Stuffed bell peppers with rice, veggies, healthy, flavorful, and easy to make are the perfect dish to brighten up any dinner table. Imagine a vibrant array of colors and aromas wafting through your kitchen as you prepare these delightful bites of goodness. As you cut into the tender bell pepper, the burst of flavors will dance on your palate and leave you craving more.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, eagerly anticipating the deliciousness that awaited us. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, stuffed bell peppers always bring joy and satisfaction to any meal. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that’ll have you dreaming about your next bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Stuffed bell peppers are not only quick to prepare but also offer a flavor-packed experience that will satisfy your cravings
- You can easily customize these peppers based on what’s in your fridge
- The vibrant colors make for a stunning presentation on any dinner table
- Perfect for weeknight meals while being versatile enough for meal prep or gatherings
I still remember the first time I made stuffed bell peppers; my family was so impressed they thought I’d become a gourmet chef overnight.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Bell Peppers: Choose bright, firm peppers; red or yellow add sweetness while green brings a slight bitterness.
-
Cooked Rice: Leftover rice works perfectly; use brown rice for extra fiber or jasmine for added fragrance.
-
Vegetables: A mix of diced onions, tomatoes, and zucchini adds great texture and flavor.
-
Ground Meat (optional): Use lean ground turkey or beef if you prefer meaty filling; it’s all about personal choice.
-
Cheese: A sprinkle of mozzarella or cheddar on top makes everything gooey and delicious.
-
Spices: Season with garlic powder, cumin, and paprika for an irresistible flavor boost.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cooking stuffed bell peppers is simple and fun! Follow these steps to create your masterpiece.
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Prep the Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds. Arrange them upright in the baking dish like colorful little soldiers ready for action.
Create the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions until they turn translucent and fragrant. Add cooked rice, vegetables, spices, and optional ground meat; stir until well combined.
Stuff Those Peppers!: Generously fill each bell pepper with the filling mixture. Don’t be shy; pack them tightly like they’re going on vacation!
Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over each stuffed pepper. Because let’s be honest; cheese makes everything better.
Bake Until Perfectly Tender: Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Enjoy this nutritious feast that bursts with flavors while being incredibly easy to make! You’ll find yourself making these stuffed bell peppers again and again as they quickly become a family favorite.
You Must Know
- Stuffed bell peppers with rice and veggies are a deliciously colorful and nutritious meal
- These beauties not only taste great but also allow endless customization, making them perfect for any palate or occasion
- The vibrant aroma while they cook is simply irresistible!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Sauté your veggies and mix with rice before stuffing the peppers. This sequence ensures everything is cooked evenly and flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in quinoa for rice or add black beans for extra protein. Experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika to give your stuffed bell peppers a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring they retain their delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly balanced flavors, season your rice mixture well before stuffing
- Avoid overcooking the peppers; they should remain slightly crunchy
- Always taste as you go—it’s a game changer!
Cooking stuffed bell peppers is like hosting a dinner party where every guest can customize their dish, making it a fun experience for family and friends.
FAQ
Can I make stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them in advance, refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
What type of rice should I use?
White or brown rice works well; consider using wild rice for an earthy flavor.
Are there vegetarian options for stuffing?
Yes! Use beans, lentils, or tofu as great plant-based filling alternatives.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and nutritious dish that brings joy to any dinner table. Bursting with flavor, these peppers can be easily customized to suit your taste or pantry items. With a blend of rice, veggies, and optional proteins, this dish is not only healthy but also perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Follow our simple recipe to create these delightful bites that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 cups cooked rice (brown or jasmine)
- 1 cup diced vegetables (onions, tomatoes, zucchini)
- 1 lb lean ground turkey or beef (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds; place them upright in the baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions until translucent. Add cooked rice, vegetables, spices, and optional ground meat; mix well.
- Stuff each pepper generously with the filling mixture.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper (225g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
