Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers - A Comfort Food Classic
Prep time: 1h | 6 Servings
When it comes to hearty, wholesome meals that remind you of home, old fashioned stuffed bell peppers are hard to beat. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, offering a perfect balance of savory meat, tender rice, rich tomato sauce, and sweet bell peppers. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, stuffed peppers bring comfort and nutrition to the table.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about old fashioned stuffed bell peppers from their history to ingredients, cooking tips, variations, and a step-by-step recipe you can try today.
Why Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Are a Timeless Favorite
Stuffed bell peppers have been a household staple for decades, especially in American and European kitchens. Their popularity stems from:
Affordability – Bell peppers, rice, and ground meat are budget-friendly.
Versatility – You can fill peppers with beef, chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options like lentils.
Nutrition – Each pepper is a complete meal, packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Comfort factor – The dish is warm, hearty, and nostalgic, often reminding us of Sunday dinners at grandma’s house.
The “old fashioned” style emphasizes simple, wholesome ingredients and slow cooking for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
The heart of old fashioned stuffed bell peppers lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
6 large bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or a mix)
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 cup cooked white rice (you can also use brown rice or quinoa)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional topping)
Directions
Follow this simple process for perfect stuffed peppers every time:
1. Prepare the Peppers
Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Boil the peppers in salted water for about 5 minutes to soften them slightly. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Filling
In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Stir in rice, half of the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
3. Stuff and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the peppers upright in a baking dish. Spoon the meat mixture into each pepper, pressing down slightly to fill completely.
Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the peppers.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese (if using), and bake another 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Choose firm peppers that can stand upright in the baking dish.
- Pre-cook rice for a fluffier texture inside the peppers.
- Don’t skip boiling the peppers—this ensures they soften enough without overbaking.
- Make ahead: Stuffed peppers can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze-friendly: They also freeze well. just bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes.
Variations to Try
One of the best parts about old fashioned stuffed bell peppers is their adaptability. Here are some creative variations:
Vegetarian stuffed peppers – Use black beans, lentils, or chickpeas instead of meat.
Low-carb stuffed peppers – Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
Cheesy stuffed peppers – Mix shredded cheese directly into the filling for extra creaminess.
Mediterranean style – Use ground lamb, feta cheese, and herbs like parsley and mint.
Mexican-inspired peppers – Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn, then top with salsa.
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Nutrition Facts
*Per serving (1 slice)
- Calories220 kcal
- Protein3 g
- Carbohydrates32 g
- Fat9 g
- Saturated Fat5 g
- Cholesterol35 mg
- Sodium180 mg
- Fiber2 g
- Sugar18 g
FAQ's on Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers
Q1. Can I use uncooked rice?
It’s best to use pre-cooked rice, but some recipes allow uncooked rice if you add extra liquid and bake longer.
Q2. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 2–3 months.
Q3. Can I make them in a slow cooker?
Yes! Stuff peppers as directed, place in a slow cooker, cover with tomato sauce, and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason why old fashioned stuffed bell peppers remain a beloved dish in so many households, they’re flavorful, nutritious, and versatile. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or put your own spin on it, these peppers are sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
👉 Have you tried making stuffed peppers before? Share your favorite variation in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more comforting classics, explore our TasteSpur recipe collection for ideas that bring warmth and flavor to your kitchen.
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