Stuffed Bell Peppers Ground: Delicious 4-Ingredient Meal

Stuffed bell peppers ground has been a go-to comfort food in my house for years, especially when I need a delicious and satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. I remember my mom making these on chilly evenings; the aroma of the savory beef and tomato filling wafting through the kitchen was always a sign of a good meal. This ground beef and rice stuffed bell peppers recipe is my simplified version, perfect for busy weeknights but special enough for guests. The tender peppers, packed with a flavorful mixture and topped with melty cheese, are just pure joy. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe

This recipe is a weeknight winner for so many reasons:

• It’s incredibly satisfying and feels like a special occasion meal.
• The prep is straightforward, making it an easy ground beef stuffed bell peppers option.
• You get a full meal in one – protein, carbs, and veggies!
• The combination of tender peppers, savory filling, and melty cheese is pure comfort.
• It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and vegetables.
• This ground beef stuffed peppers recipe is easily customizable to your tastes.
• It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping lunches.

Ingredients for Stuffed Bell Peppers Ground

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making the best ground beef stuffed peppers recipe. I always try to pick peppers that have a nice, flat bottom so they stand up well in the baking dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 large bell peppers – any color works, but I love a mix of red, yellow, and orange for visual appeal.
• 1 pound ground beef – 80/20 lean is my go-to for the best flavor and juiciness in these stuffed bell peppers.
• 1 cup cooked rice – white or brown rice both work beautifully; this adds a lovely heartiness to the filling.
• 1 small onion, diced – about 1/2 cup, for a little aromatic sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better, right?
• 1 cup tomato sauce – this forms the base of our savory sauce, binding everything together.
• 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is always best.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – for a hint of smoky depth.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese – cheddar is classic, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or an Italian blend!

How to Make Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

Let’s dive into creating these delicious stuffed peppers! This process is quite straightforward, and by following these steps, you’ll have a fantastic meal on the table in no time. Get ready for some seriously tasty ground beef stuffed peppers for dinner.

Preheating and Pepper Prep

1. Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly.
2. Step 2: Prepare your bell peppers. Carefully cut off the tops, then scoop out all the seeds and the white membranes. You want a clean cavity for the filling. For even more tender peppers, you can give them a quick 2-minute zap in the microwave after cleaning them.

Cooking the Ground Beef Mixture

1. Step 3: Grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Add the 1 pound ground beef, the diced onion, and the minced garlic. Cook this mixture, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is nicely browned and the onions have softened, usually about 8 to 10 minutes.
2. Step 4: Drain off any excess fat from the skillet. I like to leave just about a teaspoon of fat behind for extra flavor and juiciness in our ground beef stuffed peppers.
3. Step 5: Now, stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Let this all simmer together for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The aroma at this stage is just incredible!

Assembling and Baking

1. Step 6: It’s time to stuff! Spoon the savory ground beef mixture evenly into each prepared bell pepper. An ice cream scoop really helps here for consistent portioning.
2. Step 7: Carefully place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. They should fit snugly.
3. Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of each pepper. Watch as it promises to melt into a gooey, delicious topping.
4. Step 9: Cover the baking dish with foil. This traps the steam and helps the peppers cook through and become tender. Bake for 35 minutes.
5. Step 10: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the peppers are fork-tender. This final uncovered bake gives you that perfect cheesy crust.
6. Step 11: Let your amazing stuffed bell peppers ground creation cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set a bit, making them easier to handle and enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Oven Baked

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these stuffed peppers absolutely perfect every time. These tips help ensure delicious results, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out with this classic dish. Following these simple suggestions will elevate your ground beef stuffed peppers oven baked experience.

• Choose peppers with sturdy bottoms that can stand on their own in the baking dish. This makes stuffing and serving much easier.
• Don’t be afraid to season your meat mixture generously! Bland filling is the enemy of great stuffed peppers.
• Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This is crucial for even cooking and preventing soggy peppers.
• Letting the peppers rest for a few minutes after baking allows the filling to set, making them easier to serve without falling apart.

What’s the secret to perfect stuffed bell peppers ground?

The secret to truly perfect stuffed bell peppers ground lies in balancing the moisture and flavor. Soaking the breadcrumbs in a little milk or broth before adding them to the meat mixture helps create a tender, flavorful filling that doesn’t dry out during baking. Also, don’t overcook the peppers initially!

Can I make ground beef stuffed peppers no rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the initial covered baking time since they’ll be starting from cold. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with ground beef stuffed peppers?

A common pitfall is using peppers that are too thin or wobbly; choose sturdy ones! Another mistake is not draining the fat from the beef, which can make the final dish greasy. Lastly, don’t overstuff the peppers; leave a little room for expansion as they bake.

Best Ways to Serve Stuffed Bell Peppers Ground

These hearty peppers are a meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with a few complementary sides to round out your dinner. For a truly classic American meal, try serving them alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. This adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich, savory filling. Another fantastic option is to serve them with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread for soaking up any extra delicious sauce. If you want to add more vegetables, a small portion of steamed green beans or broccoli also works beautifully with these ground beef stuffed peppers for dinner.

Nutrition Facts for Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

These classic stuffed bell peppers ground are a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (which is one stuffed pepper):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, particularly the leanness of the ground beef and the type of cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

One of the best things about making these easy ground beef stuffed bell peppers is that they’re fantastic for leftovers! Once your stuffed peppers have cooled down completely, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, making them perfect for meal prep. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating is simple. For refrigerated peppers, you can pop them back into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight first. Alternatively, you can reheat them directly from frozen in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or microwave them until hot, though the oven method usually yields the best texture for these ground beef stuffed peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Can I make ground beef stuffed peppers with quinoa instead of rice?

Absolutely! Quinoa is a fantastic substitute for rice in these ground beef stuffed peppers. It adds a wonderful nutty flavor and boosts the protein and fiber content. Just cook your quinoa according to package directions before mixing it into the ground beef filling. You’ll find it holds its shape well and makes for a hearty, healthy meal.

What kind of ground meat is best for stuffed bell peppers?

While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily use other types of ground meat. Ground turkey stuffed bell peppers or ground chicken are leaner options that work beautifully. For a richer flavor, you could even try ground lamb or a mix of beef and pork. Just be mindful of draining excess fat, especially with fattier meats, to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

How do I make stuffed bell peppers ground spicy?

To add a kick to your stuffed bell peppers ground, try incorporating some heat into the filling. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when you add the other spices. Diced jalapeños or a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce mixed into the tomato sauce will also amp up the spice level. For a smoky heat, consider using chipotle powder.

Can I make vegetarian stuffed bell peppers with this base?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for vegetarian stuffed bell peppers! Simply omit the ground beef and increase the amount of cooked rice or quinoa. You can also add more vegetables like diced mushrooms, zucchini, corn, or black beans to the filling for extra texture and heartiness. Ensure you season the vegetable filling well to compensate for the lack of meat flavor.

Variations of Stuffed Bell Peppers Ground You Can Try

These stuffed bell peppers ground are a fantastic base, but don’t be afraid to get creative! I love experimenting with different flavor profiles and dietary needs. For a lighter option, try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey stuffed bell peppers; it’s just as delicious and a bit healthier. If you’re looking for a low-carb meal, consider making ground beef stuffed peppers keto by omitting the rice and adding extra sautéed veggies like mushrooms or zucchini instead.

You can also change up the cooking method! Instead of baking, try grilling the peppers for a smoky flavor, or even making ground beef stuffed peppers skillet style by simmering everything together. For a touch of Italian flair, add some Italian sausage to the mix or top with mozzarella and a sprinkle of oregano. These ground beef stuffed peppers variations make it easy to enjoy this classic dish in countless ways.

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