Delicious Stuffed Green Pepper Recipe with Rice: A Savory Delight for Barbecue Enthusiasts
Written By James Morgan
If you are craving a recipe that is both simple and irresistibly tasty, look no further! This stuffed green pepper recipe with rice is perfect for family gatherings, weekday dinners, or even as an impressive dish for your next barbecue. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish features vibrant green peppers filled with a savory rice mixture. Let's dive into the steps to create this magnificent dish.
Why Try This Stuffed Green Pepper Recipe?
There are countless reasons to love this recipe. Firstly, it's incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer vegetarian dishes or a hearty meat-filled meal, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your tastes. Moreover, it's an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a fulfilling, flavorful meal. With rice as the base, you get a wholesome and satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats! Your barbecue guests will be begging for more.
Ingredients for the Stuffed Green Pepper Recipe with Rice
For this recipe, you will need:
- 6 large green bell peppers
- 1 cup white or brown rice, cooked (use a rice cooker for convenience)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (optional for a vegetarian dish)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preparing the Bell Peppers
Start by thoroughly washing the bell peppers. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes. Ensure that the peppers are clean and ready to be stuffed.
Step 2: Cooking the Rice
While you can cook rice on the stovetop, using a rice cooker simplifies the process. Follow the instructions on your rice cooker and cook 1 cup of white or brown rice. Rice cookers are a great investment for any kitchen as they provide perfectly cooked rice every time.
Step 3: Prepping the Filling
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. If you're using ground meat, add it to the skillet and cook until browned. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and proceed to the next step. Add the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it cook for a few minutes until all flavors marry beautifully.
Step 4: Stuffing the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). In the meantime, generously stuff each bell pepper with the rice filling. If you love cheese, sprinkle a bit of shredded cheddar inside each pepper before adding the filling. Once filled, stand the peppers upright in a baking dish.
Step 5: Baking
Top each stuffed pepper with a spoonful of tomato paste and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed green peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or grilled vegetables. For a meatier meal, consider serving them alongside grilled chicken or steak. This dish also complements a variety of sides such as garlic bread or a simple couscous salad. Check out our Mississippi Pot Roast Recipe for another hearty main course idea to pair with these delicious stuffed peppers.
Variations and Tips
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses or add your favorite herbs and spices. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding some crumbled feta cheese and chopped olives to the filling. If you like a bit of heat, throw in some finely chopped jalapeos or a dash of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless! Don't forget to properly clean your cookware using a cookware cleaner after cooking.
Enjoy your delicious stuffed green pepper recipe with rice! Check out more delightful dishes like our Rustic Bread Recipe and Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe. For more restaurant-style rice inspiration, have a look at this Fried Rice Recipe. And take proper care of your cutting board with this Cutting Board Oil.
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