Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes
I love to whip up these Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers whenever I want a comforting meal that's packed with flavor. Each pepper is loaded with a delightful mixture of savory beef, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic spices that transform simple ingredients into a gourmet dish. The vibrant colors of the peppers always brighten my day, and the best part is that they're pretty easy to make. Whether it's a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these stuffed peppers never fail to impress.
When I first decided to make stuffed peppers, I knew I wanted to create something hearty and satisfying. After a few trials, I found that combining ground beef with sautéed mushrooms delivers a rich, umami flavor that stands out. Adding spices such as garlic and cumin enhances the overall taste and brings warmth to each bite.
Another tip I discovered is to bake the peppers at a higher temperature for the last few minutes. This not only helps them retain their shape but also creates a slight caramelization on the filling, giving it a delightful crust that adds textural contrast to the tender peppers.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory beef and mushrooms create a rich and satisfying filling
- Colorful peppers add a vibrant touch that is visually appealing
- Versatile dish that can be served as a main course or side
Perfecting Pepper Preparations
Selecting the right bell peppers is crucial for this dish. Opt for large, firm peppers that are free of blemishes. You can choose from green, red, yellow, or orange peppers, depending on your preference; however, red and yellow add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory filling beautifully. Before hollowing them out, gently slice off the tops to create a bowl for the filling.
When preparing the peppers, ensure you remove all the seeds and membranes, as they can contribute a bitter flavor. I recommend rinsing the hollowed peppers under cold water to remove any residual seeds. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps the peppers cook more evenly. Once prepared, set them aside to make room for the flavorful filling.
Filling Flavor Fundamentals
The beef and mushroom filling is the heart of this recipe, creating a savory contrast with the sweetness of the peppers. Using a combination of ground beef and diced mushrooms not only adds depth but also introduces a lovely umami flavor. For a lighter option, try substituting ground turkey or even plant-based protein, which can be just as flavorful with the right spices.
Be sure to cook the filling until the ground beef is no longer pink and the mushrooms are tender. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes on medium heat. Stirring frequently helps achieve an even cook while preventing the beef from burning. The addition of cumin and paprika infuses the mixture with warmth and complexity, so don't be shy with the spices.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for your Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers:
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Enjoy the vibrant and hearty ingredients in your dish!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers:
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.
Cook the Filling
In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the diced mushrooms and cook until soft. Stir in the ground beef, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until the beef is browned.
Combine and Fill
Once the beef is cooked, mix in the cooked rice. Fill each pepper generously with the beef mixture. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes for a golden top.
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, Enjoy!
Now you can savor your delicious beefy stuffed peppers!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture. These stuffed peppers also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep.
Storing and Freezing
If you have leftovers or want to prepare these stuffed peppers in advance, they store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply keep them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture. When you're ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
For long-term storage, consider freezing the stuffed peppers. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each pepper in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
These Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers are versatile and can be served alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also pair them with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful, well-rounded dining experience. If you wish to elevate the dish further, consider drizzling a homemade tomato sauce over the top before serving.
Feel free to experiment with toppings! A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of feta cheese, or a handful of arugula can add additional layers of flavor and texture. I often like to serve them with a zesty lime wedge for those who enjoy a citrus kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative.
→ How can I make these vegetarian?
Replace the beef with lentils or quinoa and add more vegetables such as zucchini or carrots.
→ Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day ahead. Just bake them when you're ready.
→ What should I serve with stuffed peppers?
They pair well with a simple salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
I love to whip up these Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers whenever I want a comforting meal that's packed with flavor. Each pepper is loaded with a delightful mixture of savory beef, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic spices that transform simple ingredients into a gourmet dish. The vibrant colors of the peppers always brighten my day, and the best part is that they're pretty easy to make. Whether it's a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these stuffed peppers never fail to impress.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.
In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the diced mushrooms and cook until soft. Stir in the ground beef, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until the beef is browned.
Once the beef is cooked, mix in the cooked rice. Fill each pepper generously with the beef mixture. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes for a golden top.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture. These stuffed peppers also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 22g