Costco’s stuffed peppers are a convenient and delicious meal option that combines fresh bell peppers with a savory ground beef and rice filling. If you’re wondering how to cook them, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
1. Are Costco Stuffed Peppers Precooked?
Costco stuffed peppers are partially cooked. The filling, which typically includes a flavorful mix of seasoned ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, is pre-cooked, but the peppers themselves are raw. This means they need to be heated thoroughly before serving to ensure both the peppers and the filling are warm and tender.
When preparing these peppers, they’re designed to be baked or cooked further to bring out their full flavor. Whether you’re using an oven or an air fryer, the cooking process is simple and doesn’t require much effort.
2. How To Cook Costco Stuffed Peppers in the Oven
Using an oven to cook Costco stuffed peppers is one of the most straightforward methods. Follow these simple steps:
Ingredients and Tools
- Costco stuffed peppers (as many as desired)
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the peppers soften properly.
Prepare the Peppers: Remove the stuffed peppers from their packaging. Place them in a baking dish with the open side facing up. The peppers should sit snugly in the dish to prevent them from tipping over.
Cover the Dish: Use aluminum foil to cover the baking dish. Covering the dish traps heat and moisture, which helps cook the peppers evenly and prevents them from drying out.
Bake the Peppers: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the peppers. They should be tender, and the filling should be hot.
Optional Browning: For a golden, slightly crispy topping, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Allow the cheese on top to bubble and brown.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with a side salad or bread for a complete meal.
3. How To Cook Costco Stuffed Peppers in an Air Fryer
If you prefer a quicker cooking method, the air fryer is an excellent option. This method produces perfectly cooked stuffed peppers with a slightly charred and crispy exterior.
Ingredients and Tools
- Costco stuffed peppers
- Air fryer
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.
Prepare the Peppers: Remove the stuffed peppers from their packaging. For easier cleanup, you can line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil, but ensure there’s enough space for air to circulate.
Place the Peppers in the Basket: Arrange the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket with the open side facing up. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Peppers: Cook the peppers for 15-20 minutes. Check on them halfway through the cooking process to ensure they’re cooking evenly. The peppers should be tender, and the filling should be heated thoroughly.
Optional Cheese Melting: If you want the cheese on top to brown more, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the peppers from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
4. Final Tips for Cooking Costco Stuffed Peppers
Always check the internal temperature of the filling to ensure it has reached at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
If you’re short on time, the air fryer method is faster and still delivers excellent results.
For added flavor, consider sprinkling extra cheese, herbs, or a drizzle of tomato sauce on top before cooking.
Costco stuffed peppers are a versatile and satisfying meal option that can be easily prepared in the oven or air fryer. With these step-by-step instructions, you can enjoy a hearty and delicious dinner with minimal effort.