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“Hearty, cheesy, and packed with savory rice & beef – just like Grandma used to make!”
Introduction
Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are a nostalgic, all-in-one comfort food that delivers on flavor and heartiness. With savory ground beef, seasoned Spanish rice, and rich tomato sauce tucked into tender bell peppers, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. It’s a true celebration of timeless home cooking.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Stuffed peppers have roots in cuisines across the globe—from Mediterranean dolmas to Eastern European holubtsi—but the American classic version, especially popular in mid-20th century kitchens, gained traction for being both economical and filling. This rendition, often featured in family cookbooks and handed down through generations, showcases the simplicity and resourcefulness of traditional American home cooking.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6)
- 6 green bell peppers (tops sliced off and seeds removed)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 box Spanish Rice-A-Roni (6.87 oz)
- 1 can tomato sauce (16 oz)
Optional Additions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth
- Red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish
- Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for variety
- Add a small handful of corn or black beans to the filling for texture and color
Tips for Success
- Pre-cook the peppers for 3–5 minutes in boiling water or microwave to ensure they bake up tender.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef after browning to avoid a greasy filling.
- Spoon filling generously, packing it slightly to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
- Cover with foil for the first half of baking to keep the peppers moist, then uncover to let the tops crisp up.
- Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps everything set and intensifies the flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare bell peppers by slicing off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes.
- Optional: Blanch peppers in boiling water for 3–4 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened and beef is browned. Drain fat.
- Prepare Spanish Rice-A-Roni according to package directions.
- Combine the cooked beef mixture, rice, and 1 cup of the tomato sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Stuff each pepper with the mixture and place upright in a baking dish. Pour remaining tomato sauce over the tops.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Optional: Remove foil, top with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Description
Each stuffed bell pepper is a perfectly portioned bundle of warmth—savory, slightly tangy from the tomato sauce, and deeply satisfying. The green pepper becomes tender and sweet in the oven, providing a vibrant shell for the flavorful beef and rice filling. Topped with melted cheese, this dish is rustic, comforting, and crowd-pleasing.
Nutritional Information (Per stuffed pepper, approx.)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~15g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Sodium: ~640mg
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~6g
Conclusion
Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are a cozy, family-friendly favorite that delivers both nostalgia and nourishment. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a Sunday gathering, these peppers are a wholesome and delicious option that always hits the spot.
Recommendation
Serve with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans to round out the meal. They also reheat beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten the dish, swap in lean ground turkey or chicken, use brown rice or cauliflower rice, and go easy on the cheese or choose a low-fat variety. For even more veggies, mix chopped spinach or zucchini into the filling. These small adjustments help preserve the comfort of the original while making it more nourishing.
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