Save to Pinterest A budget-friendly twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, these bell peppers are filled with savory beef and tomato sauce, topped with melty cheese, and baked to perfection. Perfect for a satisfying, wallet-friendly family dinner.
I enjoy making these stuffed bell peppers because they bring together rich flavors in an easy and satisfying dish my family always looks forward to.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers: 4 large (any color), tops cut off, seeds removed
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g), may substitute ground turkey or chicken
- Tomato sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp, gluten-free if needed
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (115 g)
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare peppers:
- Arrange the bell peppers upright in a baking dish. If needed, slice a thin layer off the bottom so they stand upright.
- Cook beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add sauce and seasonings:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 4-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Fill peppers:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each bell pepper.
- Bake covered:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Add cheese and bake:
- Remove foil, top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for another 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save to Pinterest These stuffed peppers are always a hit at our family dinners, bringing everyone together to enjoy a hearty meal.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken. Add cooked rice or quinoa to the filling for extra bulk. Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Large skillet, Baking dish, Knife and cutting board, Measuring spoons and cups, Aluminum foil.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and soy (Worcestershire sauce check label for gluten/soy content). For gluten-free, ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save to Pinterest This recipe combines ease and flavor perfectly, making dinner time a breeze.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I ensure the peppers stand upright during baking?
Trim a thin layer off the pepper bottoms so they sit flat in the baking dish for even cooking.
- → What can I add for extra bulk in the filling?
Incorporating cooked rice or quinoa into the beef mixture adds texture and volume.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce to keep the dish gluten-free; always check labels for allergens.
- → How long do leftovers stay fresh?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days, reheating thoroughly before serving.