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