Hello, fellow food lovers! Are you looking for a meal that’s not only colorful but also packed with flavor and nutrition? I’ve got just the thing for you: stuffed bell peppers! I absolutely adore making these because they’re so versatile and easy. You can fill them with whatever you have on hand, and they make for a beautiful presentation on the dinner table. They’re quick to whip up, and let’s be honest—who can resist a fun, edible bowl?
Nutritional Benefits
Bell peppers are not just pretty; they are also a powerhouse of nutrients! They are rich in vitamins A and C, which are fantastic for boosting your immune system. Plus, they contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation. By stuffing them with lean protein like turkey or quinoa, you create a balanced meal that is both hearty and wholesome. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies too!
Adaptable Variations
- For a Vegetarian Delight: Swap out meat for black beans and quinoa for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
- Spice It Up!: If you love some heat, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
- Grains Galore: Experiment with different grains like farro or brown rice instead of white rice for added texture and nutrition.
Quick & Delicious Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium bell peppers (any color you like!)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice (brown or white)
- 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes—don’t forget to save those tops for later use if you want!
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
- Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the meat. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Fill each bell pepper with the mixture, packing it in gently. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some on top.
- Place the stuffed peppers into the baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes. If you added cheese, uncover in the last 10 minutes to let it melt and become bubbly!
- Let them cool for a few minutes before serving—dig in and enjoy!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you’d like softer peppers, parboil them in boiling water for about 5 minutes before stuffing.
- These peppers can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or even frozen for a quick meal later on!
- Consider serving with a side salad or some nice crusty bread to round out the meal.
Did you give these stuffed bell peppers a try? I can’t wait to hear how they turned out for you! Snap a picture and share it with me on Pinterest—I love seeing your versions of my recipes!
