Irresistible Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Herbs Recipe

Name: Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup fresh parsley or basil (chopped); 1 lb ground meat (beef or turkey; optional) or 1 cup cooked lentils; 1 tsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar; optional)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

May 29, 2025

Updated:

May 29, 2025

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There’s something magical about stuffed bell peppers with rice and herbs. As you slice into their vibrant skins, the sweet aroma wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds. The first bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, with tender rice mingling with fragrant herbs and the slight crunch of the bell pepper. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

I remember the first time I made stuffed bell peppers with rice and herbs for my family. The kids’ eyes widened in surprise when they saw dinner. They loved it so much that they practically inhaled their plates, leaving me wondering if I should’ve made more. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends at a gathering. Trust me, this culinary experience will leave everyone begging for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These stuffed bell peppers are super easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Bursting with flavor from fresh herbs and spices, they appeal to all ages
The vibrant colors create an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal
Plus, they’re versatile enough to adapt based on what’s in your fridge!

One time, I brought these stuffed bell peppers to a potluck, and they disappeared faster than my dog at the sight of food.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bell Peppers: Choose firm, bright-colored peppers; they’re not just pretty but also sweeter when cooked.
Cooked Rice: Leftover rice works great here; it saves time and adds flavor from previous meals.
Fresh Herbs: Use parsley or basil for that fresh kick that elevates the entire dish; dried works too!
Ground Meat (optional): Ground beef or turkey adds heartiness; feel free to go plant-based with lentils instead.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatic duo adds depth of flavor; sauté them until fragrant for the best results.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned or fresh add moisture and tanginess while enhancing the stuffing’s overall flavor.
Cheese (optional): A sprinkle of mozzarella or cheddar on top creates a gooey finish that everyone loves.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Now, let’s get our hands dirty and dive into creating these beautiful stuffed bell peppers.

Prepare Your Bell Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you cut the tops off each bell pepper and scoop out the seeds. This step allows for ample space for stuffing!

Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil before tossing in chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until translucent and fragrant—around 3-4 minutes.

Add Fillings: Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, fresh herbs, and ground meat if using. Mix thoroughly until everything is well-combined—about another 5 minutes on low heat will enhance those flavors.

Stuff Your Peppers: Grab each hollowed-out pepper and generously pack it with your delicious filling mixture. Don’t be shy! Pile it high like you’re preparing for a food competition.

Bake to Perfection: Place your stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish filled with a splash of water (this keeps them moist). Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender yet still hold their shape.

Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle cheese over each pepper during the last 5 minutes of baking so it melts perfectly into gooey goodness.

Serve these colorful stuffed bell peppers warm out of the oven and watch as everyone digs in! Their delightful flavor will surely become an instant favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

Stuffed bell peppers with rice and herbs are a colorful, nutritious dish
They not only look delightful on your plate but also burst with flavor, making them a family favorite
Perfect for meal prep, they can be customized to fit any dietary need

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating the oven and cooking the rice while you prepare the peppers. This time-saving method ensures everything is ready simultaneously for delicious stuffed bell peppers.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out proteins or add different herbs based on your taste. You can experiment with cheese types or even try quinoa for an extra twist in your stuffed bell peppers.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring each bite remains flavorful.

Chef's Helpful Tips

These tips will make your stuffed bell peppers shine bright
Remember, it’s all about flavor balance and presentation, so don’t rush the process!
Choose fresh herbs for vibrant taste; dried herbs can lose their potency over time.
Stuffed bell peppers can be assembled ahead of time, saving you precious minutes during busy weeknights.

Cooking these stuffed bell peppers reminds me of my childhood kitchen chaos, where we’d race against time to finish dinner before our favorite TV show started. Those were the days!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other grains instead of rice in stuffed bell peppers?

Yes, quinoa or couscous works wonderfully as tasty alternatives to rice.

How long do I bake stuffed bell peppers?

Bake them at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until they are tender.

Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Absolutely! They freeze well before baking, making meal prep easy and convenient.

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