Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic You’ll Love
Stuffed bell peppers are a timeless comfort food that combines tender peppers, savory beef, flavorful rice, and a cheesy topping. This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with a hearty, wholesome meal. With a rich tomato sauce and customizable ingredients, it’s no wonder why this recipe has stood the test of time. Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible dish step-by-step.
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Ingredients for Stuffed Bell Peppers
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this recipe flavorful and satisfying:
6 medium green bell peppers: The perfect edible vessel, their mild flavor complements the savory filling.
1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty and protein-packed base for the stuffing.
1 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
1 box (6 7/8 ounces) of Rice-A-Roni Spanish Flavor: A quick way to bring bold, zesty flavors to the dish.
1 (16-ounce) can tomato sauce: Used to moisten and flavor the peppers and as a sauce for serving.
1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce, enhancing its sweetness.
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes: Adds texture and enhances the Spanish rice’s flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or American cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey, irresistible finish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
Parboil the peppers in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften them slightly. Drain and set aside in a baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion together until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions, using the diced tomatoes in place of water. Once the rice is cooked, mix it with the beef and onion mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Peppers
Generously stuff each bell pepper with the rice and beef mixture.
Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce
Mix the sugar with the tomato sauce and pour it around the peppers in the baking dish, not over the top. This method ensures the peppers don’t become soggy.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheese on top of the peppers, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Simplicity: Uses pantry staples and pre-packaged rice for convenience.
Customizable: Swap the beef for turkey or use a different cheese to suit your taste.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, flavorful filling.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers
Choose uniform peppers: They’ll cook evenly and look great on the plate.
Parboil with care: Don’t overcook, as the peppers will soften further in the oven.
Don’t overstuff: Leave a small gap at the top for easy cheese topping.
Boost the flavor: Add garlic, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes to the filling.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair your stuffed bell peppers with:
Garlic bread or crusty rolls for soaking up the tomato sauce.
A fresh side salad with tangy vinaigrette.
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for a complete meal.
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Conclusion
Stuffed bell peppers are a delightful mix of savory, cheesy, and hearty flavors, making them a standout comfort food. With straightforward steps and versatile ingredients, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Try it tonight and discover why it’s a family favorite!
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