Meat Stuffed Green Peppers
Juicy green peppers stuffed with savory pork, beef, tomatoes, and melted mozzarella, baked to perfection—ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests craving hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown sausage and ground round in a large pan with the chopped onions.
- Drain the meat mixture and let it cool.
- Return the meat mixture to the pan.
- Cut the tops out of the green peppers.
- Parboil the peppers for 5 minutes.
- Drain and cool the peppers.
- Add chopped tomatoes to the meat mixture and mix in all but 1/4 cup of grated cheese.
- Stuff each green pepper full of the meat and tomato mixture, pressing down firmly.
- Top each stuffed pepper with the remaining grated cheese.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a glass baking dish.
- Add about 1/2 inch of water to the dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 18 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like basil or oregano into the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, swap the pork sausage for turkey sausage. You can also add cooked rice or quinoa for extra texture and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different cheese types, such as cheddar, for a unique twist. These stuffed peppers are a great way to use up leftover vegetables, too.
Serving Suggestions
These meat stuffed green peppers are perfect as a main dish and pair well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve with Baked Beans In-A-Hurry. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or serve with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for added flavor. Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a comforting dinner experience.
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 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 for about 15 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Stuffed Green Peppers contains roughly 545 calories, with 43g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (85% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2025mg per serving (88% 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 use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pork sausage and ground round with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just adjust the seasoning to ensure the flavors are balanced.
How do I know when the stuffed peppers are done?
The stuffed peppers are ready when they are heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. You can also check the peppers' tenderness by piercing them with a fork; they should be slightly soft but still hold their shape.
Can I prepare these stuffed peppers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time. Assemble the peppers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge when you put them in the oven.
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).