Indulge in the comforting and hearty flavors of Stuffed Bell Peppers, a classic dish that combines seasoned ground beef, rice, and a medley of spices all nestled within tender bell pepper shells. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese, these peppers make a satisfying meal that’s as delicious as it is wholesome. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family meal, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a flavorful and filling way.
Stuffed bell peppers are not only versatile but also visually appealing, making them an excellent choice for a dinner that both tastes and looks fantastic.
Preparation and Cooking
A simple and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and packs a punch with its combination of seasonings.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 5-6 dashes hot sauce
- 1 (10 oz) can petite diced tomatoes with green chilies
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Peppers: Cut the bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Place them in a pot of boiling water and cook for 3 minutes to soften slightly. Remove the peppers and place them in a baking dish, cut side up.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked through, drain off the excess grease.
- Season the Beef: Add the chopped green onions to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Then, add the oregano, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Stir to combine the seasonings with the beef.
- Add Tomatoes and Rice: Stir in the can of petite diced tomatoes with their juice, cooking for 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld. Then, stir in the cooked rice until well combined.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper shell, filling them halfway. Sprinkle a little shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling, then continue to fill the peppers, mounding the mixture on top. Sprinkle more shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each pepper.
- Bake the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the stuffed peppers for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Stuffed Bell Peppers hot, with a side of salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They can also be paired with sour cream or salsa for an extra kick.
Tips
- To make this recipe lighter, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils.
These Stuffed Bell Peppers are a perfect combination of savory flavors and satisfying textures. They are sure to become a go-to meal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends!