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To create the ultimate stuffed bell peppers, it’s essential to understand the role and benefits of each ingredient involved. Each component contributes to the overall flavor, texture, and nutritional profile of the dish. Here’s a closer look at the individual ingredients that make this recipe shine:

Ultimate Stuffed Bell Peppers

Discover the delicious world of ultimate stuffed bell peppers, a vibrant dish packed with flavors and nutrients that caters to everyone, from vegetarians to meat lovers. This versatile recipe allows for endless customization, making it perfect for any occasion. Learn about the essential ingredients like colorful bell peppers, quinoa or rice, black beans, and spices that create a satisfying filling. With easy step-by-step instructions, you'll impress your family and friends while enjoying a meal that's both nutritious and visually stunning. Perfect for meal prep, these stuffed peppers promise a healthy and delicious dining experience any day of the week. Get inspired to make this colorful dish a regular in your kitchen!

Ingredients
  

4 large bell peppers (any color)

1 cup quinoa (or rice of choice), rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth or water

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

1 small red onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Peppers:

    - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

      - Carefully slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set them aside.

        Cook the Quinoa:

          - In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil.

            - Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

              Make the Filling:

                - In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

                  - Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cooked quinoa, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat all the ingredients through.

                    Stuff the Peppers:

                      - Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese into the filling mixture.

                        - Carefully fill each bell pepper with the filling, packing it tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.

                          Bake:

                            - Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

                              - After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each pepper. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                                Serve:

                                  - Once done, remove from the oven and let the peppers cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

                                    - Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added zesty kick!

                                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings