How to Make Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Simple Guide
There’s something magical about biting into a juicy, flavorful stuffed bell pepper. It’s hearty, healthy, and downright satisfying. Whether you’re cooking dinner for your family, prepping meals for the week, or just trying to impress someone, stuffed bell peppers are always a winning choice. Plus, they’re super versatile — you can customize the filling to match your tastes. In this blog, I’ll show you how to make savory stuffed bell peppers step by step. Don’t worry, it’s simple enough for beginners!
What Are Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Stuffed bell peppers are hollowed-out peppers (most commonly sweet bell peppers) that are filled with a delicious stuffing. This stuffing usually consists of flavored rice, vegetables, meat, cheese, and seasonings. The filled peppers are baked, making them soft and tender on the outside while locking in all the savory goodness on the inside.
The best part? You only need basic ingredients, and you can adapt the recipe to suit your taste buds.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make stuffed bell peppers for 4 people:
Ingredients:
- Bell Peppers: 4 large bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange — whatever you prefer!).
- Cooked Rice: 1 cup (or you can use quinoa or cauliflower rice if you’re feeling adventurous).
- Ground Meat or Protein: ½ to ¾ pound (beef, chicken, turkey, pork, or even beans for a vegetarian version).
- Vegetables: 1 cup chopped vegetables like onions, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Cheese: ½ cup shredded cheese of your choice (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan work great).
- Tomato Sauce: 1 cup (or canned diced tomatoes if you prefer more texture).
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (or any spices you like).
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
Tools:
- A sharp knife
- A spoon for scooping
- A large skillet or frying pan
- A baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
First, wash your bell peppers thoroughly. Then, carefully cut off the tops (about ½ inch below the stem) to create a “lid.” Remove the seeds and the white ribbing inside the peppers using a spoon or your fingers. You should have hollow “pepper cups” ready to fill.
If your peppers don’t sit upright in the baking dish, you can slice a tiny piece off the bottom to make them stable — just be careful not to cut too deep and create holes.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- If you’re using ground meat, add it to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If you’re making a vegetarian version, skip the meat and move on to the vegetables.
- Add your chopped vegetables (like onions, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach) to the skillet. Sauté until softened.
- Add your cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and mix everything together so the filling is nice and moist.
- Season the filling generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Taste it—this is your chance to adjust the flavors!
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Now, spoon the filling into each pepper, packing it gently so it’s full but not overflowing. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If you want extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the filling.
Step 4: Bake the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil (this keeps the peppers from drying out) and bake for about 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle more cheese on top of the peppers if you like. Bake for another 10–15 minutes uncovered, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the oven (they’ll be hot!) and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them on a plate with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad or crusty bread. The bell peppers are bursting with flavor, and the melted cheese on top takes them to the next level!
Tips for Customizing Your Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Switch Up the Grain: Instead of rice, try using quinoa, farro, or even riced cauliflower for a low-carb option.
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meat entirely and add beans, lentils, or tofu to the filling.
- Add Extra Flavor: Experiment with herbs like basil, oregano, or cilantro—fresh herbs can brighten up the dish.
- Spice It Up: Add hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Why Stuffed Bell Peppers Are Great for Any Dinner
Stuffed bell peppers aren’t just delicious—they’re practical. You can make them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat them when you’re ready to eat. They’re also a great way to use up leftovers (think cooked rice, veggies, or meat sitting in your fridge). Plus, they look beautiful on the plate, making them perfect for serving guests.
This recipe is simple, comforting, and will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Give it a try, and you’ll see why stuffed bell peppers are a favorite in so many homes.
Happy cooking!
