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Cheesy Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Colorful, flavorful, and brimming with the perfect mix of ingredients, stuffed peppers are a timeless dish that have earned their place on dinner tables around the world. From hearty Mediterranean-inspired recipes to Tex-Mex takes, stuffed peppers have a long history of satisfying appetites across cultures.
Today, we’re sharing a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen—Cheesy Beef Stuffed Peppers. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also packed with nutrients and customizable for various diets, making it perfect for foodies, home cooks, and health-conscious eaters alike.
This recipe provides a delicious, healthy, and effortless dinner option. Keep reading to learn more about the health benefits of this dish and how to create it with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Beef Stuffed Peppers
These stuffed peppers aren’t just delicious—they’re a nutrition-packed powerhouse! Below are a few reasons why they’re a winner for any meal plan.
Nutritional Value
- Bell Peppers are loaded with Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Their vibrant colors not only brighten your plate but also offer an array of health benefits.
- Lean Ground Beef provides a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall energy. Look for 90% lean or higher to keep it healthy.
- Cheese delivers a creamy, satisfying finish while offering a source of calcium.
Versatile and Diet-Friendly
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Simply swap the rice in the stuffing for cauliflower rice to create a keto version.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free when made without breadcrumbs.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
Healthy, customizable, and undeniably tasty—what more could you ask for?
Step-by-Step Cheesy Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Are you ready to create a showstopping dish? Follow these easy steps to prepare cheesy beef stuffed peppers that will wow your taste buds and impress your dinner guests!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (or cauliflower rice for keto)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Prep the Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
Cook the Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant (about 2 minutes), then add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in tightly.
Bake with Cheese
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, top each pepper with shredded cheese, and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Pro Tip: Pair these cheesy stuffed peppers with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
Read more: Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers
Set yourself up for success with these helpful tips and tricks!
- Choosing the Right Peppers
Bell peppers in red, yellow, and orange tend to be sweeter and pair beautifully with the savory filling. Green peppers have a milder, earthy flavor if you prefer less sweetness.
- Pre-Cooking Peppers (Optional)
For extra-soft peppers, parboil them in boiling water for 3 minutes before stuffing and baking.
- Customize the Flavor
Add a teaspoon of chili powder for a smoky kick or mix in black beans and corn for a Southwest-inspired twist.
- Texture Tips
For an extra-crispy topping, broil the peppers for 2 minutes at the end of baking.
Pairing Suggestions
Turn this dish into a gourmet meal with these serving suggestions!
Side Dishes
- Garlic butter green beans
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- A simple Caesar salad
Wine Pairing
- A robust red wine like Malbec complements the richness of the beef.
Non-Alcoholic Options
- Sparkling water with lime or a refreshing iced tea works beautifully.
Give It a Try!
Cheesy Beef Stuffed Peppers are the ultimate satisfying meal—flavorful, nutritious, and easy to customize. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to please.
Happy cooking!
Hello, my name is Mary. I’m a passionate food and drink enthusiast, sharing flavorful recipes, creative drinks, and culinary inspiration from around the world. With a love for exploring new tastes and traditions, I bring a mix of easy-to-follow guides and expert tips to make every meal an adventure. Follow along for delicious discoveries and a toast to positive living!