Stuffed Peppers Recipe – Easy Healthy Dinner Idea
Stuffed peppers are a classic comfort food made healthy! Fresh bell peppers filled with seasoned rice, ground meat, vegetables, and melted cheese create a colorful, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weeknight meals.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Foil
- Oven
Ingredients
- 6 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep Peppers: Slice tops off peppers, remove seeds and membranes. Parboil for 3–4 minutes or roast briefly to soften.
- Cook Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in rice, tomato sauce, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff Peppers: Spoon filling into peppers, packing gently. Place in a baking dish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over each pepper.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Mediterranean twist: add couscous, feta, and olives.
- Tex-Mex version: use taco seasoning, black beans, and corn.
- Vegetarian option: quinoa, mushrooms, and spinach.
- Gluten-free: substitute rice or cauliflower rice.
- Mini peppers make perfect appetizers.