These Easy Cheesy Stuffed Peppers are colorful and delicious! Filled with cheese, rice, and yummy spices, they are a fun way to enjoy your veggies.
When I make these, I can’t resist sneaking a few bites before dinner. The melted cheese on top is too tempting! Plus, they are super easy to whip up on a busy night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bell Peppers: I love using colorful peppers—yellow, red, or orange. They add a nice sweetness. Green peppers work too but have a different flavor. If you’re allergic or dislike peppers, you could use zucchini or eggplants as an alternative!
Rice: I usually stick with white rice for its simplicity, but brown rice adds more texture and fiber. You can swap it out for quinoa or couscous if you want something different.
Ground Meat: While I often use ground beef, turkey is a healthier option. For a vegetarian take, try lentils, black beans, or chickpeas. They provide great protein without meat!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice twist. Vegan cheese also works if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Peppers?
Preparing the peppers is a crucial step! Make sure to cut off the tops and remove the seeds so you can fill them easily. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Gently slice off the top of the pepper, about an inch from the top.
- Use a spoon or knife to scoop out the seeds and white parts inside; this leaves room for the filling.
- If the bottom isn’t flat, you may slice a tiny bit off the base to help them stand during cooking.
These steps ensure your peppers will hold their filling nicely and cook evenly!
Easy Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey (optional for extra protein)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and around 35 minutes of cooking time, giving you a total of about 50 minutes. You’ll have delicious stuffed peppers ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your peppers will bake properly and get that lovely cheesy topping.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are softened and fragrant—around 3-4 minutes. This will bring out a nice flavor!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked ground meat (if using), diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and warmed through.
4. Add the Cheese:
Take the skillet off the heat and mix in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is creamy and delicious!
5. Fill the Peppers:
Using a spoon, carefully fill each hollow bell pepper with the cheesy filling. Pack it in nicely but don’t overstuff—it should rise above the pepper a little!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed pepper for that cheesy goodness.
7. Bake the Peppers:
Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the peppers moist during baking, and put it in the oven for 25 minutes.
8. Crisp the Cheese:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This lets the cheese on top get bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Easy Cheesy Stuffed Peppers!
FAQ: Easy Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a classic choice, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even skip the meat for a vegetarian version. For a plant-based alternative, try adding lentils or black beans instead!
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Filling?
If you have extra filling, it’s great to use in other dishes! You can mix it into scrambled eggs, use it in tacos, or layer it in a casserole. Just make sure to refrigerate any leftovers and consume them within 3 days.
How Can I Modify This Recipe for Dietary Restrictions?
If you’re looking for gluten-free options, simply ensure the rice and cheese are gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese, and you can also substitute quinoa for rice. Many adjustments can be made while still keeping it delicious!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a quick option, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
