Name: Flavorful Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers for Quick Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Flavorful Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers for Quick Dinner 🌶️🍖🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a satisfying and nutritious meal that comes together quickly, these Stuffed Bell Peppers with ground beef are your perfect solution. Filled with a savory beef mixture and vibrant vegetables, these stuffed peppers are an American comfort food that’s ideal for busy weeknights. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also visually appealing and nutritious, making them a fantastic choice for family dinners or when hosting guests. This beef stuffed peppers recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

2. Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color but red and green are most popular)
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 cup cooked rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican blend)
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Olive oil for cooking

3. Step-by-step Instructions for Preparing Stuffed Bell Peppers

Preparing the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of each pepper with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.

Making the Beef Stuffing

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Mixing the Filling

Stir in the cooked rice (or cauliflower rice), diced tomatoes, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Stuffing the Bell Peppers

Carefully spoon the beef mixture into each prepared bell pepper, pressing lightly to pack the filling. Top each with the remaining shredded cheese to add a cheesy finish.

Baking the Stuffed Bell Peppers

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Stuffed Peppers

Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on high for a minute or two until heated through, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They also freeze well—just wrap tightly and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

5. Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed bell peppers make a complete meal on their own, but you can boost the flavor with a side salad or some crusty bread. For additional flavor, top with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream. If you’re interested in trying other quick and easy dinner ideas, check out this tasty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers for a perfect pairing.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Stuffed Bell Peppers

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative for stuffed peppers. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

What are some healthy substitutions?

Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb version. Also, opt for reduced-fat cheese and add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach to boost nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal for busy weeknights.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make preparing these stuffed bell peppers even easier, consider using high-quality kitchen tools. A sharp Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer helps perfectly oven-roast peppers with less time and effort. A sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even cooking of the filling, while our Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer is excellent if you want to prepare other quick weeknight meals alongside. These tools streamline the cooking process and make cleanup a breeze!

8. Conclusion

Enjoying delicious and hearty stuffed bell peppers has never been so simple. This versatile dish is perfect for a quick dinner that satisfies every family member. Customize the filling with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a colorful, nutritious meal that you can prepare in under an hour. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these beef stuffed peppers are sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Give this recipe a try and impress your loved ones with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

Flavorful Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers for Quick Dinner