What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These stuffed peppers are a hit for good reason—they’re easy, delicious, and packed with flavor.
- Customizable filling—swap ingredients to match your taste or what’s in your fridge.
- One-pan wonder—less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Crowd-pleaser—perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.
Recipe
Stuffed peppers are a classic, hearty dish that combines tender bell peppers with a flavorful filling of meat, rice, and seasonings. This recipe is simple yet delicious, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in cooked rice, half the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the filling into the peppers and place them in a baking dish.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the peppers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese (if using), and bake for another 10 minutes.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or quinoa.
- Adjust spices to taste.
Equipment:
- Baking dish
- Skillet
- Knife and cutting board
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4
Nutrition
Stuffed peppers are a healthy and flavorful dish packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
Calories: 250
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 420mg
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my stuffed peppers with simple sides, like garlic bread or a crisp green salad, to balance the rich flavors. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of red wine, like a Merlot, can really bring out the dish’s warmth. Let me share my favorite combos that’ll make your meal feel extra special.
Side Dishes Suggestions
When it comes to pairing side dishes with stuffed peppers, I always aim for a balance that complements their hearty, savory flavor. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while garlic bread adds a warm, crunchy contrast. Roasted vegetables, like zucchini or asparagus, bring a touch of sweetness and color to the plate. For something heartier, I’ll serve rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. If I’m feeling fancy, a side of creamy mashed potatoes feels comforting and indulgent. These sides keep the meal varied and satisfying, without overpowering the star of the dish.
Wine Pairing Ideas
Why not elevate your stuffed peppers with a glass of wine that complements their flavors perfectly? I love pairing them with a light, fruity red like Pinot Noir—it balances the richness without overpowering the dish. If you prefer white, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc adds an invigorating contrast, especially if your peppers have a zesty filling. For something bolder, a Spanish Rioja works wonders with smoky or spiced variations. And don’t forget rosé—its versatility makes it a fun choice for summer evenings. Trust me, the right wine can turn your meal into a celebration all by itself! Cheers!
