Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipes & Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound of ground beef (lean, 85% or higher)
– 1 cup of cooked quinoa (or rice)
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
– 1 small cup of Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prep the Bell Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion sautéing until they become translucent. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, quinoa, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon, fill each bell pepper with the beef mixture. Pack them tightly and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each filled pepper.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve: Once finished, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (per stuffed bell pepper):
– Calories: ~350
– Protein: 28g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 8g
– Sugars: 6g
Nutritional Highlights:
– High in Protein: The combination of ground beef, black beans, and quinoa ensures a robust protein content that is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
– Rich in Fiber: The addition of beans, corn, and bell peppers significantly boosts dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
– Comprehensive Vitamins: Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, while tomatoes bring in vitamin A, making this dish not just hearty but also beneficial for your immune system.
This Southwestern Stuffed Bell Pepper recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, offering both convenience and nutritional value. With its colorful presentation and robust flavors, it’s sure to please the whole family. Experiment with different spices or additional toppings to make it your own, and enjoy the endless possibilities that ground beef brings to the dinner table. Happy cooking!
