Stuffed Bell Peppers are a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender peppers, savory ground beef, and seasoned rice. It’s an easy one-pot meal that the whole family will love. Packed with protein and veggies, it’s perfect for dinner any night of the week. Here’s how to make them!
Ingredients
6 medium green peppers
1 lb ground beef
1 chopped onion
1 (6 7/8 ounce) box of Rice-a-Roni mix, Spanish flavor
1 (16 ounces) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste
Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the peppers: Cut off the tops of the green bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If necessary, trim the bottom of each pepper so it can stand upright. Set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Cook the Rice-a-Roni mix: In a medium saucepan, prepare the Spanish Rice-a-Roni mix according to the package directions (usually by sautéing the rice in some butter, adding water, and then letting it simmer until fully cooked).
Step 3: Cook the Beef Filling
Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Add the onion: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Season the filling: Stir in the cooked Rice-a-Roni, tomato sauce, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the mixture for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Stuff the peppers: Carefully spoon the beef and rice mixture into the prepared bell peppers, pressing the filling down to pack it in tightly.
Place the stuffed peppers: Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, standing them upright.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Peppers
Bake the peppers: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Optional Cheese Topping: If desired, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the stuffed peppers during the last 5 minutes of baking. Return the dish to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve them with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal!
Why This Recipe Works
Flavor-packed filling: The combination of seasoned rice, ground beef, and tomato sauce makes the filling flavorful and satisfying.
Versatility: You can customize this recipe by adding additional vegetables like diced tomatoes, corn, or black beans for extra flavor.
Easy and convenient: With simple ingredients and one-pan cooking, it’s an easy meal to prepare on busy nights.
Tips for Recipe Success
Don’t overcook the peppers: Bake them just until they’re tender, so they don’t become too soft or mushy.
Be generous with the filling: Make sure to pack the filling into the peppers to ensure each one is full of flavor.
Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Side salad: Pair the stuffed peppers with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a well-rounded meal.
Bread: Serve with a warm loaf of bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Steamed veggies: A side of steamed broccoli or carrots will add extra color and nutrition to the plate.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze the stuffed peppers before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed Bell Peppers are not only delicious but also a great way to get a full meal in one dish. The combination of seasoned beef, rice, and peppers offers a satisfying and comforting meal that’s easy to make. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day!