Stuffed Bell Peppers
A hearty and nutritious dish featuring bell peppers filled with a savory mix of ground beef, brown rice, and spices, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large large bell peppers Choose vibrant colors for the best presentation.
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, chicken, sausage, or vegetarian substitute) Choose your favorite protein or meat substitute.
- 1 cup cooked brown rice Use leftovers or pre-cooked rice for convenience.
- 1 can diced tomatoes Drain excess liquid if desired.
- 1 small onion, chopped Yellow or white onions work well.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adjust to taste.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season according to preference.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Use your favorite cheese for topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds, ensuring they are clean and ready for stuffing.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Cooking the Filling
- Add the ground beef (or your chosen alternative) and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and allow it to cook for 2-3 more minutes until combined and heated through.
Stuffing and Baking
- Carefully fill each bell pepper with the mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the filled peppers for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers start to soften.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
These stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time, frozen, and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Adjust the filling ingredients for personal preference and dietary needs.