Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious and convenient meal that is perfect for busy families or anyone who loves hearty, nutritious food. This recipe combines the flavors of seasoned ground meat, rice, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped up in a vibrant bell pepper. With the use of a slow cooker, these stuffed peppers become incredibly tender while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully throughout the cooking process. Prepare to enjoy a comforting dish that’s both simple to make and satisfying to eat!
Why Make This Recipe
There are several compelling reasons to try Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers:
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of meat, rice, and spices creates a savory filling that will warm your soul.
- Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and protein, these peppers provide a balanced meal that appeals to health-conscious eaters.
- Effortless Cooking: Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your meal cooks.
- Versatile: You can customize the filling with any meat or vegetables you have on hand, making it a flexible dish for various diets.
How to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Follow this easy step-by-step guide to make your very own Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers:
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. This will create the perfect pocket for your filling.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Stuff the Peppers: Generously fill each bell pepper with the meat mixture, packing it down gently.
- Arrange in Slow Cooker: Place the stuffed peppers upright in the slow cooker. Pour a small amount of water into the bottom to help steam the peppers as they cook.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is cooked through and the peppers are tender.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If you like, sprinkle cheese on top of the stuffed peppers during the last 30 minutes of cooking to melt.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the stuffed peppers warm and enjoy this hearty dish!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Serve your Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers warm from the cooker. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a bright touch. You can pair them with a side salad or crusty bread to make a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
To store leftovers, allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality meat will enhance the flavors.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to incorporate any vegetables, beans, or grains you have on hand.
- Don’t Overstuff: Leave some space at the top of the peppers to allow for the filling to expand as it cooks.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with black beans or lentils and use quinoa instead of rice.
- Different Spices: Experiment with different spices like Italian seasoning or taco seasoning for varied flavors.
- Cheesy Peppers: Add cream cheese or feta cheese to the filling for extra creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bell peppers?
Yes! If using frozen bell peppers, you may want to adjust the cooking time as they may require longer to cook.
Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop?
While this recipe is best in a slow cooker, you could cook the stuffed peppers in a pot with a lid on the stovetop; just be sure to keep an eye on the water level.
How do I know when the peppers are done?
The peppers should be tender and the meat filling should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for beef and 165°F for poultry.
Enjoy your cooking and the delightful taste of these Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers!
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients
Bell Peppers
- 4 pieces bell peppers Cut the tops off and remove seeds.
Filling
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 piece onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Add during last 30 minutes of cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Generously fill each bell pepper with the meat mixture, packing it down gently.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in the slow cooker. Pour a small amount of water into the bottom to help steam the peppers.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is cooked through and the peppers are tender.
- If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of the stuffed peppers during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Once cooked, serve the stuffed peppers warm and enjoy.
