Savory Beef & Rice Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers have long been regarded as a quintessential comfort food, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. This dish, which dates back centuries, showcases a vibrant bell pepper filled with a savory mixture of meat, rice, and seasonings. Hearty Beef & Rice Stuffed Peppers elevate this classic dish, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this recipe caters to diverse palates and dietary preferences, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Discover the comfort and joy of Hearty Beef & Rice Stuffed Peppers, a classic dish that perfectly blends flavors and nutrition. These colorful bell peppers are filled with a savory mix of ground beef or turkey, rice, and spices, making them a satisfying option for family dinners or gatherings. Customize the filling to suit your preferences, whether you're looking for a leaner option or a vegetarian twist. Follow simple steps to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, and watch as it brings everyone to the table. Enjoy the flexibility of stuffed peppers as you experiment with flavors and ingredients!

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Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (or plain diced tomatoes)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional: use pepper jack for a spicy kick)

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp olive oil

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish.

Cook the Beef Filling:

- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Combine the Filling:

- To the browned beef, add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, letting it simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Stuff the Peppers:

- Carefully spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down lightly to pack the filling. Fill them generously until they are well-stuffed.

Bake the Stuffed Peppers:

- Pour a small amount of water (about 1/4 cup) into the baking dish to help steam the peppers as they cook. This keeps them tender.

- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Add Cheese and Finish Baking:

- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender.

Serve:

- Once baked, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and serve with lime wedges for added zest. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4