Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Introduction

Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers are a comforting and hearty meal, combining tender bell peppers filled with savory seasoned beef, rice, and a medley of delicious flavors. This dish is a classic that’s perfect for a family dinner or any time you’re craving a wholesome, satisfying meal. The stuffed peppers are baked until tender and golden, resulting in a flavorful and filling entrée that is both nutritious and delicious.

This recipe is customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to fit your taste. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a milder, more savory version, Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers are versatile enough to suit your preferences. Paired with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables, these stuffed peppers make for an outstanding meal.

Why You’ll Love Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers

• Delicious Combination of Flavors: The mixture of seasoned beef and fluffy rice, along with the natural sweetness of the bell peppers, creates a fantastic flavor profile. The combination of ingredients inside each pepper is balanced and satisfying.
• Wholesome and Nutritious: With lean ground beef, rice, and fresh vegetables, this dish provides a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. It’s a complete meal that is both filling and healthy.
• Easy to Make: Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers are simple to prepare. The recipe requires basic ingredients that are easy to find, and the assembly is quick. Once prepped, the peppers bake in the oven, allowing you to relax while the meal cooks.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: If you’re looking for a make-ahead dish, this recipe is ideal. Stuffed peppers can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for several days, making them perfect for meal prepping.
• Customizable: You can adjust the fillings based on your taste preferences. Add extra spices, vegetables, or even cheese for additional flavor, and feel free to use different grains or proteins to make it your own.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per stuffed pepper, depending on portion sizes and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 14-18g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 4-6g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown rice)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• Optional: Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Special Equipment

Although Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers don’t require specialized tools, there are a few kitchen items that will make the process easier and ensure the best results:

1. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the bell peppers evenly and removing the tops and seeds.
2. Large Skillet: You’ll need a large skillet to cook the beef, onions, and garlic. A cast-iron skillet works particularly well for even heat distribution.
3. Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is the perfect size for arranging the stuffed peppers. It will hold the peppers snugly and prevent them from tipping over while baking.
4. Rice Cooker or Pot: For cooking the rice, you can use a rice cooker or a standard pot. Make sure the rice is fully cooked before using it in the stuffing mixture.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements will ensure that your seasoning and ingredients are balanced for the perfect stuffed peppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers

Begin by cutting the tops off the bell peppers and removing the seeds and membranes. You can discard the tops or save them for later use, such as adding to a salad or chopping into smaller pieces for the filling. Trim a small amount from the bottom of each pepper if they don’t stand up straight.

Once cleaned, place the peppers in a baking dish. If you have any extra space in the dish, you can nestle the peppers close together to help them hold their shape while baking.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the beef and return it to the skillet.

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for another 5-7 minutes until everything is well combined, and the flavors have melded together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

3. Add the Rice

Stir in the cooked rice, mixing well to combine. The rice adds a great texture to the beef filling, making it more substantial. Continue to cook the mixture for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring that the rice is heated through and well coated with the spices and beef mixture.

If you like your stuffed peppers with more spice, feel free to add additional chili powder or a dash of hot sauce at this point.

4. Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing the filling tightly to ensure that each pepper is fully stuffed. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly across all the peppers.

Once filled, top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese of your choice that melts well.

5. Bake the Stuffed Peppers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the stuffed peppers for 30 minutes. This will allow the peppers to soften and cook through. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the peppers are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve the stuffed peppers on their own or with a side of rice or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Lean ground beef helps keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Pre-cook the Rice: Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the beef mixture. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa if you’re looking for a healthier alternative.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers. These additions add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
• Blanch the Peppers: If you prefer a softer pepper, you can blanch them before stuffing by placing them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften slightly. This step helps reduce the baking time.
• Add Extra Cheese: For a cheesier result, sprinkle extra cheese on top of the peppers during the last 5-10 minutes of baking for a gooey, golden layer.

Variations of Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers

• Mexican-Inspired Stuffed Peppers: Add taco seasoning to the beef and rice filling and top the peppers with a mixture of sour cream, salsa, and jalapeños for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers: For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for beans, lentils, or a combination of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and corn. Add some crumbled feta or mozzarella cheese for extra flavor.
• Italian-Style Stuffed Peppers: Use Italian seasoning, marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese for an Italian version. You can also add spinach or basil to the filling for an extra touch of flavor.
• Spicy Beef Stuffed Peppers: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for an extra spicy kick.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

If you’d like to freeze them, prepare the stuffed peppers but don’t bake them. Instead, cover them tightly and freeze. When ready to cook, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers

Pair your Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers with side dishes that complement the savory, hearty filling:

• Garden Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the stuffed peppers.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is always a great side dish for any baked dish. It’s perfect for sopping up any sauce left on your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes make for a nutritious and colorful side that pairs wonderfully with the peppers.
• Rice Pilaf: For extra rice, serve the stuffed peppers alongside a fluffy rice pilaf, seasoned with herbs and spices.
• Sautéed Greens: Sautéed spinach, kale, or Swiss chard adds a nutritious and slightly bitter contrast to the sweet and savory peppers.

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Conclusion

Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful, hearty, and versatile dish that works well for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a family gathering. The combination of seasoned beef, rice, and bell peppers creates a satisfying meal that’s easy to customize based on your preferences.

With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a deliciously savory result, Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or pairing them with a variety of sides, these stuffed peppers are sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy!