Hungarian-Stuffed Peppers
Hungarian-Stuffed Peppers are a comforting dish filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices, all baked until tender and flavorful. The rich taste of V-8 adds depth, making it a hearty meal perfect for families or anyone craving a taste of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the peppers by removing the white sections.
- Mix the ground beef, rice, egg, and garlic powder.
- Fill the peppers with the mixture and place them in a deep cooking vessel.
- Cover the filled peppers with V-8.
- Cook for 1 hour at 350°.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the filling with paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you're out of rice, quinoa or couscous can make a great substitute. To save time, precook the rice before mixing it with the beef. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the beef with lentils or a hearty mix of mushrooms and beans. This dish is reminiscent of traditional Hungarian Goulash.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed peppers with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair them with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices or a fresh green salad for a lighter option. A side of roasted vegetables complements the dish well and adds extra nutrients. This meal is perfect for family dinners or as a filling lunch.
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 covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, covered, for 2-3 minutes, checking for even heating. Enjoy them as a quick meal option!
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungarian-Stuffed Peppers contains roughly 975 calories, with 26g protein, 180g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, stuffed peppers freeze well! After cooking, let them cool completely, then wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils, black beans, or a mix of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms and zucchini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using beans or lentils.
How do I know when the peppers are done?
The stuffed peppers are done when the peppers are tender and the filling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can test for doneness by piercing the peppers with a fork; they should be soft but not falling apart. If you prefer them softer, you can extend the cooking time by an additional 10-15 minutes.
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).