Doug'S Stuffed Bell Peppers
Juicy stuffed bell peppers filled with flavorful ground beef, rice, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a hearty family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion; drain off excess grease.
- Add garlic powder and Joe sauce (Manwich sauce); mix well.
- Stir in cooked rice; combine thoroughly.
- Spoon the mixture into halved bell peppers and place them in a small baking pan.
- Add enough water to cover the bottom of the pan to prevent burning the pepper bottoms.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Optional: Top with cheddar cheese, return to oven, and melt before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating diced tomatoes or corn into the beef mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, to complement the dish. Ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing to prevent sogginess during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed bell peppers make a hearty main dish and pair well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a flavorful twist, serve with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top. They also complement other hearty meals, like Shepherd's Pie in 25 Minutes, for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Doug'S Stuffed Bell Peppers contains roughly 10 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 these stuffed bell peppers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and stuff the bell peppers before baking. Store the stuffed peppers in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
What types of bell peppers work best?
While any color of bell pepper works, green peppers offer a slightly more bitter flavor, whereas red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter. Choose based on your preference; a mix of colors can also provide a vibrant presentation.
Can I freeze the stuffed bell peppers?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the stuffed bell peppers but do not bake them. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).