Delicious stuffed peppers filled with savory ingredients by Chef John.

Why Make This Recipe

Chef John’s Stuffed Peppers are a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of ground beef, rice, and fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a hearty family meal. The peppers are not only colorful but also nutritious. They are filled with a savory mixture that is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, this dish can be made ahead of time, making it easy to prepare for busy evenings.

How to Make Chef John’s Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients:

4 large bell peppers
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup tomato sauce
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
In a skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Fill each bell pepper with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and add a little water to the bottom of the dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the peppers are tender.

How to Serve Chef John’s Stuffed Peppers

Serve the stuffed peppers warm, straight from the oven. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a simple green salad for a complete meal. For extra flavor, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs can be added on top.

How to Store Chef John’s Stuffed Peppers

If you have leftovers, you can store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container. Place them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Chef John’s Stuffed Peppers

Choose firm, fresh bell peppers for the best results.
Customize the filling by adding vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more nutrition.
For a spicier flavor, add crushed red pepper or jalapeños to the meat mixture.
If you like, you can use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

Variation

You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, use black beans or lentils in place of meat.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bell peppers for stuffed peppers?
Yes, frozen bell peppers work well. Just thaw them before stuffing and baking.

2. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to stuff the peppers.

3. What can I serve with stuffed peppers?
Stuffed peppers pair well with a simple salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.