Party Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with savory ground beef and herbs, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests seeking a hearty, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut peppers in half through the stem, remove and discard seeds, and place in a lightly greased 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan, cut side up.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, crushed garlic, salt, beaten egg, bread crumbs, and tomato sauce; blend well.
- Use a scoop to equally divide the beef mixture into the inside of each bell pepper, pressing gently to fill all of the inside. Heap on top if necessary.
- Pour 1 quart of prepared spaghetti sauce over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the beef is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can be added to the filling for extra texture. Feel free to substitute the bread crumbs with crushed crackers or oats for a different twist. Experiment with spices like oregano or basil to enhance the dish further. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, reminiscent of American recipes like Dad'S Easy Goulash Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving them alongside Beefy Spaghetti Soup for a hearty gathering. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated cheese on top before serving can add a nice touch. Enjoy them hot for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Stuffed Bell Peppers contains roughly 323 calories, with 7g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 908mg 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 these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance. Assemble them up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they heat through completely.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for ground beef if you're looking for a lighter option. Vegetarian alternatives like lentils or a mix of beans can also be used for a meatless version, maintaining the flavor and texture.
How can I tell when the stuffed peppers are done?
The stuffed peppers are done when the beef is cooked through and the peppers are tender. You can check the internal temperature of the beef with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (70°C). The peppers should also be slightly soft but still hold their shape.
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).