Nana'S Pepper Stuffing
Nana's Pepper Stuffing offers a savory blend of sautéed onions, sweet bell peppers, tomatoes, and smoked ham, all stuffed into tender peppers and topped with melted cheese. Rich and flavorful, it's perfect for a comforting family meal or special occasion that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté chopped onions, peppers, and tomatoes in bacon grease until soft and well done.
- Add smoked ham bits and cook until most of the liquid is gone, about 30 minutes or more.
- Add bread slices one at a time, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches the desired thickness and sticks to the bread.
- Fill parboiled peppers placed in an 8-inch square pan with the stuffing mixture.
- Top the stuffed peppers with any kind of cheese.
- Place in a preheated oven at 400°F until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using leftover cooked chicken or turkey instead of smoked ham bits. If you want a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. Sourdough or whole grain bread can also add unique flavors. Ensure to chop the vegetables uniformly for even cooking and flavor distribution.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers can be served as a main dish or as a hearty side. They pair wonderfully with a fresh Spinach Salad With Sweet Parsley Dressing for a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a simple grain dish like quinoa or rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of broth or water.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Pepper Stuffing contains roughly 1131 calories, with 9g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 896mg per serving (39% 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 this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and fill the peppers just before baking. This will save time on busy days and allow the flavors to meld together nicely.
What type of cheese works best on top?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese are great options for topping the stuffed peppers. Each adds a different flavor profile – cheddar provides sharpness, mozzarella offers creaminess, and pepper jack adds a bit of spice.
Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw them 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).