Stuffed bell peppers are the epitome of comfort food—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. This old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe is a throwback to simpler times, when meals were made with love, patience, and a few humble ingredients. Whether you’re reminiscing about Grandma’s kitchen or discovering this classic dish for the first time, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
🥦 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine tender bell peppers filled with a savory mix of seasoned beef, rice, and tomatoes, then baked to perfection with a bubbly cheese topping. It’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nostalgic. This recipe is:
- Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Customizable: Perfect for adding your own twist with different fillings or toppings.
- Wholesome: Packed with protein, veggies, and carbs, it’s a complete meal in one!
🛒 Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Bell Peppers | 6 medium-sized, any color | Choose firm peppers with even bottoms. |
| Ground Beef | 1 lb | Substitute with ground turkey or chicken. |
| Cooked White Rice | 1 cup | Use leftover rice for convenience. |
| Diced Tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) | Go for fire-roasted for extra flavor! |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | Adds depth to the filling. |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Fresh garlic works best. |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 can (8 oz) | For the topping and moisture. |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 tsp | Adjust based on your taste preference. |
| Shredded Cheese | 1 cup | Mozzarella or cheddar works perfectly. |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing and roasting. |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Adjust seasoning as needed. |
Tools
- A large baking dish
- Skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Aluminum foil
🍳 Step-by-Step Guide to Making Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers
1️⃣ Prep Your Peppers
- Wash and Core: Start by washing the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes inside.
- Parboil: For tender peppers, boil them in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain and let cool.
2️⃣ Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, cooking until browned.
- Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat, rice, diced tomatoes, and half the tomato sauce. Mix until well incorporated.
3️⃣ Stuff the Peppers
- Fill Generously: Spoon the filling into each pepper, pressing lightly to pack it in.
- Top It Off: Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection
- Arrange and Cover: Place the peppers upright in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
🌟 Tips & Variations
Make It Your Own
- Add Veggies: Include chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach in the filling for added nutrients.
- Go Low-Carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
- Switch the Protein: Use ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Lovers Rejoice
Experiment with cheeses like Parmesan, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
Spice It Up
Love a little heat? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
🥘 What to Serve with Stuffed Bell Peppers
Pair these stuffed peppers with:
- A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Crusty garlic bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- A side of roasted veggies for a complete, balanced meal.
📖 Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe! This dish is a timeless classic, perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even potlucks. The combination of tender peppers, flavorful filling, and melty cheese is guaranteed to impress.
Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below, or let us know your favorite variations. Cooking is all about sharing, so tag your friends and family, and let’s keep the tradition alive!
Here are two external links related to old-fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipes:
- Eating Richly: A recipe with a traditional approach to stuffed bell peppers, offering variations and tips such as using different colors of peppers and adding cheese for an indulgent touch. It also provides insights on preparation and serving suggestions. You can explore it here【14】.
- Bowl Me Over: This recipe combines ground beef, Italian sausage, and rice, topped with melty cheese. It includes detailed preparation steps and additional seasoning ideas to enhance the flavor. Check out the recipe here【15】.
These resources provide excellent options for crafting a delicious old-fashioned stuffed bell pepper dish.