Stuffed Bell Peppers

 

Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Classic Comfort Food Packed with Flavor

Stuffed bell peppers are the ultimate comfort food — vibrant, hearty, and endlessly versatile. This dish takes colorful bell peppers and fills them with a delicious mixture of savory ingredients, baked to perfection until tender and bubbling with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, stuffed bell peppers always deliver.

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Why Stuffed Bell Peppers Are a Must-Try

• Beautiful and colorful: A feast for the eyes and the palate

• Nutritious and filling: Packed with vegetables, protein, and grains

• Highly customizable: Swap fillings to suit your taste or dietary needs

• One-dish meal: Easy cleanup and convenient serving

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Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)

• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa

• 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or plant-based alternative

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained) or fresh diced tomatoes

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Olive oil

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.

2. Cook the Filling:
   In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add the ground meat or plant-based substitute and cook until browned. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

3. Stuff the Peppers:
   Spoon the filling evenly into each pepper. Top with shredded cheese.

4. Bake:
   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

5. Serve:
   Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a wholesome meal on its own or with a fresh side salad.

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Tips & Variations:

• Make it vegetarian: Use lentils, beans, or mushrooms instead of meat.

• Add extra veggies: Mix in corn, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition.

• Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeños or chili powder to the filling.

• Cheese alternatives: Try feta or goat cheese for a tangy finish.

• Meal prep friendly: These reheat beautifully for easy lunches or dinners.

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Final Thoughts

Stuffed bell peppers are a comforting and colorful dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. With their satisfying blend of protein, veggies, and cheese, they make a complete meal that everyone will love. Perfect for feeding a family or impressing guests, this classic recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.