Why Make This Recipe
Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers are a tasty and healthy dish that can please the whole family. They are colorful, filling, and packed with flavor. This recipe is also easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that looks great on the table.
How to Make Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, cook the chopped onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- If desired, remove foil, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Serve the stuffed peppers warm on a plate. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side salad. You can also add some extra toppings like fresh herbs or a drizzle of sauce for added flavor.
How to Store Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
If you have leftovers, you can store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Choose bell peppers that are firm and have a bright color for the best flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
- You can add other vegetables or spices to the filling if you like.
- Consider using different types of cheese according to your preference.
Variation
You can make vegetarian stuffed peppers by replacing the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or corn for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork instead of ground beef.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
How do I know when the stuffed peppers are done?
The peppers should be tender, and the filling should be hot throughout. The cheese, if used, should be melted and bubbly.
Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A colorful and filling dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, packed with flavor and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, cook the chopped onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- If desired, remove foil, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Choose firm bell peppers for the best flavor. Season to taste and feel free to add more vegetables or spices as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg