Description
A wholesome and flavorful recipe for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, brown rice, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, baked to perfection and topped with melted cheddar jack cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a nutritious family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Stuffing Mixture
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1½ cups cooked brown rice
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (canned)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Bell Peppers & Topping
- 7 large bell peppers, tops and cores removed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the stuffed peppers.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pan with the onions and garlic. Cook until browned, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, about 6-8 minutes, ensuring even cooking with no pink remaining.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking the mixture until it slightly reduces and thickens, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stuff Peppers: Carefully fill each prepared bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it gently. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish to prevent spilling.
- Bake Peppers: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the bell peppers are tender but still hold their shape.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the peppers from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly on top of each pepper. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the peppers from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm for a hearty and delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Add your favorite herbs or spices like cumin or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
