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Stuffed Peppers Recipe: A Delicious Classic for All Occasions


  • Author: Annabel
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Description

Imagine colorful bell peppers brimming with a savory mixture of rice, minced meat, and vegetables, baked to perfection under a layer of golden, melted cheese. This Stuffed Peppers Recipe is a timeless classic, loved for its balance of hearty flavors and ease of preparation. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a potluck dish, or even meal prep for the week. Topped with sour cream and fresh dill, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.


Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 100 grams of rice
  • 250 ml water
  • 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
  • Vegetable oil for sautéing
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 500 grams minced meat (beef, pork, or a mixture)
  • 1 large carrot, grated
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Provencal herbs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Topping:

  • 100 grams of cheese, grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • A bunch of dill, finely chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Rice:

  • Combine the rice and 250 ml of water in a small pot.
  • Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice absorbs the water and becomes tender.
  • Set the rice aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Bell Peppers:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and inner membranes. Set aside.
  • If needed, trim the bottoms slightly to help the peppers stand upright in the baking dish.

Prepare the Filling:

  • Heat a drizzle of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the minced meat to the skillet. Cook for 7–10 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through.
  • Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, Provencal herbs, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors.
  • Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir until fully incorporated.

Stuff the Peppers:

  • Fill each bell pepper with the prepared meat and rice filling, pressing down gently to pack it in.
  • Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a greased baking dish.

Add the Topping:

  • Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
  • Cover the baking dish loosely with foil to prevent the peppers from drying out.

Bake the Peppers:

  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving.
  • Top each pepper with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Choose the Right Peppers: Use vibrant, firm bell peppers. Red, yellow, and orange varieties are sweeter and more flavorful than green peppers.
  • Adjust the Filling: Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra vegetables.
  • Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheeses like gouda, parmesan, or feta for a unique twist.
  • Stabilize the Peppers: Trim the bottoms slightly to ensure the peppers stand upright in the baking dish.
  • Advance Prep: You can assemble the stuffed peppers a day ahead and bake them fresh when needed.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: International