Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a classic comfort food that combines vibrant, sweet bell peppers with a savory ground beef filling. This dish is not only easy to make but also highly nutritious, offering a complete meal in a single bite. In this blog post, we'll guide you through a simple recipe to create delicious ground beef stuffed peppers and explore how to round out your meal with perfect pairings.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Peppers:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.

2. Cook the Filling:

   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
   • Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
   • Stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until well combined and heated through.

3. Stuff the Peppers:

   • Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, packing them tightly.
   • Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.

4. 

   Bake the Peppers:

   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

Ground beef stuffed peppers are a balanced meal rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The bell peppers provide a good dose of vitamins A and C, while the ground beef contributes protein and iron. The rice adds carbohydrates for energy, making this dish satisfying and filling.

To complement the flavors of stuffed peppers, consider pairing them with a simple side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. A crisp Caesar salad would also provide a nice contrast. For those who enjoy a bit of indulgence, garlic bread or a crusty baguette can be an excellent addition.

As for beverages, stuffed peppers pair well with a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a refreshing iced tea. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime can cleanse the palate and enhance the meal experience.

Enjoy creating and savoring this delicious dish. Its vibrant flavors, ease of preparation, and nutritional benefits make it a wonderful addition to any meal plan.