Welcome to the world of comfort food with this old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe. It’s a mix of hearty flavors and simple ingredients. It’s a family favorite that brings back memories of grandma’s cooking.
You’ll find a mix of rice, ground beef, and spices in these vibrant bell peppers. It’s great for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It serves six people and is ready in about an hour and thirty minutes.
Table of contents
- Introduction to Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Ingredients for Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Preparation Steps for Stuffed Peppers
- Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Cooking Instructions
- What Kind of Bell Peppers to Use
- Should Peppers Be Precooked Before Stuffing?
- How to Avoid Watery Stuffed Peppers
- Alternative Versions of Stuffed Peppers
- Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Peppers
- Nutritional Information
- Tips for the Best Stuffed Bell Peppers
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Introduction to Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers
Old fashioned stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that brings comfort and versatility. This dish is loved for family dinners because it can please many tastes. You can fill bell peppers with many ingredients, making it customizable for everyone.
The history of stuffed peppers is rich and varied, celebrated for their beauty and taste. This recipe with rice is not just satisfying but also a great way to use leftovers.
Making this dish is easy, taking about 10 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to cook. It makes six servings, ideal for weeknights or parties. Feel free to add olives, cheese, or spices to make it your own. This ensures it stays a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
To make a tasty old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe with ground beef, you’ll need some ingredients. You’ll find the right mix of must-haves and optional extras. These help make the dish even better.
Essential Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color or a mix)
- 1 lb of ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup of cooked rice (any kind)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 tbsp of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Dan-O’s Italian-O™ Seasoning (2 tbsp)
- Dan-O’s Cheesoning® Seasoning
- Italian sausage for added richness
- Worcestershire sauce for depth
- Marinara sauce or tomato soup for a sauce base
These ingredients for stuffed peppers let you get creative. You can mix and match flavors to your liking. This makes the meal perfect for any time.
Preparation Steps for Stuffed Peppers
In this section, you’ll learn how to prepare stuffed bell peppers. This includes getting the bell peppers ready and mixing the filling. This way, you’ll get a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Prepping the Bell Peppers
First, pick six medium bell peppers in colors like red, yellow, green, or orange. Cut off the tops and remove the seeds. This makes room for the filling.
Use a paring knife to avoid damaging the pepper walls. It’s important to get around the stem carefully.
Mixing the Stuffing
Start by cooking one pound of ground beef, turkey, or chicken in a skillet. Add one diced onion and two cloves of minced garlic as it browns. This will make the filling fragrant.
Then, mix in one cup of cooked rice, one cup of canned diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Use one teaspoon each of ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Don’t forget to add salt and black pepper to taste.
You can also add half a cup of black beans or frozen corn kernels for extra flavor. Once everything is well mixed, it’s ready to fill the bell peppers.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef, turkey, or chicken | 1 lb |
| Cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa) | 1 cup |
| Medium bell peppers | 6 |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp (adjust to taste) |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Canned diced tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Frozen corn kernels | ½ cup |
| Black beans | ½ cup |
| Shredded cheese | 1 cup (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella) |
Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Making grandma’s old fashioned stuffed bell peppers is fun. First, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). You’ll need 4 to 6 large bell peppers, in any color. Cut off the tops and remove the seeds.
To keep peppers from getting soggy, pre-bake them for 10-15 minutes.
Now, make the filling. Start by cooking diced onions in a skillet for 5 minutes. Then, add 1 to 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Add minced garlic, a cup of cooked rice, and some seasonings like Italian seasoning and Worcestershire sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to mix the flavors well.
Fill the peppers with the meat mixture. Put them in a baking dish, standing up. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This step melts the cheese on top and makes the peppers tender.
This recipe feeds 4-6 people and takes about 2 hours to make. For a real grandma’s touch, mix ground beef with Italian sausage and add a lot of tomato sauce. You can make these peppers up to 2 days before baking, which is great for busy weeknights.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large Bell Peppers | 4-6 |
| Lean Ground Beef | 1-1.5 pounds |
| Cooked Rice | 1 cup |
| Diced Onions | 1 onion |
| Tomato Sauce | To taste |
| Parmesan Cheese | As needed |
| Italian Seasoning | To taste |
Cooking Instructions
To make the old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe with tomato soup, it’s key to follow the right steps. Start by heating your oven to 350°F. This temperature helps the flavors blend and makes the peppers tender.
Oven Temperature and Cooking Time
After filling your bell peppers with the stuffing, cover them with aluminum foil. This keeps the moisture in. Bake for about 35-40 minutes. This step is important for softening the peppers and mixing the flavors.
Before taking off the foil, check if the peppers are tender. Then, bake for another 10-15 minutes without the foil. This makes the cheese bubbly and brown, adding to the dish’s taste and look.
Remember, cooking times can change based on bell pepper size. Make sure they’re tender before serving. This makes your meal more enjoyable.
By following these steps, you’ll get a delicious dish full of flavor and health benefits.
What Kind of Bell Peppers to Use
Choosing the right bell pepper for stuffing is more than just picking a color. Green, red, yellow, or orange peppers can all add something special to your dish. Each color brings its own unique flavors, which can make a big difference.
Green bell peppers have a slightly bitter taste, which contrasts with sweeter peppers. On the other hand, red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter and have deeper flavors. This can change how your stuffed peppers taste.
It’s best to pick peppers that are about the same size. This ensures they cook evenly and look great together. The pepper you choose affects both the taste and how your dish looks, so it’s an important choice.
| Bell Pepper Color | Flavor Profile | Cooking Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Green | Slightly bitter | Holds shape well |
| Red | Sweet and rich | Softens gently |
| Yellow | Sweet and mild | Becomes tender |
| Orange | Sweet and vibrant | Softens evenly |
In summary, picking the right pepper is key when stuffing them. Try using different colors for a dish that tastes great and looks amazing.
Should Peppers Be Precooked Before Stuffing?
When making stuffed bell peppers, you might wonder if you should cook the peppers first. Cooking them beforehand isn’t necessary, as they will soften while baking. Filling the peppers raw helps them keep their shape and makes them easier to handle.
Some people prefer their peppers a bit softer. If that’s you, try parboiling them for about 5 minutes. This way, they’ll be softer but won’t lose their flavor or shape.
Whether to cook peppers or not is up to you. If you prefer them tender, a quick boil is the way to go. This method keeps them soft but flavorful. On the other hand, raw peppers offer a bit of crunch and keep their bright color.
Choosing to cook peppers is a personal choice. Trying both ways can lead to new favorites. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Method | Texture | Shape | Ease of Handling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw Peppers | Crisp | Retains Shape | Easy |
| Parboiled Peppers | Tender | Softened | Moderate |
Now you know the basics. You can choose how to cook your peppers for stuffed bell peppers. Enjoy trying different ways to make this classic dish your own!
How to Avoid Watery Stuffed Peppers
To make delicious stuffed peppers, follow these tips. First, make sure your filling isn’t too wet before putting it in the peppers. Draining canned tomatoes well can also help reduce moisture.
Adding breadcrumbs to your filling is another smart move. They add texture and soak up extra liquid. Mix your ingredients carefully to avoid a too-wet filling.
Try baking the peppers without a cover for a few minutes. This helps get rid of any remaining moisture. These steps will help you achieve stuffed peppers that are just right, not soggy or watery.
Alternative Versions of Stuffed Peppers
Exploring different stuffed peppers recipes can be a fun journey. You can choose from healthier meats or go for vegetarian options. This lets you make the dish your own, matching it to your taste and diet.
Using Ground Turkey or Chicken
Ground turkey or chicken is a great choice for a leaner stuffed peppers recipe. These meats are low in fat but full of flavor. They pair well with spices and veggies.
Choosing these meats can make your meal healthier without losing taste. Here’s why:
- They have fewer calories than ground beef.
- They’re packed with about 20 grams of protein per serving.
- Seasonings make them even more delicious.
If you’re a vegetarian, you can use lentils, quinoa, or plant-based ground meat. These options are not only healthy but also full of vitamins and minerals.
Stuffed peppers are very flexible. They let you express your unique taste with different ingredients and flavors.
| Ingredient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Ground Turkey | Low fat, high protein |
| Ground Chicken | Lean meat option |
| Lentils | Rich in fiber and protein |
| Quinoa | Complete protein, gluten-free |
| Plant-Based Meat | Vegan option, varied textures |
Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are not just tasty; they’re also versatile. You can pair them with various side dishes to make your meal even better.
Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal
Here are some great side dishes to go with stuffed peppers:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors of the stuffed peppers.
- Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery addition can provide a delightful crunch, perfect for scooping up any filling that spills out.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans offer a light, nutritious side that complements the richness of the stuffing.
How to Store Leftover Stuffed Peppers
After enjoying your delicious meal, you may have leftover stuffed peppers. It’s important to store them right to keep their flavor and texture.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. When reheating, use the oven instead of the microwave. Oven reheating keeps the peppers warm and their texture intact, making for a great second meal.
Nutritional Information
Knowing the nutritional facts of stuffed peppers helps with meal planning. Each serving of old fashioned stuffed bell peppers has about 534 calories. It’s not just filling but also full of important nutrients.
Stuffed bell peppers offer a good mix of carbs, proteins, and fats. They’re perfect for family meals or parties. The main ingredients are bell peppers, which are low in calories but rich in vitamins A and C. Ground beef or turkey adds a lot of protein.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 534 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 65g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Vitamins | A and C |
Changing ingredients can change the nutritional values. For example, using ground turkey or a plant-based option can lower fat and calories. Swapping rice for quinoa can boost protein and fiber.
With a cost under $4 per serving, old fashioned stuffed bell peppers are both affordable and nutritious. They’re a great dish to add to your cooking collection.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Bell Peppers
Creating the perfect stuffed bell peppers requires a few key tips. These tips can boost flavor and texture, and make cooking easier. Knowing how to prepare and cook your peppers is essential for great results.
How Long Do Peppers Take in the Oven?
To get the best flavor and tender peppers, bake for 40-50 minutes at 350°F. This temperature cooks the peppers well and enhances the filling’s taste. The exact time depends on pepper size and your desired tenderness.
Using Leftover Rice Effectively
Using leftover rice can transform your stuffed peppers. It’s cost-effective and adds texture and flavor. Mix in about 1 cup of leftover rice with ground beef and fire-roasted tomatoes for a richer filling and less waste.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bell Peppers | 3 large | Create 6 stuffed halves |
| White Rice | 1 cup | Use leftover rice as a filling |
| Vegetable Stock | 2-3/4 cups | Moisture for cooking |
| Ground Beef | 1 pound | 90% lean recommended |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Enhances flavor profile |
| Cheese | As needed | Monterey Jack and White Cheddar |
| Pinto Beans | 1 can | Optional, for added texture |
FAQ
An old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe fills bell peppers with a mix of ground beef, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and spices. It’s a comforting dish that brings back memories for many families.
No, precooking is not needed. But, you can parboil the peppers for 5 minutes for a softer texture. Filling them raw helps them keep their shape while baking.
To avoid watery peppers, make sure your filling isn’t too wet. Reduce the liquid from canned tomatoes, drain them, or add breadcrumbs to soak up excess moisture.
Stuffed peppers need about 40-50 minutes at 350°F. The cooking time may vary based on pepper size, with larger ones taking longer.
Any bell pepper color works for stuffing. Green peppers are slightly bitter, while red, yellow, and orange are sweeter. Pick peppers of similar size for even cooking.
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken are healthier and flavorful. Vegetarians can use lentils, quinoa, or plant-based meat for a tasty filling.
Stuffed peppers go well with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies. These sides add freshness and balance the rich pepper flavors.
Store leftover peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven is better than microwaving to keep the texture.
Conclusion
Old fashioned stuffed bell peppers are more than a meal. They are a comfort food that brings families together. This dish combines flavors and textures, making it perfect for any family gathering.
Preparing them is easy, and you can customize the ingredients. This makes the recipe a favorite among home cooks.
Whether you stick to traditional flavors or try new ones, your stuffed peppers will impress. You can use different pepper shapes and sizes, like bell peppers or poblanos. Each bite will fill you with warmth and joy, just like a homemade meal.
Peppers are also good for your health. And this dish has a rich history. By cooking this recipe, you keep a tradition alive for your family. This ensures that stuffed bell peppers will always be a part of your cooking.