Peppy Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed green peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, onions, and tomato sauce, then baked to tender perfection, making a hearty, flavorful meal suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Halve the green peppers lengthwise, remove seeds, and wash them.
- Lightly mix ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onions, salt, pepper, and half of the tomato sauce.
- Pile the meat mixture into the pepper halves and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers.
- Cover tightly and bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until the peppers are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning. If you prefer a healthier version, substitute ground turkey for the lean ground beef. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed peppers with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They also pair well with roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes. For a comforting twist, consider serving them alongside Beef 'N Biscuit Casserole for a hearty dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppy Stuffed Peppers contains roughly 425 calories, with 25g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (398% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1916mg per serving (83% 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 stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance. Assemble them as instructed, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a convenient meal option on busy days.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce on hand, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes. Alternatively, a jar of marinara sauce works well too. Just be mindful of the seasoning, as some sauces may be more flavorful than plain tomato sauce.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked or uncooked stuffed peppers. If freezing uncooked, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing them in a freezer bag. For cooked peppers, let them cool completely before freezing. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
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).