Stuffed Peppers Recipe Beef

Save

Introduction

Stuffed peppers, a classic dish enjoyed worldwide, offer a delightful combination of tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture. The “stuffed peppers recipe beef” variation is particularly popular, providing a hearty and satisfying meal option. Its appeal lies in the balance of textures and flavors, the ease of customization, and its suitability for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The dish provides a comforting and visually appealing presentation.

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (various colors for visual appeal) 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular, depending on preference) 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup cooked rice (long-grain or brown rice) 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried basil Salt and pepper to taste 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend) Optional: 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Substitutions: Ground turkey or sausage can be used instead of ground beef. Quinoa or other grains can replace rice. Diced tomatoes with green chilies add a spicy kick.

Preparation Steps

1. Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Slice off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes. A small spoon or knife helps with this task. 2. Pre-cook the peppers slightly to soften them. This can be done by blanching them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, steaming them for 5-7 minutes, or microwaving them for 2-3 minutes. Drain well. 3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. 4. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. 6. Stir in optional ingredients like chopped green bell pepper and parsley.
Tip: Season the ground beef mixture generously for maximum flavor. Pre-cooking the rice beforehand ensures a consistent texture in the finished dish.

Cooking Instructions

The “stuffed peppers recipe beef” can be cooked with these two cooking methods.
Baking:

1. Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
2. Spoon the beef mixture into the prepared bell peppers, packing it firmly.
3. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, standing upright.
4. Pour a small amount of water (about 1/2 inch) into the bottom of the dish to prevent the peppers from drying out.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil, sprinkle the tops of the peppers with shredded cheese, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.

Slow Cooker:

1. Spray the inside of a slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Spoon the beef mixture into the prepared bell peppers, packing it firmly.
3. Place the stuffed peppers in the slow cooker, standing upright. You may need to prop them up to prevent them from falling over.
4. Pour 1/2 cup of water or tomato sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the peppers are tender.
6. Sprinkle with shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own, but they can be enhanced with various side dishes. Consider serving them with a side salad, crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast to the rich filling. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal. The dish pairs well with a light-bodied red wine or a crisp white wine.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Avoid overcooking the bell peppers, as they can become mushy. Blanching or steaming them lightly before stuffing helps maintain their texture. Don’t overfill the peppers, as the filling may spill out during cooking. Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning of the beef mixture before stuffing the peppers. Adding a small amount of sugar to the tomato sauce can balance the acidity. Ensure the peppers are standing upright in the baking dish or slow cooker to prevent the filling from spilling. A common mistake is not draining the cooked beef properly, resulting in a greasy filling. Another frequent error is under-seasoning the beef mixture, leading to a bland dish.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning the “stuffed peppers recipe beef” unlocks a world of culinary possibilities, offering a flavorful, nutritious, and customizable meal option. This dish embodies comfort food at its best, blending savory beef with tender peppers in a symphony of flavors. Whether you adhere to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, stuffed peppers are a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. Embrace the joy of cooking and create this delightful meal at home. For more cooking guides and recipe inspiration, visit foodrecipestory.com.