These Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers are a hearty and healthy meal, filled with a flavorful combination of rice, beans, vegetables, and cheese. This dish is perfect for a satisfying dinner or a meal prep option. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can mix and match your favorite veggies and grains to make it your own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Vegetarian & Healthy – Packed with plant-based protein and fiber!
✅ Customizable – Fill with your favorite grains, beans, and veggies.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for meal prep or a quick dinner!
✅ Flavorful & Satisfying – A filling meal with a savory filling.
Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Essential Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)
- 1 cup black beans (canned or cooked)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or vegan cheese)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Place the peppers in a baking dish, standing upright.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for 1 minute.
- Add the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Mix well and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through and the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the filling into each pepper, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Top each pepper with a generous amount of shredded cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Peppers
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Delicious Variations & Add-Ins
🌱 Vegetable Boost – Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
🌶️ Spicy Kick – Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy twist.
🥑 Creamy Touch – Top with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra creaminess.
🍚 Grain Swap – You can substitute quinoa with brown rice, farro, or even couscous for variety.
Nutritional Benefits
| Per Serving | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers | 400 | 15 | 50 | 15 |
🌾 Quinoa – A complete protein, providing all nine essential amino acids.
🌽 Corn – Rich in fiber and essential minerals.
🌶️ Bell Peppers – High in vitamin C, antioxidants, and low in calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overcooking the Peppers: Be sure to not overcook your peppers. They should still have a slight crunch to them after baking.
❌ Not Packing the Filling: Make sure to pack the filling tightly into the peppers to ensure they hold their shape and are filled with flavor.
❌ Using Raw Grains: Make sure your grains (quinoa, rice, etc.) are already cooked before stuffing them into the peppers.
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
🍽️ Pair With: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables.
🍞 Side Dishes: Serve with garlic bread or a simple side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale.
❄️ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🔥 Reheating Tip: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm. Add a little sprinkle of cheese when reheating for that fresh-baked feel.
FAQs About Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
❓ Can I use different grains?
Yes! You can use any grain like rice, farro, or couscous instead of quinoa.
❓ Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use gluten-free grains and cheese.
❓ Can I make these in advance?
Yes! You can stuff the peppers ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate them for up to 1 day. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
❓ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
Yes! You can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking them. Wrap them in foil and store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 40-50 minutes.
Final Thoughts: A Healthy & Flavorful Meal!
These Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers are a versatile and delicious meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for a meatless dinner or meal prep options for the week, these peppers will keep you full and satisfied. Enjoy them tonight!
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