Liz'S Stuffed Peppers
Colorful stuffed peppers filled with savory ground meat, rice, and cheese, baked to perfection—perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests seeking hearty, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in a large skillet and drain excess fat.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions and add instant rice during preparation.
- In a large pot, combine the cooked meat, rice mixture, tomato sauce, tomato salsa, tomato paste, shredded Cheddar cheese, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Stuff the peppers with the meat and rice mixture, then place them in a baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes until peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding some sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you prefer a spicier flavor, use hot salsa instead of mild. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and use quinoa or riced cauliflower in place of the broccoli rice for a different texture. Make sure to season the filling well to enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed peppers with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with a light vinaigrette dressing or a dollop of sour cream on top. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside a dish like Dirty Rice(Serves 40 People) or a warm bowl of soup. These peppers also make great leftovers for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, microwaving in 1-minute intervals until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Liz'S Stuffed Peppers contains roughly 555 calories, with 25g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg per serving (25% 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 before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Just assemble them, place in a freezer-safe dish, and cover tightly. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This is a great way to prepare meals in advance.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.
How do I know when the peppers are done baking?
The peppers are done when they are tender and the filling is heated through, usually after about 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). You can test by pricking a pepper with a fork; it should be soft but not mushy.
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).