Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that is both easy to prepare and visually appealing? Look no further than the recipe for baked stuffed peppers! This dish combines the rich flavors of a variety of ingredients, wrapped in the tender, juicy flesh of bell peppers. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a healthy meal at home, baked stuffed peppers are sure to impress.
Baked stuffed peppers are a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. The filling can be made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and grains, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect baked stuffed peppers, along with some tips and variations to keep your meal interesting.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers
– 1 pound ground turkey or beef
– 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
– 1 cup chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup salsa
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Brush the inside of the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey or beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the chopped vegetables to the skillet and cook until they are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa or brown rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, salsa, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the filling simmer for a few minutes.
6. Spoon the filling into the hollowed-out bell peppers, filling them almost to the top.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade baked stuffed peppers!
Variations:
– For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground turkey or beef with cooked lentils or tofu.
– Add a splash of lime juice to the filling for a refreshing zing.
– Sprinkle some chopped cilantro or green onions on top for an extra burst of flavor.
– For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or jalapeño peppers to the filling.
Baked stuffed peppers are a fantastic way to incorporate a variety of nutrients into your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal. With this recipe, you can create a delicious dish that is both healthy and flavorful. So go ahead and give this recipe for baked stuffed peppers a try, and let us know how it turns out!
