\

Stuffed Bell Peppers

by

Introduction

Stuffed Bell Peppers are a wholesome, satisfying dish featuring tender roasted peppers filled with a savory mixture of seasoned meat, rice, and tomato sauce, then baked with melty cheese. It’s a timeless meal that’s as nourishing as it is comforting.

Origin

Stuffed vegetables appear in cuisines around the world, from Mediterranean dolmas to Eastern European stuffed peppers. This version reflects a classic American-style adaptation, combining familiar pantry ingredients into a family-friendly meal.

Cultural Significance

Stuffed peppers symbolize resourceful home cooking—stretching simple ingredients into a complete, balanced dish. They’re a staple of weeknight dinners and Sunday meals alike.

Ingredients and Quantities

  • 6 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 450 g (1 lb) ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Optional Additions

  • Mushrooms or zucchini, diced
  • Black beans or corn
  • Red pepper flakes for heat
  • Parmesan cheese topping

Tips for Success

  1. Parboil Peppers: Ensures tender texture.
  2. Season the Filling Well: Peppers need bold flavor.
  3. Don’t Overstuff: Allows even cooking.
  4. Cover First: Prevents drying.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Prepare Peppers:
    • Slice tops off peppers, remove seeds.
    • Boil peppers for 3–5 minutes; drain.
  4. Make Filling:
    • Heat olive oil in skillet.
    • Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
    • Add ground meat; cook until browned.
    • Stir in rice, tomato sauce, seasonings.
  6. Stuff Peppers:
    • Fill peppers evenly with mixture.
    • Place upright in baking dish.
  8. Bake:
    • Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes.
    • Uncover, top with cheese, bake 10–15 minutes until melted.
  10. Serve:
    • Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Description

Tender bell peppers cradle a savory, juicy filling with melted cheese on top. Each bite delivers warmth, balance, and classic comfort.

Nutritional Information (per pepper, approx.)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Sodium: 540 mg

Values vary by ingredients.

Conclusion

Stuffed Bell Peppers are a complete meal wrapped in a colorful package. They’re comforting, nutritious, and perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping.

Recommendation

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. Leftovers reheat beautifully.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Use lean meat, brown rice, or quinoa for added nutrition, and load in extra vegetables to keep this dish wholesome and balanced.

Leave a Comment