Try these delicious Stuffed Peppers, a perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe features bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, diced tomatoes, and melted Monterey Jack cheese. Ideal for meal prep, these colorful stuffed peppers are nutritious, customizable, and family-friendly. Serve them as a comforting main dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Discover tips for variations, substitutions, and serving suggestions to make this classic recipe your own. Enjoy a wholesome meal that’s ready in under an hour!
Ingredients
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin, plus more for drizzling
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, finely chopped
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Ground Beef: 1 lb
- Rice: 1 1/2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5-oz.) can, drained
- Dried Oregano: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Kosher Salt: to taste
- Black Pepper: freshly ground, to taste
- Bell Peppers: 6, tops and cores removed
- Monterey Jack Cheese: 1 cup shredded
- Fresh Parsley: chopped, for serving
Directions
Step 1:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 6 minutes.
Step 2:
Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes, seasoning the mixture with oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the filling simmer, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced slightly, about 5 minutes.
Step 3:
Arrange the bell peppers cut side up in a 13″x9″ baking dish and drizzle with a little olive oil. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, filling them generously. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, then cover the baking dish with foil.
Step 4:
Bake the stuffed peppers in a preheated oven until they are tender, about 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5:
Remove from the oven and top with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Stuffed Peppers are a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for a family dinner. Filled with savory ground beef, rice, and topped with gooey Monterey Jack cheese, they deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is easy to customize with your favorite spices and ingredients, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers just before baking for an easy weeknight meal.
- Cooking Rice: Use leftover rice or microwaveable rice pouches for added convenience.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Variations and Substitutions
- Cheese: Feel free to swap out the Monterey Jack for cheddar, mozzarella, or a dairy-free cheese if needed.
- Meat Options: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or pork for different flavor profiles.
- Veggies: Add chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the filling for added nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
A: Yes! Assemble the stuffed peppers and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time to ensure they heat through.
Q: How do I know when the peppers are done?
A: The peppers should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed peppers with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick. Enjoy this hearty and delicious dish!
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