Stuffed Pepper Cups
Savory stuffed pepper cups filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and melted American cheese, perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut off tops of green peppers; remove seeds and membranes.
- Pre-cook green pepper cups in boiling salted water for about 5 minutes; drain.
- Sprinkle inside of cups generously with salt.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned.
- Add tomatoes, water, rice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet; simmer until rice is tender.
- Stuff the cooked peppers with the beef mixture and top with shredded American cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped garlic or herbs like oregano and basil to the beef mixture. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or quinoa. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different taste. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed pepper cups alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. For an easy appetizer, consider making a batch of Hot Hamburger Dip as a complement to the hearty flavors of the stuffed peppers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Pepper Cups contains roughly 649 calories, with 15g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1532mg per serving (67% 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 prepare stuffed pepper cups in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover them, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, ground turkey or chicken are great lean options. For vegetarian versions, try using black beans, chickpeas, or a mixture of sautéed vegetables. Additionally, quinoa or rice can be added for texture and bulk, making it a satisfying dish.
How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
To adjust the spice level, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicier cheese, such as pepper jack, or serve with a hot sauce on the side. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit any additional spices and stick to the basic seasoning.
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).