Flavor-Packed Stuffed Bell Peppers for Easy Weeknight Dinner

© Original Recipe By Serena’s Flavor Lab ©

Flavor-Packed Stuffed Bell Peppers for Easy Weeknight Dinner 🌶️🍽️✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a quick, nutritious, and delicious dinner idea, look no further than these stuffed bell peppers. This easy bell pepper recipe combines colorful peppers with savory fillings, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Loaded with ground beef and seasoned to perfection, these stuffed peppers are a comforting and healthy choice that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a rookie in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, customizable, and guaranteed to impress.

2. Ingredients for Stuffed Bell Peppers

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Feel free to customize the filling with ingredients like black beans, corn, or different cheeses to suit your taste. For a comprehensive list of kitchen tools that can streamline your cooking process, check out our recommendations in the compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer and T-fal 14-piece cookware set.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Stuffed Bell Peppers

Preparing the Bell Peppers

Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside with a little olive oil, then set aside.

Cooking the Filling

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Stuffing the Peppers

Divide the beef mixture evenly among the prepared bell peppers. Fill each pepper generously and place them upright in a baking dish.

Baking the Stuffed Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top of each stuffed pepper, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Your Stuffed Bell Peppers

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot alongside a fresh salad or your favorite side dish. For an even quicker meal, you can prepare these stuffed peppers using an Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Stuffed Bell Peppers

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. These hearty stuffed peppers reheat well and can even be frozen for future meals—just wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Stuffed Bell Peppers

This easy bell pepper recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread. For a complete meal, try serving these stuffed peppers alongside our garlic Parmesan chicken skewers. They also work great as meal prep for busy weekdays.

6. FAQs about Stuffed Bell Peppers

Can I make stuffed peppers vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based protein. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare this stuffed bell pepper recipe?

The entire process, from prepping to baking, takes approximately 50-60 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or feta for varied flavors.

What are some quick substitutions for fresh ingredients?

Canned diced tomatoes can be used instead of fresh; frozen rice or pre-cooked grains save time, too. For more kitchen hacks, visit our easy creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Using the right tools can make preparing stuffed bell peppers even easier. Consider adding these essentials to your kitchen arsenal:

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — perfect for cooking or reheating peppers quickly and evenly.
• T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set — ensures even cooking of your beef filling and easy cleanup.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer — great for grilling or crisping your peppers without oven use.

8. Final Tips for Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Choose firm, colorful bell peppers for the best flavor and presentation.
• Do not overstuff the peppers to prevent them from falling apart.
• Adding a splash of hot sauce or a dash of chili flakes can give your dish a spicy kick.
• Adjust cooking times depending on the size of your peppers and filling density.

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, these stuffed bell peppers are an easy bell pepper recipe that offers hearty flavors, colorful presentation, and a quick cooking process. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests, this dish is versatile and customizable. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a nutritious, satisfying meal in under an hour. Try this flavorful stuffed bell pepper recipe today and enjoy a delicious dinner that everyone will rave about!

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