Looking for a simple yet satisfying dinner solution? This Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is your answer! This recipe transforms ordinary bell peppers into a delicious and healthy meal, packed with flavor and requiring minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the peppers with a rich, savory filling that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
What is Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful twist on the classic stuffed pepper recipe. Instead of baking them in the oven, they’re cooked low and slow in a slow cooker. This method allows the bell peppers to become incredibly tender and the filling to meld together beautifully, creating a flavorful and comforting one-pot meal.
The filling typically consists of ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage), rice, vegetables, and seasonings simmered in a tomato-based sauce. Cooking in a slow cooker not only saves time but also deepens the flavors, making each bite a culinary adventure. Get ready to enjoy a fuss-free, delicious dinner that the whole family will love! Why not try this easy and delicious recipe tonight?
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers:
6 Bell Peppers: Choose a variety of colors (red, yellow, orange, green) for visual appeal. Wash them thoroughly and cut off the tops, removing the seeds and membranes.
1 pound Ground Meat: Ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage work well. Brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker to reduce grease and enhance flavor.
1 cup Cooked Rice: Use your favorite kind of rice – white, brown, or wild rice. Day-old rice is perfect for this recipe.
1 (14.5 ounce) can Diced Tomatoes: Undrained, these add moisture and flavor to the filling.
1 (8 ounce) can Tomato Sauce: Provides a rich tomato base for the sauce.
1 medium Onion: Diced, adds flavor and texture.
1 clove Garlic: Minced, for aromatics.
1 cup Corn (frozen or canned): Adds sweetness and texture.
1 cup Black Beans (canned, rinsed and drained): Adds protein and fiber. Optional
1 teaspoon dried Oregano: Adds a classic Italian flavor.
1 teaspoon Paprika: Adds color and a smoky flavor.
1/2 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to taste.
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adjust to taste.
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Or your favorite cheese, for topping. Optional
How to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers:
This Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is wonderfully easy and incredibly satisfying. This dish is a breeze to prepare and requires only about 20 minutes hands-on time.
The slow cooker gently cooks the peppers and filling to perfection, resulting in tender peppers bursting with flavor. The simple yet delicious combination of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and spices creates a rich and comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Bell Peppers: Wash the bell peppers and cut off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the browned meat mixture, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, corn, black beans (optional), oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Stuff the Bell Peppers: Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture. Pack the filling in firmly.
Place in Slow Cooker: Stand the stuffed bell peppers upright in the slow cooker. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly so they sit flat.
Add Liquid: Pour about 1/2 cup of water or beef broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. This will help prevent the peppers from drying out.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the peppers are tender.
Add Cheese (Optional): During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese) over the top of each pepper, if desired.
Serve: Carefully remove the stuffed bell peppers from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe:
This Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe will quickly become a family favorite because of its convenience and incredible flavor. The highlight of this dish is undoubtedly the tender, flavorful bell peppers filled with a hearty and savory mixture. Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also a budget-friendly alternative to ordering takeout or dining out. By using affordable ingredients such as ground meat, rice, and canned tomatoes, you can create a satisfying meal that feeds the whole family.
Topping it all off, the customizable nature of this recipe allows you to add your own twist with various cheeses, herbs, and spices, making each serving uniquely delicious. If you enjoy the classic taste of stuffed peppers, you might also want to try a lighter version using quinoa or a vegetarian option with lentils and mushrooms. Why not give this easy, affordable, and delicious slow cooker recipe a try and add it to your weekly meal rotation.
What to Serve Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers With:
To complement your Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers, consider serving them with a fresh side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast. Cornbread is also a great addition, offering a slightly sweet and crumbly texture that pairs well with the savory filling. For a lighter option, a simple side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus can provide a healthy and flavorful accompaniment.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing: Allow the cooked stuffed bell peppers to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed bell peppers. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated stuffed bell peppers, you can microwave them for a few minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating frozen stuffed bell peppers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the microwave or oven methods.
Final Thoughts:
This Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is a weeknight dinner champion! It’s easy, flavorful, and customizable, making it a perfect choice for busy families. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender bell peppers and a hearty filling that can be tailored to your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a healthy dish, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try and make it your own!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers FAQs:
Q: Can I use different types of meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground beef, ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even ground chicken can be used. Mix and match for different flavor profiles!
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, celery, or carrots to the filling mixture.
Q: What if I don’t have cooked rice on hand?
A: You can use a pre-cooked rice pouch or cook rice quickly in a rice cooker or on the stovetop. Make sure to allow it to cool slightly before mixing it into the filling.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply replace the ground meat with a combination of lentils, quinoa, and diced vegetables.
Q: How do I prevent the peppers from getting soggy?
A: Avoid overfilling the slow cooker with liquid. Adding only about 1/2 cup of water or broth to the bottom is usually sufficient.
Q: Can I prepare the peppers ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can stuff the peppers and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. This makes meal prep even easier!
Q: What if I don’t have tomato sauce?
A: You can substitute with an equal amount of crushed tomatoes or tomato puree.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
Q: How do I know when the peppers are done?
A: The peppers are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker.