Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers are a heartwarming dish that brings the family together around the dinner table. Imagine vibrant bell peppers, lovingly filled with a savory mixture of fluffy quinoa, zesty black beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all seasoned to perfection with aromatic spices. Topped with gooey cheese that melts into a golden crust, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in food form, perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. Get ready to savor the love in every delicious bite!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers
Equipment
- 1 Medium Pot For cooking rice.
- 1 Skillet For sautéing vegetables.
- 1 baking dish For baking the stuffed peppers.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 large Bell Peppers Choose vibrant colors for presentation.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing vegetables.
Protein
- 1 pound Ground Turkey Lean alternative to beef.
- 1 cup Cooked Rice Provides a hearty base.
Flavorings
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce Keeps the filling moist.
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese For topping.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Adds warmth and aroma.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.
- 1 medium Onion Chopped, for sautéing.
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced, for flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather your ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash 4 large bell peppers. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds. Set them aside.
- In a medium pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add 1/2 cup of rice, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, 1 can of drained black beans, 1 cup of corn, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well mixed.
- Carefully spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it in gently. Place them upright in a baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Take the peppers out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers
- It’s a heartwarming dish that brings back fond memories of family dinners.
- Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious choice for everyone.
- Customizable to your taste—swap in your favorite veggies or grains!
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Leftovers taste even better, making lunch a breeze!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 50 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients for Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Bell Peppers – the star of the dish, choose vibrant colors for a beautiful presentation.
- Ground Turkey – a lean alternative to beef, adds protein without excess fat.
- Cooked Rice – provides a hearty base and helps bind the filling together.
- Onion – adds sweetness and depth of flavor; sauté for best results.
- Garlic – enhances the overall taste; fresh is best, but powdered works in a pinch.
- Tomato Sauce – keeps the filling moist and adds a rich, tangy flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese – melts beautifully on top, adding a creamy finish.
- Italian Seasoning – a blend of herbs that brings warmth and aroma to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper – essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
- Olive Oil – for sautéing vegetables and adding healthy fats.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers
Gather your ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get ready for a delicious adventure!
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Wash 4 large bell peppers. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds. Set them aside like little colorful cups waiting to be filled!
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a medium pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add 1/2 cup of rice, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy. This will be the heart of your stuffing!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Let the aroma fill your kitchen!
Step 4: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, 1 can of drained black beans, 1 cup of corn, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well mixed and happy!
Step 5: Stuff the Peppers
Carefully spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it in gently. Place them upright in a baking dish. They’re ready for their oven adventure!
Step 6: Bake the Peppers
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the tops get a little crispy. Yum!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Take the peppers out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and watch everyone smile as they dig in. Enjoy your Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers!
Pro Tips for Making the Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers
• Choose firm bell peppers for easy stuffing and a vibrant presentation.
• Pre-cook the rice slightly to ensure it’s fluffy and absorbs flavors well.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth instead of wine for extra moisture and taste.
• Experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
• Let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
How to Serve Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers
Enjoy Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers with these delightful serving suggestions:
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious juices.
- Offer a side of quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome touch.
- For a zesty kick, drizzle with hot sauce or a squeeze of lime.
- Make it a meal with roasted vegetables on the side.
- Try a side of creamy coleslaw for a crunchy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Cool the stuffed peppers completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
• Thaw frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave on medium power for 5-7 minutes, covered.
• Ensure they are heated through before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat for Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives to beef. They provide a lighter flavor while still being hearty and satisfying. Just make sure to season them well to enhance the taste!
What can I substitute for rice in the stuffing?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, quinoa or cauliflower rice works wonderfully. Both options add a nice texture and absorb the flavors of the dish beautifully.
How can I make Dad’s Stuffed Bell Peppers vegetarian?
Simply replace the meat with a mix of beans, lentils, or even mushrooms. Adding extra veggies like zucchini or corn can also enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish!
Can I prepare the stuffed peppers in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed peppers ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal!
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