Stuffed Peppers Recipe- There’s something undeniably cozy about a tray of warm, colorful peppers stuffed with a delicious mix of rice, vegetables, and savory filling — bubbling with flavor and melted cheese. This Stuffed Peppers Recipe is a wholesome, satisfying meal that brings together vibrant bell peppers, hearty grains, juicy meat (or a vegetarian mix), and aromatic herbs in a single, beautiful dish.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Active Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean / American
Course: Main Course / Dinner
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 380 kcal per serving
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
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6 medium bell peppers (any color — red, yellow, or green)
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Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
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Salt and pepper – to taste
For the Filling:
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Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
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Onion – 1 small, finely chopped
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Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
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Ground beef or turkey – 1 pound (or substitute lentils for vegetarian)
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Cooked rice – 1½ cups (white, brown, or jasmine rice)
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Tomato sauce – 1 cup
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Diced tomatoes – 1 can (14 oz)
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Tomato paste – 1 tablespoon
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Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
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Dried basil – 1 teaspoon
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Paprika – ½ teaspoon
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Salt and pepper – to taste
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Shredded mozzarella or cheddar – 1 cup (plus extra for topping)
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Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
Equipment Needed
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Large skillet or sauté pan
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Mixing bowls
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Spoon or ladle
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Foil for covering
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 65 mg |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Sugar | 8 g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly drizzle the insides with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place them upright in a baking dish and set aside.
If you prefer softer peppers, you can pre-boil them for 3–4 minutes before stuffing.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, letting the flavors combine.
Add the cooked rice and ½ cup of shredded cheese. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and slightly creamy.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the filling mixture into each hollowed bell pepper, pressing lightly to fill completely. Top each with a little extra tomato sauce and a sprinkle of cheese.
Arrange the stuffed peppers snugly in your baking dish.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.
If you like golden, crispy cheese, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
Allow the stuffed peppers to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness.
Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
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With bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread or focaccia.
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As a complete meal: Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables.
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For extra flavor: Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top.
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Vegetarian twist: Replace meat with chickpeas, lentils, or quinoa for a protein-rich plant-based version.
Conclusion
The Stuffed Peppers Recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition — vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mix of rice, meat, and spices, baked until tender and deliciously cheesy. It’s a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is satisfying to eat.
