Cozy Classic Stuffed Peppers for a Homemade Dinner Delight
Enjoying a warm and hearty meal is one of life’s simple pleasures. And what could be cozier than classic stuffed peppers? This dish brings together vibrant bell peppers, savory ground beef, and a blend of delightful seasonings. It’s a comfort food that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner with friends, stuffed peppers can bring everyone together around the table.
Why Make This Recipe
Stuffed peppers are not just tasty; they are also incredibly versatile. You can use different types of protein, grains, and vegetables to customize them to your liking. They are perfect for using up leftover ingredients, making them a fantastic option for those who want to reduce food waste. Additionally, stuffed peppers are visually appealing, with their colorful exteriors, and they offer a balanced meal in one dish.
This recipe is forgiving and flexible. You can substitute ingredients according to your dietary needs or what you have on hand. If you’re looking for a nutritious meal that requires minimal cleanup, stuffed peppers are a brilliant choice. Plus, they can be easily made ahead of time, making dinner preparation a breeze on busy days.
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Classic Stuffed Peppers for a Cozy Homemade Dinner Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A cozy, homemade classic featuring tender bell peppers stuffed with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and melted cheese — a comforting dinner that’s hearty, colorful, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
4 whole bell peppers
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup diced tomatoes, drained
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash the bell peppers, cut off the tops, and remove seeds and membranes; set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
5. Add ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned; drain excess fat if needed.
6. Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let flavors blend, then remove from heat and fold in half of the mozzarella cheese.
8. Stuff each pepper with the meat and rice mixture and place upright in a baking dish.
9. Top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, until peppers are tender.
11. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
12. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.
Notes
Use firm, colorful bell peppers for the best presentation and flavor.
Try different fillings — substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein.
Add vegetables like spinach, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
To prepare ahead, stuff the peppers and refrigerate overnight before baking.
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months for easy reheating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pepper
How to Make Classic Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients:
- 4 whole Bell Peppers (can substitute with poblanos or zucchini)
- 1 pound Ground Beef (can be replaced with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative)
- 1 cup Cooked Rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 cup Diced Tomatoes (drained)
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (or individual herbs like oregano and basil)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (or cheddar)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (finely grated)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (or vegetable/canola oil)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
Directions: Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Peppers: Start by washing the bell peppers. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes. You want to create a hollow space that can hold the filling. Set the peppers aside.
Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing it to become fragrant.
Add the Ground Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Brown the meat for about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Flavor the Mixture: Once the meat is cooked, add the cooked rice to the skillet. Mix in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (after draining), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat so the flavors can meld together.
Cheese Time: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in half of the mozzarella cheese. This will give your filling a cheesy, gooey texture.
Stuff the Peppers: Take each hollowed-out pepper and stuff it generously with the meat and rice mixture. Place the filled peppers upright in a baking dish.
Top with Cheese: Once all the peppers are filled, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the finely grated Parmesan cheese on top for a delightful cheesy crust.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. The peppers should be tender but not mushy. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to get bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve: After removing the peppers from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Classic Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own, but you can elevate your presentation with a few sides. Consider serving them alongside a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread for extra delight. A light pasta or grain dish also pairs well. Don’t forget to provide extra tomato sauce or a tangy yogurt dressing on the side for dipping.
How to Store Classic Stuffed Peppers
If you have leftovers, storing stuffed peppers is simple. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed peppers. To do this, wrap each pepper well in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
Tips to Make Classic Stuffed Peppers
Choose the Right Peppers: Select firm bell peppers without blemishes for the best results. You can also experiment with different colors, like red, yellow, or orange, for added sweetness.
Be Creative with Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling. You can use quinoa, beans, or even lentils as a base for a healthy twist. Adding vegetables like spinach, corn, or zucchini can enhance the filling’s nutrition.
Spice Levels: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling.
Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and stuff the peppers the night before, then just pop them in the oven when ready to eat.
Variations
While the classic beef and rice mixture is delicious, you can make various variations of stuffed peppers to keep things exciting:
- Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers: Use black beans, corn, and spinach as the filling. Pair it with brown rice or quinoa for a nutritious option.
- Mexican-Style Stuffed Peppers: Incorporate taco seasoning, beans, and corn, and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers: Mix ground lamb with feta cheese, olives, and Mediterranean vegetables for a unique spin.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or beans for a vegetarian version.
Can I prepare the stuffed peppers in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Cover them and store them in the fridge. Bake them when you are ready to serve.
How do I know when the peppers are done cooking?
The peppers should be tender but still hold their shape. You can check by inserting a fork or knife; it should go in easily but not be mushy.
Classic stuffed peppers are a timeless dish that can fit into any lifestyle. They are an easy, satisfying meal that can please even picky eaters. Enjoy preparing this cozy recipe for a delightful dinner that warms the heart and the home!