Delicious and Easy Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe with Rice

By Avi Green October 04, 2023

Indulge in our hearty and nutritious stuffed bell pepper recipe with rice, an incredible dish that promises to satisfy your taste buds while offering a delightful culinary experience. Repurpose your everyday vegetables and pantry staples to create this versatile and customizable meal that every member of the family will love. Whether you are a cooking novice or a seasoned home chef, our step-by-step guide and tips will make your cooking journey seamless and rewarding.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

This stuffed bell pepper recipe with rice stands out due to its simplicity and robust flavors. Bell peppers are not only vibrant and visually appealing, but they are also packed with vitamins and minerals. Combining fresh bell peppers with flavorful rice, ground meat, and an array of spices creates a well-rounded meal that is delicious and nourishing. The addition of rice brings in the comfort food element, making this a go-to recipe for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

6 large bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange)
1 cup of uncooked rice (use a rice cooker for best results)
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp of Italian seasoning
Olive oil for sauting

Cooking Instructions

1. Preparing the Bell Peppers

Begin by washing the bell peppers thoroughly. Using a sharp knife (a quality knife set will make this task easier), slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. This cleaning process ensures a cavity that can be filled with the delicious rice and meat mixture. To keep the peppers upright during baking, you can slightly slice off a thin layer from the bottom, making a flat base.

2. Cooking the Rice

While preparing the bell peppers, you can cook the rice. For perfectly fluffy and evenly cooked rice, we recommend using a rice cooker. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to cook 1 cup of rice. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.

3. Preparing the Meat Mixture

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sauting them until they are translucent and aromatic. This forms the flavor base of your stuffing. Next, add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Brown the meat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Combining Rice with Meat Mixture

Once the meat mixture is ready, combine it with the cooked rice in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure that the rice is evenly distributed throughout the meat. This mixture is the heart of your stuffed bell peppers, providing both taste and texture.

5. Stuffing the Peppers

With your prepared bell peppers and stuffing mixture ready, it's time to fill them up. Using a spoon, generously fill each bell pepper cavity with the rice and meat mixture. Don't be shy to pack them tightly, as this will help them hold their shape and prevent them from toppling over in the oven.

6. Baking the Stuffed Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Arrange the stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish, ensuring they are upright and stable. For added moisture and flavor, you can add half a cup of water or broth to the bottom of the dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over each pepper. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Variations

This stuffed bell pepper recipe with rice is incredibly versatile. You can customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few tips and variations:

Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the ground meat with a mixture of beans, lentils, or tofu for a hearty vegetarian version.
Grain Variations: Instead of rice, you can use quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like feta, parmesan, or pepper jack for varying flavors.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the dish ahead of time, these stuffed bell peppers store wonderfully. Let the peppers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for convenience.

Conclusion

This delicious and easy stuffed bell pepper recipe with rice is a fantastic addition to any home cook's repertoire. The combination of tender bell peppers, savory meat, and flavorful rice creates a comforting and nutritious meal that is sure to impress. Whether youre preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.