Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that combines the savory goodness of ground beef, Spanish-flavored Rice-A-Roni, and melted cheese, all encased in tender green peppers. This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium green peppers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 (6 7/8 ounce) box of Rice-a-Roni mix, Spanish flavor
- 1 (16 ounces) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can tomatoes (for use in making the rice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or 1 cup American cheese
Directions:
- Prepare the Peppers: Remove tops and seeds from peppers; parboil peppers for 5 minutes and drain.
- Cook the Beef and Onion: Place peppers in a baking dish. Combine ground beef and onion and cook together until done. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Rice Mixture: Prepare Rice-A-Roni according to package directions. When rice is done, combine it with the beef and onion. Fill peppers with rice mixture.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Mix the 1 teaspoon sugar with the tomato sauce and pour this AROUND the peppers (not over).
- Bake the Stuffed Peppers: Cover the baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes and then uncover and top with the shredded cheese.
- Melt the Cheese: Bake uncovered for about 5 minutes more to melt the cheese. Serve with the tomato sauce.
Tips:
- For a variation, you can use different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
- Consider adding diced bell peppers or other vegetables to the ground beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Ensure the peppers are thoroughly cooked but still firm for the best texture.
Conclusion:
These stuffed bell peppers are a delightful dish that brings together the goodness of meat, rice, and vegetables in a flavorful ensemble. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the comforting flavors and textures of this classic recipe!
- Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe instead of ground beef? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a meat alternative like plant-based ground meat. Each option will bring its own unique flavor profile to the dish, so feel free to experiment and find the one that suits your taste preferences best.
- I don’t have access to Rice-a-Roni mix. Can I use plain rice instead? Yes, you can substitute plain rice for the Rice-a-Roni mix in this recipe. Simply cook the rice according to package instructions and add your own seasonings to mimic the Spanish flavor. You can incorporate ingredients like garlic powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder to achieve a similar taste profile. Adjust the seasonings to your liking and mix the cooked rice with the beef and onion as directed in the recipe.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time and freeze it for later? Stuffed bell peppers can be prepared ahead of time and frozen for future meals. Once you have assembled the stuffed peppers and topped them with cheese, allow them to cool completely. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the peppers overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, typically about 30-40 minutes. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they are thoroughly heated before serving.
- Are there any vegetarian or vegan alternatives to this recipe? Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit vegetarian or vegan diets by making a few simple substitutions. Instead of ground beef, you can use cooked lentils, quinoa, or a meat alternative such as crumbled tofu or tempeh. Sautee the vegetables and protein of your choice together with onions and seasonings until they are well combined. For the rice mixture, opt for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly rice pilaf mix or simply use plain cooked rice seasoned with vegetable broth, herbs, and spices. Ensure that any cheese used for topping is plant-based and dairy-free. By making these substitutions, you can create a delicious vegetarian or vegan version of stuffed bell peppers that is both nutritious and flavorful.