Simple Stuffed Green Bell Peppers

Simple Stuffed Green Bell Peppers Recipe -Healthy Dinner

Be the Bell of your kitchen. This simple and healthy meal will have your family dancing for more. Familiar ingredients combined to make and incomparable tasty filling. All that flavor stuffed in a delicious bell pepper. 

This recipe is nutritious, packed with protein, and perfect for a weeknight meal. Serve it with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete, satisfying dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✅ Wholesome & Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and veggies!
✅ Easily Customizable – Swap out the protein or add your favorite flavors.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep ahead for a fuss-free meal.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Store and reheat for a quick, healthy lunch.
✅ Low-Carb & Gluten-Free Options – Adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs.

Ingredients for Simple Stuffed Green Bell Peppers

• 6 bell peppers

• 4 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• 8 ounces lean ground beef

• Salt and ground black pepper

• 1 onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, chopped

• 4 Roma tomatoes, seeded and finely diced

• 1 cup cooked long-grain and wild rice

• 1 cup cooked black beans, drained

• 1 1/2 cups grated pepper Jack cheese

• 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro

How to Prepare Stuffed Green Bell Peppers

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove the seeds, and place them cut-side up in a baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

In a skillet, cook the lean ground beef, season with salt and pepper, then set it aside. In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and diced bell pepper. Add the tomatoes, black beans, and rice, then stir in the cooked beef and cheese.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers and Bake

Stuff the peppers with the mixture, top with remaining cheese, drizzle with olive oil, and bake covered for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once the peppers are soft and cheese is melted, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Tips for Making Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Add Spice: For a spicier kick, mix in red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper to the filling.
• Go Vegetarian: Replace the meat with quinoa, lentils, or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Cheese Lovers: Try mixing different cheeses like cheddar, feta, or Parmesan for extra richness.
• Different Cooking Methods:

1. Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F and cook for 15-20 minutes.
2. Stovetop: Simmer in a covered pan with a little water or broth for 25 minutes.

Pair With: Serve alongside garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Customize Your Filling

Feel free to swap the beef for turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian filling with quinoa and beans for a plant-based version.

For another delicious stuffed vegetable recipe, try our Squash Stuffed with Quinoa.

FAQs About Stuffed Bell Peppers

Can I make stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the stuffed peppers up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking. When ready to cook, bake as instructed, adding 5-10 extra minutes if needed.

Can I substitute the ground beef in this recipe?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for:

• Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Plant-based protein like lentils, tofu, or quinoa for a vegetarian version.
• Shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick protein substitute.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

How do I reheat stuffed peppers?

• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Yes! Stuffed peppers freeze well. Here’s how:

1. Cool completely before freezing.
2. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container.
3. Freeze for up to 3 months.
4. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes from frozen, or thaw overnight before reheating.