Stuffed bell peppers are a culinary classic that never goes out of style. This versatile dish combines vibrant bell peppers with a flavorful filling, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re a olded chef or a novice in the kitchen, this stuffed bell peppers recipe is a must-try for a delightful and satisfying meal.
1. Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Bell Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds, and trim the bottoms to create a stable base.
Blanch the bell peppers in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, then plunge them into ice water. This helps soften the peppers and enhances their color.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain excess fat. Then add diced onions and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until softened.
Next, incorporate black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and cooked rice into the skillet. Then season the mixture with ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Allow the filling to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Place the blanched bell peppers in a baking dish. Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it tightly. Next, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper, creating a cheesy crust.
In a bowl, mix together tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Then pour the sauce over the stuffed bell peppers in the baking dish.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
Uncover the dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender.
Carefully remove the stuffed bell peppers from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and added flavor.
Tips For Customization
Vegetarian Version
Opt for a meatless version by substituting the ground meat with plant-based alternatives or additional veggies like mushrooms and zucchini.
Cheese Variations
Experiment with different cheese blends or add a layer of creamy goat cheese for a unique twist.
Spice it Up
Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder or adding a dash of hot sauce.
Grilled Sensation
Take the stuffed bell peppers to the grill for a smoky flavor. Simply wrap them in aluminum foil and grill until the peppers are tender.
This recipe offers a symphony of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or entertaining guests. With a burst of colors and a medley of savory ingredients, these stuffed bell peppers are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
