This delicious stuffed bell peppers recipe is comfort food at its finest, offering a hearty meal packed with flavorful ground beef, tender rice, and a savory tomato sauce. It's a wholesome dish that is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Each bell pepper is a self-contained serving, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or social gatherings.
The ingredients for this recipe are quite straightforward and easily found in most supermarkets. However, you might want to pay special attention to the Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning. These two ingredients are pivotal in bringing out the robust flavors of the dish. For those not familiar with Worcestershire sauce, it's a fermented liquid condiment created in the city of Worcester in Worcestershire, England. It's used to enhance food and drink recipes. The Italian seasoning is a blend of dried Italian-inspired herbs such as basil, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.
Ingredients for Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Ground beef: This forms the hearty, meaty base of the filling. Choose a lean variety to keep the dish healthier.
Olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, and it adds a subtle richness to the dish.
Yellow onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor that complements the beef.
Garlic: Brings an aromatic and subtly spicy touch to the filling.
Instant white rice: Cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors in the filling.
Tomato sauce: Adds a tangy, sweet base to the filling.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex, tangy depth of flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Enhances the other flavors in the dish.
Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that gives a burst of Italian flavor.
Beef broth: Used to soften the bell peppers and add flavor to the dish.
Bell peppers: The vessel for the filling – choose any color you prefer. They should be large and sturdy.
Parmesan cheese: A hard, salty Italian cheese that adds a delicious final touch to the dish.
One reader, Anthiathia Cowart says:
I recently tried the stuffed bell peppers recipe and it was a hit! The flavors were incredible and the dish was so satisfying. The combination of the beef, rice, and seasonings was perfect. It's now a family favorite and I can't wait to make it again!
Essential Techniques for Making Stuffed Bell Peppers
How to prepare the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain the fat.
How to sauté the onions: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and onions. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent.
How to fill the bell peppers: After preparing the beef and rice mixture, carefully fill each bell pepper half with the mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
How to bake the stuffed bell peppers: Place the filled bell peppers in a baking dish, add beef broth to the dish, and cover tightly with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 60 minutes.
How to garnish with parmesan cheese: Once the stuffed bell peppers are baked, sprinkle them with grated parmesan cheese before serving.
How To Make Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers have a savory and aromatic flavor that goes well as a backdrop to meat dishes. In this recipe, we are making stuffed peppers with ground beef.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbground beef
- 2tbspolive oil
- 1yellow oniondiced
- 2clovesgarlicminced
- 1½cupsinstant white rice
- 1cupwater
- 2cupstomato sauce
- 1tbspWorcestershire sauce
- ½tspkosher salt
- ¼tspblack peppercoarse ground
- 1tspItalian Seasoning
- 2cupsbeef broth
- 6bell pepperscut in half through the stem and cleaned
- parmesan cheeseoptional
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and heat a large skillet on medium-high heat.
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Add in the beef breaking it apart as it cooks then remove it from the skillet and drain the fat.
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Add in the olive oil and onions then reduce the heat to medium, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes.
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Add in the garlic, rice, water, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning along with the ground beef back into the pan and mix it all together.
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Add beef broth and the bell pepper halves to a baking dish and fill with the mixture and bake for 60 minutes wrapped tightly with foil.
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Garnish with Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Calories: 486.99kcal
- Fat: 20.62g
- Saturated Fat: 6.54g
- Trans Fat: 0.89g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.14g
- Carbohydrates: 54.16g
- Fiber: 4.19g
- Sugar: 9.52g
- Protein: 20.26g
- Cholesterol: 53.68mg
- Sodium: 787.98mg
- Calcium: 58.80mg
- Potassium: 947.81mg
- Iron: 3.82mg
- Vitamin A: 208.31µg
- Vitamin C: 159.99mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Stuffed Bell Peppers
When preparing your bell peppers, it's important to choose ones that are firm and have even bottoms. This will ensure they stand upright in the baking dish and cook evenly. Also, when hollowing out the peppers, be careful not to pierce the bottom. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the filling and chop the vegetables the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Uniform shape: Cut the bell peppers evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate, saving time and ensuring even cooking.
Use a rice cooker: Cook the rice in a rice cooker while preparing other ingredients to save time and multitask efficiently.
Double batch: Make a double batch of the filling and freeze half for a quick and easy meal another day.
Pre-cook: Pre-cook the bell peppers in boiling water for a few minutes before stuffing to reduce the overall baking time.
Substitute Ingredients For Stuffed Peppers Recipe
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. It also has a mild flavor that works well in stuffed bell peppers.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point to olive oil and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for sautéing and cooking the ingredients.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to yellow onions and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic.
instant white rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a nutritious alternative to white rice and can be used as a gluten-free option in the stuffed bell peppers recipe.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomato sauce, providing a chunkier texture and rich tomato flavor to the dish.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for worcestershire sauce to add a savory and umami flavor to the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in the same quantity to season the dish.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and slightly different flavor profile to the dish.
Italian seasoning - Substitute with dried oregano, basil, and thyme: A combination of dried oregano, basil, and thyme can be used as a substitute for Italian seasoning to add a similar flavor profile to the dish.
beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth to create a vegetarian version of the stuffed bell peppers recipe.
bell peppers - Substitute with zucchini: Hollowed out zucchinis can be used as a substitute for bell peppers to create a low-carb and gluten-free version of the stuffed peppers recipe.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with asiago cheese: Asiago cheese can be used as a substitute for parmesan cheese, providing a similar nutty and savory flavor to the dish.
How to Beautifully Present Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate the plating: When presenting the stuffed bell peppers, consider using a large, white, or neutral-toned plate to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out. The contrast will make the dish visually appealing and appetizing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the stuffed bell peppers to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a layer of flavor to the dish.
Create a sauce swirl: Use a small squeeze bottle to drizzle some tomato sauce in an artistic swirl on the plate before placing the stuffed bell peppers. This adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Consider adding a few edible flowers, such as nasturtium or pansies, to the plate for a delicate and beautiful touch. Ensure the flowers are safe for consumption and complement the flavors of the dish.
Utilize microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens, such as radish or pea shoots, around the plate to add a subtle hint of freshness and a visually appealing element to the presentation.
Consider the placement: Pay attention to the placement of the stuffed bell peppers on the plate. Opt for odd numbers, such as three or five, and arrange them in a visually pleasing manner to create an attractive and balanced presentation.
Add a finishing touch of parmesan: Before serving, grate a small amount of high-quality parmesan cheese over the stuffed bell peppers. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
- Baking dish: A dish used for baking in the oven, typically made of glass or ceramic.
- Olive oil: A cooking oil made from pressed olives, commonly used for sautéing and dressing.
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for slicing, chopping, and dicing ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Utensils used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
- Skewers: Long, narrow sticks used for holding and grilling food.
- Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for wrapping and covering food during cooking.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for flipping, lifting, and spreading ingredients.
- Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting in the oven.
- Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting hot or delicate foods.
- Grater: A tool used to shred or grate ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or citrus zest.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients.
- Whisk: A utensil with looped wires used for beating, whipping, and blending ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Guide
Let the stuffed bell peppers cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy and help maintain their texture.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled stuffed peppers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freezing is a great option:
- Wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, labeling it with the date.
- Stuffed bell peppers can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat refrigerated stuffed peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat frozen stuffed peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the peppers from the freezer and unwrap them.
- Place the frozen peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- If you prefer, you can thaw the peppers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, which will reduce the reheating time.
How To Reheat Leftover Stuffed Bell Peppers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed bell peppers in an oven-safe dish and cover them with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the peppers from drying out.
If you have a microwave-safe dish, you can reheat the stuffed bell peppers in the microwave. Place them in the dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through. Be careful when removing the dish from the microwave, as it may be hot.
For a crispy top, you can reheat the stuffed bell peppers under the broiler. Place them on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the stuffed bell peppers. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the peppers in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a stovetop option, place the stuffed bell peppers in a covered skillet with a small amount of water or broth. Heat over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to keep the peppers moist and prevents them from sticking to the pan.
Interesting Trivia About Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a versatile dish that can be customized with various fillings such as ground turkey, quinoa, or black beans. They are also a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber.
Is Making Stuffed Bell Peppers at Home Cost-Effective?
This stuffed bell peppers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ground beef, rice, and bell peppers, are affordable and readily available. The dish offers a balanced combination of protein, grains, and vegetables, making it a budget-friendly and nutritious option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, depending on the prices of the ingredients. Considering the simplicity and affordability of the recipe, it earns a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.
Are Stuffed Bell Peppers Healthy or Unhealthy?
This stuffed bell peppers recipe, while tasty, leans towards the unhealthy side due to the use of ground beef and white rice. Ground beef is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess. White rice is a refined grain that lacks fiber and nutrients compared to its whole grain counterparts.
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients such as bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, while onions and garlic offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or a plant-based alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu to reduce saturated fat and increase fiber
- Replace white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for added nutrients and fiber
- Increase the amount of vegetables by adding diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the filling mixture
- Use a low-sodium tomato sauce and reduce the amount of added salt to control sodium intake
- Opt for a reduced-fat cheese or use a smaller amount of parmesan cheese to top the peppers
- Serve the stuffed peppers with a side salad or roasted vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal
By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting dish into a healthier, more balanced meal that still satisfies your taste buds.
Editor's Opinion on Stuffed Bell Peppers
This stuffed bell peppers recipe is a delightful combination of savory flavors and hearty textures. The use of ground beef, aromatic spices, and tender bell peppers creates a comforting and satisfying dish. The addition of parmesan cheese adds a rich and nutty flavor, elevating the overall taste. The cooking method ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a delicious and visually appealing meal. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish, making it a wonderful addition to any meal.
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