Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers are a perfect dish for families or anyone looking for a hearty meal with minimal effort. They are healthy, colorful, and full of flavor. This recipe makes great use of a slow cooker, allowing you to prepare the meal and let it cook while you go about your day. Plus, you can easily customize the stuffing to fit your taste or dietary needs.
How to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients:
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the peppers are tender and the meat is cooked through.
- If desired, top with shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Serve the stuffed bell peppers warm, straight from the slow cooker. They pair well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You can also offer extra toppings, like sour cream or fresh herbs, for added flavor.
How to Store Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
You can store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. If you want to freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
- You can use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like corn, black beans, or zucchini to the stuffing mix.
- If you like a little spice, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Variation
You can switch up the meat. Use vegetarian ground meat or lentils for a plant-based version. Additionally, try different cheese types, like feta or mozzarella, to change the flavor.
FAQs
Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers the night before and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.
Can I use frozen bell peppers?
Yes, frozen bell peppers can be used, but they may cook a bit faster. Adjust your cooking time as necessary.
What should I do if my stuffed peppers fall over in the slow cooker?
You can use a paper towel under the peppers to create a stable base, or place them in a way that they support each other.
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A hearty and healthy dish perfect for families, packed with flavor and easily customizable.
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 360-480 minutes or on high for 180-240 minutes until the peppers are tender and the meat is cooked through.
- If desired, top with shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Serve with a green salad or crusty bread. Add toppings like sour cream or fresh herbs for extra flavor. Store leftovers properly in the refrigerator or freezer.