly sweeter, while green peppers have a more robust flavor.

Make It Low-Carb: Substitute the cooked rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option that still provides texture.

Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced zucchini, corn, or black beans for added flavor and nutrition.

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or gouda can add unique flavors to the stuffed peppers.

Make It Ahead: The stuffed peppers can be assembled in advance and refrigerated. Simply bake them when ready to serve, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if they’re coming straight from the fridge.

Conclusion:

Classic Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers are a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them a satisfying and wholesome meal for any occasion.

With their beautiful presentation, stuffed peppers are a great choice for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Each bite offers a delicious combination of savory beef, tender rice, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheese, all encased in a sweet and slightly crisp bell pepper shell.

This versatile recipe can be adapted to various dietary preferences and is easily customizable with different ingredients and seasonings.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional stuffed peppers or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Enjoy the warmth, comfort, and satisfaction of this classic dish, and share it with loved ones for a memorable meal. Happy cooking!