Stuffed bell peppers are a timeless dish that brings together the warmth of home-cooked meals with the rich, comforting flavors of a family favorite. The combination of tender bell peppers, savory ground beef, flavorful Spanish rice, and melted cheese makes this dish both satisfying and delightful. I first discovered this recipe at a family gathering, where the vibrant colors and enticing aroma of the stuffed peppers caught my attention. Since then, it has become a beloved recipe in my household, perfect for cozy dinners and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
6 large bell peppers, tops removed and seeded
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, finely diced
1 box (6 7/8 oz) Spanish-flavored Rice-a-Roni
1 can (16 oz) tomato sauce
1 tsp sugar
1 can (14 1/2 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the peppers cook evenly and become tender.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the peppers upright. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Wash the Peppers: Rinse the bell peppers under cold water to remove any dirt or residue.
Cut and Clean: Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Set the prepared pepper shells aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion.
Brown the Beef: Cook the beef and onion until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are tender. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Drain the Grease: Drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy filling.
Step 4: Make the Rice Mixture
Prepare the Rice-a-Roni: Follow the package directions to cook the Spanish-flavored Rice-a-Roni. This typically involves sautéing the rice mixture in a bit of butter until golden brown, then adding water and the seasoning packet and simmering until the rice is tender.
Add the Tomato Sauce: Once the Rice-a-Roni is cooked, stir in the can of tomato sauce.
Add the Sugar: Mix in 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Incorporate the Diced Tomatoes: Add the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice, to the rice mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Combine the Beef and Rice Mixture
Mix Together: Add the cooked beef and onions to the rice mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the Filling: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each prepared pepper cavity. Pack the filling well to ensure each pepper is full and compact.
Place in Baking Dish: Stand the stuffed peppers upright in the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Bake the Peppers
Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This allows the peppers to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
Check for Tenderness: After 40 minutes, check the peppers for tenderness by piercing them with a fork. They should be soft but not mushy.
Step 8: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove Foil: Carefully remove the foil from the baking dish.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar or American cheese evenly over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
Return to Oven: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Rest the Peppers: Let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to set and makes them easier to serve.
Serve Hot: Serve the stuffed peppers hot, perhaps with a side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal.
Variations & Tips
Different Meats: For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This can lighten the dish and add a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with a mixture of beans, such as black beans or chickpeas, and additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a unique flavor.
Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables to the filling, such as corn, peas, or spinach, to boost the nutritional value and add more texture.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef and rice mixture.
Make Ahead: These stuffed peppers can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes them perfect for meal prepping.
Conclusion
Homestyle Stuffed Bell Peppers are more than just a meal; they are a comforting classic that brings people together. The combination of tender bell peppers, savory ground beef, flavorful Spanish rice, and melted cheese creates a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Whether served for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a special occasion, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress and delight.
The appeal of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nourishing dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the variations and substitutions allow you to tailor the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Homestyle Stuffed Bell Peppers and the joy of sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones.