Stuffed bell peppers are not just a meal; they’re a comforting embrace of flavors in a colorful, edible package. Whenever I prepare them, the kitchen fills with a medley of aromas that instantly transports me back to family gatherings where good food and laughter were in abundance. This recipe not only showcases the vibrant colors of bell peppers but also combines hearty ingredients like ground beef, shrimp, and cheese into a delightful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Why you’ll love this dish

When it comes to weeknight dinners, these stuffed bell peppers steal the show. They’re budget-friendly, easy to customize, and make for a nutritious meal that even picky eaters love. Imagine a busy Thursday evening: your kids are home from school, the last thing you want is stress, and here lies a recipe that can be made in one pan, offering a hearty meal in about an hour. Not only are they packed with protein, but you can also sneak in extra vegetables!

“These stuffed peppers became an instant family favorite! They’re delicious, filling, and so colorful on the plate. Plus, my kids can’t get enough of the cheese!” – Sarah T., satisfied cook

The cooking process explained

Creating stuffed bell peppers is a straightforward process that unfolds in a series of simple steps. You’ll be sautéing aromatics, mixing in delicious fillings, stuffing those lovely peppers, and finally, baking them to perfection. This recipe harmonizes flavors and textures to create a dish that feels gourmet without much fuss.

To give you a preview, you’ll start by browning the ground beef, then mixing in rice and spices before loading up the peppers. Once baked, they emerge golden and bubbling, ready to be devoured!

Gather these items

To make your delicious stuffed bell peppers, here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green), tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Feel free to mix and match the types of cheese or even substitute the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based option if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian alternative.