Plantation Stuffed Peppers
Plantation Stuffed Peppers offer a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender peppers filled with seasoned beef, rice, and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe delivers a savory, comforting meal with a touch of spice and rich cheese goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, chopped onions, and chopped garlic until the meat is browned.
- Add salt, chili powder, pepper, and tomato soup; simmer, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Add cheese and cook slowly until the cheese melts.
- Stir in cooked rice.
- Cool the mixture.
- Cut peppers in half lengthwise and cook in boiling salted water for 3 minutes.
- Drain and cool the peppers.
- Stuff the peppers with the rice mixture.
- Wrap the stuffed peppers and freeze.
- To serve, place partially thawed peppers in a shallow pan.
- Cover with foil and bake at 400°F for 30 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can add a can of black beans for extra protein and flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Always taste the filling before stuffing the peppers to adjust seasonings. Consider using leftover rice from a Rice Dinner for added convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed peppers with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can enhance the flavors. They also pair beautifully with Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup if you're looking for a comforting duo. For a fun twist, try serving them with a side of spaghetti.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plantation Stuffed Peppers contains roughly 503 calories, with 21g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1341mg per serving (58% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. You can also freeze them before baking, which makes for a quick meal option later.
What other fillings can I use?
You can get creative with the fillings! Consider using quinoa, chicken, or even a mix of vegetables. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding feta cheese, olives, and herbs. The versatility of stuffed peppers allows for endless possibilities.
How do I know when the peppers are done cooking?
The stuffed peppers are done when they are tender and the filling is heated through. If using a meat thermometer, it should read 165°F in the center. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, giving a delicious golden color.
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).