Colorful Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers: A One-Dish Delight

Bring vibrant colors and comforting flavors to your dinner table with these Colorful Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers! Packed with a hearty filling of ground meat, rice, and spices, and topped with gooey melted cheese, these peppers are a versatile dish that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (choose a mix of red, yellow, and green for a colorful presentation)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground turkey, chicken, or beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prep the Peppers: Slice the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Brush the inside and outside lightly with olive oil.
3. Soften the Peppers: Arrange the peppers in a baking dish and bake for 10 minutes. This helps them cook faster once stuffed.

2. Cook the Filling

1. Cook the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground meat until browned and fully cooked.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
3. Mix in Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings (chili powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper). Simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

3. Stuff the Peppers

1. Fill the Peppers: Generously spoon the filling into each bell pepper, pressing it down gently.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each stuffed pepper.

4. Bake the Peppers

1. Bake Until Golden: Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Salad: Serve alongside a fresh Caesar or garden salad for a complete meal.
• Add a Side Dish: Complement with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
• Top It Off: Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

• Choose Fresh, Firm Peppers: This ensures they hold their shape while baking.
• Cook the Rice Ahead of Time: Using pre-cooked rice speeds up the preparation process.
• Get Creative: Customize the filling with beans, corn, or shredded zucchini for extra texture and nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers combine vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a variety of textures in one dish. They’re easy to customize, great for meal prepping, and a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through.
• Freeze: Individually wrap stuffed peppers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Flavor Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with black beans, chickpeas, or a mix of diced mushrooms and zucchini.
• Low-Carb Twist: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or omit it for a keto-friendly dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.

Make these Colorful Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers tonight and enjoy their vibrant presentation and comforting flavors. Share your creative variations and let us know how you’ve personalized this classic recipe!