Creole Stuffed Peppers
Creole Stuffed Peppers feature tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and spices, then baked to perfection. The dish offers a delightful blend of Creole flavors with a hint of cinnamon and cloves, making it a hearty and flavorful meal for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the peppers, opened from the top and cleaned, for 5 minutes in salted water.
- Combine ground hamburger, 1/4 cup minced onion, minced celery, salt, egg, and evaporated milk in a mixing bowl.
- Drain the peppers and stuff them with the meat mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in an 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Heat the oven to 350°F and bake the stuffed peppers until cooked through and browned, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked smoked ham into the stuffing mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a leaner option. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Creole stuffed peppers with a side of rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. They also pair well with cornbread or crusty bread to soak up any juices. For a comforting touch, consider serving with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Stuffed Peppers contains roughly 663 calories, with 12g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2544mg per serving (111% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to use, just stuff the peppers and proceed with baking as directed.
What can I use instead of bell peppers?
If you're looking for alternatives to bell peppers, zucchini or large tomatoes can be excellent choices. Both can be hollowed out and stuffed with the same filling for a delicious twist.
How do I know when the peppers are done?
The peppers are done when they are tender and the meat filling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can also check for a nice golden brown color on top to ensure they're cooked through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).