Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Description

These Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers are colorful, hearty, and comforting. Sweet bell peppers are filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and herbs, then topped with melted cheese and baked until tender and bubbly.

Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. Place peppers upright in a lightly greased baking dish.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes.
5. Add garlic and ground beef. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking the beef apart, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
6. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes.
7. Spoon the filling evenly into the bell peppers.
8. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar over each pepper.
10. Bake uncovered for another 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 700 mg

Health Benefits

• Bell peppers provide vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Ground beef provides protein, iron, and vitamin B12.
• Tomatoes contain antioxidant compounds such as lycopene.
• Onions and garlic add beneficial plant compounds and flavor.
• Using lean beef and moderate cheese can make the meal more balanced.

Pro Tips

• Use a mixture of red, yellow, and green peppers for a colorful presentation.
• For softer peppers, boil them for 3–4 minutes before stuffing.
• Use leftover cooked rice to make this recipe even quicker.
• Add mushrooms, spinach, corn, or black beans for extra vegetables and fiber.
• For a lower-carb version, replace the rice with cauliflower rice.

Q&A

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey is an excellent substitute.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare and stuff the peppers, refrigerate them covered, and bake when ready.

Q: Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes. Cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to about 3 months.

Q: What cheese works best?
Mozzarella gives excellent meltiness, while cheddar adds stronger flavor. Monterey Jack is another great option.

Q: Can I make them without rice?
Absolutely. Use cauliflower rice, quinoa, extra vegetables, or beans instead.