Description
A comforting dish of vibrant bell peppers filled with savory ground beef, wholesome brown rice, and flavorful spices. These stuffed peppers are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bell Peppers: Wash the peppers thoroughly. Slice off the tops and remove seeds and membranes inside. Trim the bottoms slightly if needed, ensuring they stand upright without cutting a hole. Optionally, blanch them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then cool in ice water for softer peppers.
- Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. Add ground beef, breaking it into smaller pieces, and cook until browned.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to let flavors blend.
- Assemble Peppers: Place the cleaned bell peppers upright in a baking dish. Fill each pepper generously with the beef and rice mixture. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Add a little water or broth to the baking dish to keep the peppers moist. Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes to brown the tops.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with your favorite side salad or crusty bread!
Notes
Customizable Fillings: Stuffed bell peppers can be easily adapted for various diets. Replace ground beef with plant-based proteins like lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option, or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb variation.
Flavor Enhancements: Add spices like cumin, oregano, or fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley to elevate the flavor. Cheese or breadcrumbs on top can add richness and texture if desired.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the filling and clean the peppers in advance to save time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble just before baking for a quick, fresh meal.