1. Introduction Stuffed Bell Peppers are not just a dish; they’re a colorful culinary journey. Imagine biting into a vibrant green bell pepper, its skin slightly charred, giving way to a savory, hearty filling. This dish, combining the earthy flavors of green peppers with the richness of ground beef, the comfort of rice, and the tangy sweetness of tomato sauce, is a testament to simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed bell peppers are sure to impress.
2. Ingredients
- 6 medium green peppers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 (6 7/8 ounce) box Rice-a-Roni mix, Spanish flavor
- 1 (16 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can tomatoes (for use in making the rice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
3. & 4. Directions & How to Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Start by preparing the bell peppers: remove the tops and seeds, then parboil them for 5 minutes. Drain and place them in a baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion together until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain the excess fat.
- Prepare the Rice-A-Roni as per the package instructions using the canned tomatoes.
- Mix the cooked beef and onion with the prepared rice, then spoon this mixture into the bell peppers.
- Combine the tomato sauce with a teaspoon of sugar and pour it around the stuffed peppers.
- Cover and bake for 35 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
5. Preparation Time
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour.
- Prepping peppers and ingredients: 15 minutes.
- Cooking and baking time: 45 minutes.
6. Servings This recipe serves 6, with one stuffed pepper per serving.
7. FAQs
- Can I use different colored bell peppers? Absolutely! Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers can also be used for a sweeter flavor.
- What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey or even a vegetarian substitute like quinoa works great.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the peppers a day in advance and bake them when ready to serve.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers? Yes, they freeze well. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
8. Conclusion Stuffed Bell Peppers are a true celebration of textures and tastes. They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience. With their vibrant color, they brighten up the dining table, and their hearty filling satisfies the soul. Perfect for both meat-lovers and those who appreciate a good, wholesome meal, this dish is a versatile, crowd-pleasing favorite. So, the next time you’re pondering what to cook, remember these delightful Stuffed Bell Peppers – they’re sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your table.