Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Stuffed peppers recipe is a delightful way to bring warmth and flavor to your dinner table! Imagine vibrant bell peppers bursting with a savory mixture of quinoa, black beans, and fresh veggies, all seasoned with zesty spices. Topped with gooey cheese and baked to perfection, these hearty gems are not just a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive in and enjoy every delicious bite!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Skillet For cooking the filling.
- 1 baking dish For baking the stuffed peppers.
- 1 Foil To cover the baking dish while baking.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 pieces Bell Peppers Any color you like.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing.
Filling
- 1 cup Quinoa Cooked.
- 1 cup Black Beans Drained and rinsed.
- 1 cup Corn Sweet kernels.
- 1 cup Diced Tomatoes Canned or fresh.
- 1 pound Ground Turkey or Chicken For protein.
- 1 medium Onion Chopped.
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
- 1 teaspoon Cumin For seasoning.
- 1 cup Cheese Shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional).
Spices
- to taste Salt and Pepper For seasoning.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your peppers cook evenly and come out perfectly tender.
Prepare the Peppers
- Wash 4 bell peppers (any color you like!). Cut the tops off and remove the seeds. Set them aside, looking pretty!
Cook the Filling
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Add Protein
- Stir in 1 pound of ground turkey or chicken. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of cumin.
Mix in Grains and Veggies
- Add 1 cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice and 1 cup of diced tomatoes (canned or fresh). Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Stuff the Peppers
- Carefully spoon the filling into each pepper. Pack it in, but don’t overstuff! Place them upright in a baking dish.
Add Cheese (Optional)
- If you love cheese, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top of each stuffed pepper.
Bake
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your healthy delight!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Deliciously customizable with your favorite fillings.
- Packed with nutrients and low in calories.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved!
- Quick and easy to make, even on busy nights.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free, Vegetarian |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients for Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Bell Peppers – a colorful base that adds crunch and sweetness.
- Quinoa – a protein-packed grain that makes the filling hearty.
- Black Beans – a great source of fiber and adds a creamy texture.
- Corn – sweet kernels that enhance flavor and color.
- Onion – for a savory depth and aromatic flavor.
- Garlic – adds a punch of flavor and health benefits.
- Tomato Sauce – keeps the filling moist and adds tanginess.
- Cheese – for a melty, delicious topping (use a dairy-free option if desired).
- Spices – such as cumin and paprika for a flavor boost.
- Olive Oil – for sautéing and adding healthy fats.
How to Make the Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Get ready to create a delicious stuffed peppers masterpiece!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your peppers cook evenly and come out perfectly tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Wash 4 bell peppers (any color you like!). Cut the tops off and remove the seeds. Set them aside, looking pretty!
Step 3: Cook the Filling
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Step 4: Add Protein
Stir in 1 pound of ground turkey or chicken. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of cumin.
Step 5: Mix in Grains and Veggies
Add 1 cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice and 1 cup of diced tomatoes (canned or fresh). Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Stuff the Peppers
Carefully spoon the filling into each pepper. Pack it in, but don’t overstuff! Place them upright in a baking dish.
Step 7: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you love cheese, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top of each stuffed pepper.
Step 8: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your healthy delight!
Pro Tips for Making the Stuffed Peppers Recipe
• Choose vibrant bell peppers for a colorful presentation and added nutrients.
• Pre-cook your grains or quinoa for a quicker cooking time and better texture.
• Experiment with different fillings like beans, lentils, or veggies for variety.
• Top with a sprinkle of cheese or nutritional yeast for a delicious finish.
• Let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
How to Serve Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Enjoy your stuffed peppers with these delightful serving suggestions:
- Top with fresh avocado slices for a creamy twist.
- Serve alongside a zesty quinoa salad for added texture.
- Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative for creaminess.
- Accompany with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of flavor.
- Offer a side of whole grain bread to soak up any delicious juices.
- For a refreshing touch, serve with a citrusy cucumber salad.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your stuffed peppers fresh:
- Allow them to cool completely.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For long-term storage:
- Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your stuffed peppers again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave on medium power for 5-7 minutes, covered.
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FAQs
Can I use different types of peppers for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bell peppers are the most common choice, you can experiment with other varieties like poblano, Anaheim, or even mini sweet peppers. Each type will bring its unique flavor and texture to the dish, so feel free to get creative!
What can I use as a substitute for meat in the stuffing?
If you’re looking for a meat alternative, consider using quinoa, lentils, or black beans. These options are not only healthy but also add a hearty texture and protein to your stuffed peppers, making them satisfying and delicious.
How can I make my stuffed peppers more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, try adding spices like cumin, paprika, or Italian seasoning to your stuffing mix. You can also incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
Can I prepare stuffed peppers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed peppers ahead of time! Assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for a quick and easy meal when you’re short on time. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!