Fresh Stuffed Peppers
Fresh stuffed peppers filled with savory beef, rice, and tomatoes, baked to perfection. A hearty, flavorful dish ideal for family dinners and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the peppers in salt water for 5 minutes.
- Drain and cool slightly.
- Cook ground beef and diced onion until browned.
- Mix cooked beef, onion, salt, pepper, sage, ketchup, cooked rice, and chopped tomatoes together.
- Stuff the mixture into the cooled peppers.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a greased casserole dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 35 to 45 minutes.
- Serve with salad and garlic bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of ground chuck for a lighter option. You can substitute quinoa for rice for a gluten-free version. Adding shredded cheese on top before baking can enhance the dish's richness. If you love a bit of spice, include diced jalapeños in the stuffing mixture. Make sure to not overcook the peppers; they should still have a slight crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers are delicious served alongside a fresh salad and crusty garlic bread. For a more filling meal, pair them with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light pasta salad. They also make a great main dish for a casual dinner or a potluck. For a fun twist, serve with a side of Aunt Mickey's Punch Bowl Dessert for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed peppers in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Stuffed Peppers contains roughly 207 calories, with 4g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (133% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2799mg per serving (122% 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 these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance. Simply assemble the filling and stuff the peppers, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing them in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of green peppers?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers, which are sweeter. For a low-carb option, zucchini or eggplant can also work well as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since these vegetables may have different textures.
How do I know when the stuffed peppers are done?
The stuffed peppers are done when they are tender and the filling is heated through. You can check this by inserting a fork into the side; it should slide in easily. If you're using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature of the filling should reach 165°F.
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).