Stuffed bell peppers ground beef—a dish that’s as comforting as a hug from grandma but without the awkward family stories. Imagine vibrant red and green bell peppers cradling tender ground beef mixed with spices and topped with gooey cheese. The tantalizing aroma wafts through your kitchen like a siren song, beckoning everyone home for dinner.
I remember the first time I made these beauties; my friends thought I was some kind of culinary superhero. Who knew that stuffing vegetables could be so empowering? These little gems are perfect for family gatherings or when you want to impress someone special without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy stuffed bell pepper recipe is a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze
- Packed with flavor, it’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike
- The colorful presentation is a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach
- You can easily customize the filling based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge!
A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe.
When I served these stuffed bell peppers at my last dinner party, my friends devoured them and asked for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Bell Peppers: Choose firm, vibrant ones—red, yellow, or green—for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep it healthy while still being juicy and flavorful.
- Onion: Use yellow onions for their sweetness; they balance out the savory meat beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; don’t skimp on this aromatic hero!
- Tomato Sauce: This brings moisture and tang; choose your favorite brand or homemade.
- Cheese: Shredded mozzarella or cheddar works wonders—melted cheese makes everything better!
- Spices: Include salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika for an extra kick—spice it up according to your taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven creates perfectly roasted peppers that are tender yet slightly crisp.
Prepare Your Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish; they’ll be snug like little vegetable sleeping bags.
Sauté Your Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine!
Add Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed; we want rich flavor without swimming in grease.
Mix It All Up!: Stir in tomato sauce along with spices into the meat mixture. Let it simmer briefly to meld flavors—don’t forget to taste-test!
Stuff Those Peppers!: Spoon generous amounts of filling into each pepper until they’re overflowing like little meat-filled treasure chests. Top with shredded cheese for that melty goodness.
Once you’ve followed these steps, pop those bad boys into the preheated oven! Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
You’ll find that making stuffed bell peppers ground beef isn’t just about feeding your belly; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table!
You Must Know
- Stuffed bell peppers with ground beef are not only delicious but also versatile
- Feel free to mix in your favorite grains or veggies for added flavor and texture
- These vibrant little packages are sure to impress at any gathering, making every bite a tasty adventure
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the filling while the peppers roast slightly. This ensures even cooking and enhances flavors, making every bite delightful.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping ground beef for turkey or adding black beans for a vegetarian twist. Spice up the filling with unique herbs or cheeses to create a dish that suits your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for best results, ensuring they stay delicious and cozy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh bell peppers for a crisp texture; overcooked ones can become mushy
- Experiment with different fillings like quinoa or rice for variety
- Always season your meat well to enhance flavor before stuffing
Sharing stuffed bell peppers with friends always brings smiles; their colorful presentation makes any meal feel festive and special.
FAQ
Can I make stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What other proteins can I use besides ground beef?
You can use chicken, turkey, sausage, or even plant-based options for variety.
How do I prevent my stuffed peppers from getting soggy?
Pre-roasting the peppers briefly helps eliminate excess moisture before stuffing them.
Delicious Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the comforting flavors of stuffed bell peppers filled with savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and melted cheese—a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- salt, pepper, cumin, paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Stand them upright in a baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned and drain any excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce and spices; let simmer briefly.
- Generously spoon filling into each pepper and top with cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pepper (300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
