Cheesy Stuffed Green Peppers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• A perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and cheese
• Can be customized with different fillings and seasonings
• Great for meal prep and reheating
• A fun and tasty way to enjoy green peppers

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Green bell peppers
• Ground beef or turkey
• Cooked rice
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomato sauce
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the green peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Add ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
5. Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Fill each green pepper with the meat and rice mixture, pressing down slightly.
7. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.
8. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for black beans, lentils, or mushrooms.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Different Meats: Use ground chicken, sausage, or a mix of meats.
• Sauce Options: Try enchilada sauce or marinara for a flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap each pepper individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent the peppers from becoming too soft?

Avoid overbaking and remove them from the oven as soon as the cheese is melted.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for a different flavor.

Do I need to pre-cook the peppers?

No, baking them with the filling ensures they stay slightly firm.

Can I use uncooked rice?

It's best to use pre-cooked rice, as uncooked rice won't fully soften in the oven.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I prepare the peppers ahead of time?

Yes! Stuff them in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

They pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Can I cook them in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

How do I make them more filling?

Add extra protein like beans, quinoa, or an extra serving of meat.

Can I use red or yellow peppers instead?

Absolutely! Any color bell pepper works for this recipe.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Green Peppers are a simple yet flavorful meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer them with meat, vegetarian, or with a spicy twist, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Try them out for your next dinner and enjoy a delicious, cheesy, and hearty dish!