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Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 150 reviews

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe combines lean ground beef, brown rice, and a flavorful tomato-based filling baked inside fresh bell peppers, topped with melted cheddar jack cheese and garnished with parsley for a hearty and healthy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 Medium Onion (diced)
  • 2–3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
  • 1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice
  • 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can)
  • 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
  • 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika
  • Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)

Pepper and Topping

  • 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)
  • 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
  • Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and arrange the hollowed bell peppers, cut side up, in a baking dish or a rimmed tray to prepare for stuffing and baking.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, then stir in the minced garlic cloves and cook for about 1 more minute, releasing their aroma.
  3. Cook Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pan and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon for about 5-6 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  4. Mix Filling Ingredients: Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Continue cooking until the sauce slightly reduces, about 4-5 minutes. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Stuff Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each prepared bell pepper cavity, filling them generously.
  6. Bake Peppers: Place the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the peppers are mostly tender but still hold their shape.
  7. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over each stuffed pepper and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

Notes

  • Use brown rice for added fiber and nutrients; white rice can be substituted based on preference.
  • Adjust paprika to taste; smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor.
  • You can substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for ground beef to reduce fat content.
  • For a vegetarian version, replace meat with cooked lentils or beans.
  • Be careful not to overbake the peppers to keep a nice texture without becoming mushy.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.

Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, baked peppers, ground beef recipe, healthy stuffed peppers, easy dinner recipe

Find it online: https://savorandsimmer.com/easy-stuffed-bell-peppers-recipe/