Dave'S Stuffed Peppers
Juicy stuffed bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, pork, veal, and rice, baked to perfection and optionally topped with shredded cheese for added flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Parboil the rice until partially cooked.
- Combine all ingredients into a large bowl and mix well by hand.
- Poke the bottom of each bell pepper with a two-pronged fork.
- Fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake at 325°F for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Optional: Add shredded cheese on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding some Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef, pork, and veal. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious twist. Don't skip the step of poking holes in the peppers; this helps release steam during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed peppers with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef-Barley Soup for a cozy dinner. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or grated cheese on top before serving to elevate presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through, or microwave them for a quicker option. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; just make sure to cool them completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dave'S Stuffed Peppers contains roughly 564 calories, with 22g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1456mg per serving (63% 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 stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh.
What kind of bell peppers work best?
While any color of bell pepper can be used, red, yellow, or orange peppers tend to be sweeter and more flavorful than green ones. They also add a vibrant color to your dish, making it more appealing.
Can I add vegetables to the stuffing?
Yes! Chopped onions, zucchini, or mushrooms can be great additions to the stuffing mix. Sauté them first to enhance their flavor before mixing them with the meat and rice. This not only adds nutrition but also increases the overall flavor profile of your stuffed peppers.
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).