Delicious Stuffed Peppers Recipe: A Hearty Meal for Fall and Winter
By Dr. Cindy Tanzar
Are you looking for a warm and comforting meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for cooler months? Look no further than this delicious Stuffed Peppers recipe! Packed with flavor, nutrients, and customizable ingredients, these stuffed peppers are not only satisfying but also great for meal prep, leftovers, or even freezing. Let’s dive into this classic dish that is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Peppers
- Versatile Ingredients: Choose from ground beef, turkey, chicken, or keep it vegetarian with cauliflower rice.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance or freeze for a quick meal later.
- Great Leftovers: Enjoy them even more on the second day—with flavors that just improve!
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, they’re a balanced meal option.
Servings: Makes 4 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil or avocado oil
- 1 pound ground beef (substitute with turkey, chicken, or omit for vegetarian)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 bell peppers (choose any color: red, green, orange, or yellow)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, finely chopped or riced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, chopped (optional; feel free to omit if not a fan)
- Pink Himalayan salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce, plus extra for topping
Easy Directions for Making Stuffed Peppers
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, trim a small slice from the bottom to help them stand upright in the baking dish.
3. Cook the Filling
In a large skillet, heat the coconut or avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
4. Add Flavorful Veggies
Stir in the chopped mushrooms, minced garlic, and finely chopped or riced zucchini. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Season with Pink Himalayan salt and black pepper to taste, then mix in one cup of marinara sauce.
5. Stuff the Peppers
Arrange the bell peppers cut side up in a medium-sized baking dish. Generously fill each pepper with the beef mixture, then top with additional marinara sauce for extra flavor.
6. Bake the Stuffed Peppers
Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are soft.
7. Add Cheese (Optional)
If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese on top of each pepper during the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these flavorful stuffed peppers warm and enjoy with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They make an excellent dinner option that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
This stuffed peppers recipe is not only a delicious and hearty meal, but it also allows for a great deal of customization based on your dietary preferences. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, and don’t forget to share your variations with family and friends!
Happy Cooking!