Stuffed Peppers Beef Rice Cheese
Highlighted under: Soulful Supper Recipes
Delicious bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of beef, rice, and melted cheese, perfect for a hearty meal.
Stuffed peppers are a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese, all baked inside vibrant bell peppers. It's a one-dish meal that is not only filling but also visually appealing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for a family dinner
- Flavorful blend of beef, rice, and cheese
- Customizable with your favorite spices and add-ins
A Flavorful Family Meal
Stuffed peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition. The combination of bell peppers, ground beef, and rice makes for a hearty meal that can satisfy even the hungriest of diners. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, as it brings everyone together around the table. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some vegetables, making it a well-rounded option for your loved ones.
The beauty of stuffed peppers lies in their versatility. You can easily customize the filling based on your family's preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer a spicier kick with jalapeños or a vegetarian twist with black beans, the possibilities are endless. This recipe serves as a delicious base that you can adapt to create your own unique version.
Easy Preparation and Cleanup
One of the best things about this stuffed peppers recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking steps, you can have a scrumptious meal ready in no time. The prep work is straightforward: chop, mix, and stuff. Plus, using just one baking dish means fewer dishes to clean up afterward, giving you more time to relax with your family.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. You can even prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, making the assembly a breeze when you're ready to cook. Just stuff the peppers, pop them in the oven, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
A Dish for Every Occasion
Stuffed peppers are incredibly versatile and can be served on various occasions. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a potluck with friends, or even a festive holiday gathering, this dish can fit right in. They not only taste amazing but also look stunning on the table, making them a great centerpiece for any meal.
You can also make this dish ahead of time and reheat it when needed, making it perfect for meal prep. This means you can enjoy the flavors of stuffed peppers throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day. Simply store them in the fridge and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly drizzle the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
Cook the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Mix the Ingredients
Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat. Stir in half of the shredded cheese.
Stuff the Peppers
Carefully fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes them ideal for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious option ready to go during the week. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal even on your busiest days.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed peppers can be served with a variety of side dishes to make your meal even more satisfying. Consider pairing them with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner experience. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish and add a burst of flavor.
For a fun twist, serve the stuffed peppers over a bed of quinoa or couscous instead of rice. This not only adds a different texture but also increases the nutritional content of your meal. Experimenting with different grains can make each serving a new adventure in flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
Stuffed peppers are a nutrient-dense meal option that offers a variety of health benefits. Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants that support immune function and skin health. They also provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel full longer.
The combination of protein from the ground beef and carbohydrates from the rice ensures that this meal is both filling and energizing. You can easily make it healthier by using lean ground beef or substituting it with turkey or chicken. Additionally, incorporating whole grain rice or quinoa boosts the fiber content, making this dish a wholesome choice for any day of the week.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will make the dish leaner.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! Freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake when ready to eat.
→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?
These stuffed peppers can be served with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Stuffed Peppers Beef Rice Cheese
Delicious bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of beef, rice, and melted cheese, perfect for a hearty meal.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Soulful Supper Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly drizzle the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat. Stir in half of the shredded cheese.
Carefully fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g