Stuffed Pepper Pot
A hearty stuffed pepper dish featuring seasoned ground beef and rice, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut a thin slice from the stem end of each green pepper and remove the seeds.
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish, combine chopped onion and ground beef.
- Microwave the mixture on High for 2 to 3 minutes or until the beef is slightly browned.
- Add cooked rice, tomato sauce, chopped celery, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Mix well.
- Stuff the peppers with the beef and rice mixture and place them on a microwavable baking sheet.
- Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap.
- Microwave on Medium-high for 12 to 15 minutes until the peppers are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken in place of beef. You can also substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for the traditional rice for a low-carb option. Adding spices such as cumin or paprika can enhance the flavor profile. If using fresh peppers, look for firm ones without soft spots for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed peppers with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with Eileen's Chili for a hearty dinner spread. For an extra touch, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving, or add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warm, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Pepper Pot contains roughly 424 calories, with 9g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (337% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2452mg per serving (107% 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 peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance. Assemble them and store them in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap. When ready to cook, simply microwave or bake them, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you prefer a different flavor, consider using salsa, diced tomatoes, or even barbecue sauce as a substitute for tomato sauce. Each option will provide a unique twist to the dish while still keeping the peppers moist.
Can stuffed peppers be frozen?
Absolutely! Once cooked and cooled, stuffed peppers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then microwave or bake until warmed through.
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).