Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Kefta

Stuffed bell peppers with rice and kefta are a savory, hearty dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. Filled with a flavorful blend of ground beef, rice, and aromatic spices like cumin and paprika, these stuffed peppers are a delicious and satisfying meal. The mixture is perfectly seasoned and simmered in a savory beef broth, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Topped off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, these stuffed peppers make an impressive dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed bell pepper recipe combines a classic and comforting dish with a delicious twist. The combination of rice, ground beef, and spices creates a rich, flavorful filling, while the bell peppers add a slight sweetness that balances the savory elements. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the seasonings to your taste, and it’s simple enough to make for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for special occasions. The beauty of this dish lies in how easily it comes together, with minimal prep and a short baking time. Plus, the stuffed peppers are filling, making them a great option for feeding a family or a crowd.

Ingredients

• Large bell peppers
• Rice
• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Diced tomatoes
• Beef broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with a combination of black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese stuffed peppers: Top the stuffed peppers with shredded cheese before baking for an extra layer of richness.
• Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicier kick.
• Add more veggies: Mix in finely chopped zucchini, carrots, or spinach to the beef and rice mixture for more vegetables.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the bell peppers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the onion and garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the ground beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes to let the spices infuse into the beef.

Step 4: Add rice and liquids

Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Stuff the peppers

Stuff each bell pepper with the rice and beef mixture, packing it tightly.

Step 6: Bake the stuffed peppers

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the peppers to get tender and the filling to set.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Even cooking: When preparing the bell peppers, make sure to slice off a small amount from the bottom if they’re too wobbly, ensuring they stand upright while baking.
• Pre-cooked rice: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice to speed up the process.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them as directed when ready to serve.

How to Serve

Stuffed bell peppers with rice and kefta make a delicious main dish and can be served with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a side of garlic bread. For an added touch, drizzle some yogurt or tzatziki sauce over the peppers before serving for extra creaminess.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Freezing

Stuffed peppers can be frozen for longer storage. Once fully prepared and cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the stuffed peppers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until they are warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or lamb. For a vegetarian option, use a mix of beans, lentils, or quinoa.

2. Can I make this recipe without rice?

Yes, you can omit the rice and use other grains like quinoa or couscous. You could also use cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, incorporate chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the beef mixture or drizzle the peppers with hot sauce before serving.

4. Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers up to the point of baking. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed when ready to serve.

5. Can I add cheese to these stuffed peppers?

Yes! You can add shredded cheese on top of the stuffed peppers during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy topping.

6. How do I know when the peppers are done baking?

The peppers should be tender but not falling apart. The filling should be hot, and the rice should be fully cooked.

7. Can I use different types of bell peppers?

Absolutely! You can use any color of bell pepper – red, yellow, orange, or green – to add variety and flavor.

8. How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use plant-based meat, such as lentils or black beans, and substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth to make this recipe vegan.

9. Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Yes, stuffed peppers can be frozen before or after baking. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly for optimal freshness.

10. What can I serve with stuffed bell peppers?

Stuffed bell peppers pair well with a simple green salad, roasted potatoes, or a side of hummus and pita bread.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell peppers with rice and kefta offer a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a savory blend of beef, spices, and rice, all encased in a tender bell pepper, this dish is hearty, comforting, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare and customize, it’s a great option for a family dinner or meal prep. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a perfect make-ahead recipe!

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