Flavorful Peppers Stuffed With Meat Recipe

When it comes to quick and dependable weeknight dinners, stuffed peppers are a true classic. With their sturdy structure and ample size, bell peppers can hold a generous amount of filling and adapt to all sorts of flavors—making them the ideal base for endless combinations. This meal is not only easy to prepare but also serves up enough to feed both big and small families, making it a budget-friendly weeknight favorite. While I enjoy experimenting with different variations, this simple, tried-and-true recipe remains hard to top! So, follow my tips and tricks for the perfect stuffed peppers, then use it as a foundation to get creative and craft your own personalized version.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile: Great for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
Nutritious: Packed with protein, veggies, and calcium for a balanced dish.
Customizable: Switch up the fillings, spices, or even the type of cheese to suit your tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of roasted peppers, flavorful meat, and melty cheese is universally loved.

Ingredients

3 Bell Peppers: mix of red, yellow, and green for a vibrant presentation
500g Ground Beef: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat work as substitutes.
1 Chopped Onion
2 Tomatoes (peeled, seeded, and chopped): Fresh or canned diced tomatoes work well.
4 Cloves of Crushed Garlic
Chopped Fresh Cilantro
1 Teaspoon Ground Oregano
1 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Salt and Pepper
Olive Oil

How to Make Peppers Stuffed With Meat?

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Start by washing the bell peppers thoroughly. Slice them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Brush each pepper half with olive oil on all sides to enhance roasting. Place them on a baking sheet lined with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Filling

Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a hot pan. Add the crushed garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it browns evenly.

Add the chopped tomatoes, ground oregano, salt, and pepper to the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the tomatoes break down and the flavors meld. Cook until most of the liquid has evaporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper half with two tablespoons of the meat mixture. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, then add more meat mixture on top. Press gently with a spoon to ensure there are no empty spaces. Repeat with all the peppers.

Peppers Stuffed With Meat for appetizers.

Step 4: Bake the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Place the stuffed peppers in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the peppers, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped cilantro, and return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the peppers to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with a fresh salad, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Zulay's Expert Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

Pick the right peppers. Choose bell peppers that are firm and evenly shaped to hold the filling well.
Pre-cook for softer peppers. If you prefer softer peppers, bake them for 10 minutes before stuffing.
Add extra veggies. Finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach can be added to the meat mixture.
Make it spicy. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Cheddar, Gouda, or even vegan cheese can be used for different flavor profiles.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe combines simple ingredients with big, bold flavors. The savory ground beef filling, seasoned with garlic, onions, and oregano, pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of roasted bell peppers. Topped with melted mozzarella and nutty Parmesan, it’s a symphony of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s adaptable to suit various dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Peppers Stuffed With Meat to be served for dinner.

Nutritional Benefits of Stuffed Peppers

Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
Ground Beef: A great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins.
Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene.

Stuffed Peppers Variations to Try

Italian-Style: Add Italian seasoning and replace mozzarella with provolone cheese.
Mexican-Inspired: Use taco seasoning in the meat mixture and top with cheddar and fresh salsa.
Vegetarian: Replace meat with a mix of black beans, quinoa, and corn.
Low-Carb: Skip the tomatoes and use cauliflower rice in the filling.

Zulay's Final Thoughts

This Flavorful Peppers Stuffed With Meat Recipe is a true culinary gem, combining wholesome ingredients with comforting flavors. Give them a try, and let the flavors inspire your next culinary adventure!

If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below with your thoughts or any creative variations you’ve tried. Share your stuffed pepper masterpieces on social media, and don’t forget to tag us @zulaykitchen with the hashtag #kitchenhappiness.

Three Peppers Stuffed With Meat served for lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the peppers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake them as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed peppers and freeze them in an airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

What side dishes pair well with stuffed peppers?

Stuffed peppers go well with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or even a bowl of soup. Other options include mashed potatoes or a hearty quinoa salad.