Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers are a comforting and wholesome dish that combines the heartiness of seasoned ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a vibrant bell pepper. Baked to perfection, these stuffed peppers not only deliver a punch of flavor but also look stunning on the plate, making them perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With their colorful presentation and rich flavors, they are sure to impress both your family and guests.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The savory filling, seasoned just right, melds beautifully with the sweet, tender peppers, providing a delightful balance. This dish is also versatile and fits well into various diets, making it a great choice for families with different preferences. Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight meal or someone who loves to entertain, these stuffed peppers are sure to satisfy.
Tips and Tricks
To make your Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers even more flavorful and easier to prepare, consider these tips:
- Parboil the peppers for about 5 minutes before stuffing them. This will speed up the cooking process and ensure they are tender by the time the dish is done.
- Experiment with different types of cheese on top, such as mozzarella for a gooey texture or feta for a tangy kick.
- Use leftover rice or quinoa to save time on prep. This dish is an excellent way to use up any grains you have on hand.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
For busy home cooks and meal preppers, you can make parts of this recipe ahead of time:
- The beef filling can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before assembling the peppers.
- You can also stuff the peppers a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.
- Cooked stuffed peppers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Recipe Variations
Get creative with these Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers variations:
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Add beans (black beans or kidney beans) to the filling for extra protein and fiber.
- Try different grains, such as farro or couscous, instead of rice for a unique texture.
- Change the spices to fit your taste; try adding taco seasoning for a Mexican twist, or Italian herbs for a Mediterranean flavor.
How to Serve
When serving your Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers, consider pairing them with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. For a beautiful presentation, plate the peppers upright and drizzle with a balsamic reduction or sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side can also enhance the flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti, complements the savory flavors of the stuffed peppers beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a light margarita or mojito can add a refreshing touch. For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea or lemonade pairs nicely. As for side dishes, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad.
How to Store
To store leftovers of your Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers:
- Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked stuffed peppers. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need:
- A large skillet for cooking the beef and vegetables.
- A baking dish to hold the stuffed peppers while they bake.
- A pot for boiling rice if you’re making it fresh.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for preparing the peppers and filling.
- Optional: A spoon for scooping out the pepper seeds and membranes.
Dietary Adaptations
To make Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers suitable for different dietary needs:
- For a vegan version, use lentils or chickpeas instead of ground beef, and substitute quinoa for rice.
- To make it dairy-free, omit cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- For nut-free options, ensure any sauces or seasonings used are free from nuts or nut derivatives.
- Gluten-free? Simply check labels on any sauces or pre-packaged ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
Depending on the season, you can modify your stuffed pepper recipe:
- In spring, incorporate fresh herbs like chives or green onions for a light flavor.
- Summer is perfect for adding fresh corn or diced tomatoes into the filling.
- In fall, consider using ground turkey and adding pumpkin puree or spices like nutmeg and cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
- During winter, hearty root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes can be mixed into the filling for added nutrition.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use other types of peppers besides bell peppers?
Yes! You can use smaller peppers like poblano or even zucchini if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well. You can also use lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian option.
How long do I cook the stuffed peppers?
Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Can I make these stuffed peppers in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers a day in advance, keeping them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
How To Make Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers are a comforting and wholesome dish that combines the heartiness of seasoned ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a vibrant bell pepper.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through.
- Fill each bell pepper with the beef mixture, pressing down slightly to pack it in. Top with shredded cheese.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Add a splash of water to the bottom of the dish to help steam the peppers while baking.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the peppers are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 523Total Fat 30gSaturated Fat 13gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 129mgSodium 822mgCarbohydrates 23gFiber 2gSugar 5gProtein 40g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you savor them for a quick weeknight dinner or serve them at a gathering, they promise to deliver satisfaction. With the flexibility to adapt to your tastes and dietary needs, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing this delightful dish with loved ones!
