Amazing STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

Stuffed bell peppers bring the perfect blend of comfort and nostalgia, wrapped up in vibrant, wholesome goodness. This recipe has been a beloved staple in my family since childhood, adapted over the years to suit evolving tastes. There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a juicy bell pepper stuffed with a hearty mix of ground beef, rice, and aromatic herbs, all baked to perfection in the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed bell pepper recipe is a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor. With minimal fuss, it offers a meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re a fan of meal prep or just looking for a comforting dinner to enjoy, these peppers will hit the spot.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Pot
• Baking Dish
• Large Spoon for Mixing
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

• 6 Medium-Large Bell Peppers
• 1 lb. 93% lean (or better) Ground Beef
• 1 can (14.5oz) diced tomatoes (no salt added)
• 1 can (8oz) tomato sauce (no salt added)
• 2.5 cups cooked Uncle Ben’s Long Grain & Wild Rice
• 1 packet Sazon seasoning (found with Goya products)
• 2 tsp. Adobo seasoning (found with Goya products)
• 1 cup Reduced fat Four Cheese blend (or your preferred cheese)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove any seeds. Rinse them well and set aside.
3. Bring a large pot of water to boil. Boil the peppers for 10 minutes in two batches, then drain and place them in a baking dish.
4. In a pan, brown the ground beef.
5. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, omitting butter or oil. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings to the browned beef, reducing the heat to simmer.
6. Mix the cooked rice into the beef mixture by the spoonful until a nice consistency is achieved, approximately 2.5 cups.
7. Stir in about 1/2 cup of cheese into the beef mixture, reserving the rest for topping.
8. Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
9. Bake in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the peppers are soft before stuffing for easier baking.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste; a little extra cheese never hurts!

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try using different types of bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
• For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 311.3, Total Fat: 9.0 g, Cholesterol: 57.0 mg, Sodium: 515.5 mg, Total Carbs: 31.5 g, Dietary Fiber: 4.1 g, Protein: 25.5 g

8 SmartPoints

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

What can I serve with stuffed bell peppers?

These peppers pair well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

I hope you find this stuffed bell peppers recipe as comforting and delicious as my family does. It’s a dish that’s easy to personalize and perfect for sharing. Give it a try and let me know your thoughts in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear how you enjoyed your meal!