At Delish, we’re passionate about stuffed peppers, and for good reason! Peppers, with their sturdy structure and versatile flavor, serve as the perfect vessels for a variety of fillings, making them an ideal canvas for countless combinations. This classic recipe, a fan favorite and one of our top picks of 2022, is not only straightforward but also a budget-friendly option for easy weeknight dinners, catering to families of all sizes. While we adore experimenting with different variations, there’s something timeless about this particular recipe that’s hard to surpass. Explore why it’s cherished by our community and use it as a starting point to craft your personalized stuffed pepper masterpiece.
How to Prep Peppers for Stuffing:
Preparing peppers for stuffing is a breeze! Simply cut off the tops (we recommend using a small paring knife to carve a circle around the stem, akin to carving a pumpkin) and remove the core and seeds. Turning the peppers upside down over the sink and tapping them helps eliminate excess seeds. Rinsing them out or leaving a few seeds is no cause for concern; it won’t impact your dish.
To Cook or Not to Cook the Peppers Before Stuffing:
While you can precook the peppers, our preference is to leave them raw. Filling raw peppers is more manageable, and this approach ensures they retain a bit of texture post-baking. If you opt for pre-cooking, be cautious not to overbake; the goal is tender peppers without turning them mushy.
The Filling & Variations:
Our recipe keeps it simple, classic, and economical, featuring beefy tomato rice and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Yet, you have the freedom to fully customize these peppers to suit your taste and use available ingredients. Swap ground beef for other proteins (pork, turkey, chicken, Italian sausage) and experiment with your favorite melty cheeses. For more inspiration, try our Greek stuffed peppers, cheesesteak stuffed peppers, or vegetarian stuffed peppers with falafel.
Baking Duration:
In this recipe, bake for a total of 45 minutes: 35 minutes covered with foil for a slight steam and tender result, followed by an additional 10 minutes uncovered to achieve that golden and bubbly cheese.
Make-Ahead Option:
Absolutely! Prepare a day ahead by cutting and coring your peppers, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. Likewise, prepare the filling and store it separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, fill and bake until tender.
Yields: 6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories per serving: 419
Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comment section below!