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–+ servings
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a beloved comfort food, blending tender peppers with a hearty filling of savory beef, rice, and aromatic vegetables. This dish has deep roots in European and American home cooking, where economical ingredients were combined to create wholesome, satisfying meals. The peppers soften beautifully during baking, absorbing the rich flavors of the seasoned beef and rice mixture. Whether served as a main dish for family dinners or presented at gatherings, stuffed bell peppers are cherished for their balance of nutrition, warmth, and nostalgic appeal. Their adaptability also makes them perfect for modern variations with different proteins, grains, or sauces.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine eastern european
Servings 6
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chuck (or lean ground beef)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup pepper (chopped)
  • ½ cup onion (chopped)
  • ¼ cup celery (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 4-6 bell peppers (large)
  • salt (to taste)
  • black pepper (to taste)
  • ¼ cup water (for baking dish)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Vegetables

  • Wash and core bell peppers, removing seeds. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

  • Heat oil in a skillet. Sauté chopped onion, celery, and additional peppers until softened.

Step 3: Cook Beef

  • Add ground chuck to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbly. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Add Rice & Steam

  • Stir in cooked rice. Cover and steam for about 10 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 5: Stuff Peppers

  • Fill each hollowed bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture.

Step 6: Bake

  • Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Add a little water to the dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, until peppers are tender.

Tips

  • Use a mix of green and red bell peppers for color and sweetness.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Top stuffed peppers with tomato sauce before baking for extra moisture.
  • Add shredded cheese during the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy topping.
  • Use brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and whole grains.
  • Add garlic or herbs (parsley, oregano, basil) to boost flavor.
  • Parboil whole peppers for 3 to 5 minutes before stuffing to soften them further.
  • Make ahead: assemble a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.
  • Freeze individually after baking for easy reheat-and-eat meals.
  • Add diced tomatoes to the filling for extra juiciness.

Nutrition

Calories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 20gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 6.3gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 560mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 75mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword comfort food, easy meal, family dinner, ground beef, Rice, stuffed peppers, vintage recipe, weeknight dinner
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