Stuffed Bell Pepper Meatloaf

Craving a hearty and flavorful meal? This Stuffed Bell Pepper Meatloaf combines the comforting essence of meatloaf with the vibrant flavors of stuffed peppers. Each bell pepper is filled with a savory meat mixture, topped with melted cheese, and baked to perfection. It’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

🕒 Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

• Servings: 4 servings

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 onion, finely diced

• 2 bell peppers, halved and seeds removed

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Meat Mixture: In a bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Stuff Peppers: Fill each bell pepper half with the meat mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.

4. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Spoon tomato sauce over each stuffed pepper and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

5. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.

🍽️ Serving Tips

• Pair with Sides: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

• Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added color and flavor.

• Meal Prep: These stuffed peppers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

🔄 Variations

• Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for heat.

• Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or quinoa in place of ground beef for a plant-based alternative.

• Slow Cooker: Prepare the stuffed peppers as directed, then place them in a slow cooker with a bit of tomato sauce and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

• Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap each stuffed pepper with a slice of bacon before baking for added flavor and crispiness.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

   • Yes, ground turkey is a lean alternative and works well in this recipe.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

   • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

3. Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

   • Yes, assemble the peppers and freeze them before baking. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

4. What other vegetables can I add to the meat mixture?

   • Diced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.

5. How do I prevent the peppers from becoming too soft?

   • Blanch the pepper halves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before stuffing to maintain their structure.

6. Can I use instant rice?

   • Yes, instant rice can be used; just ensure it’s cooked before mixing with the meat.

7. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

   • Absolutely! These stuffed peppers store well and can be reheated for a quick meal.

8. Can I add cheese inside the meat mixture?

   • Yes, incorporating cheese into the meat mixture adds extra flavor and moisture.

9. How do I know when the meat is fully cooked?

   • Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

10. Can I use other types of peppers?

    • Yes, poblano or Anaheim peppers can be used for a different flavor profile.

11. How can I make this dish spicier?

    • Add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or sprinkle chili flakes on top.

12. Can I use brown rice instead of white?

    • Yes, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option.

13. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

    • Yes, substitute the ground beef with lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian option.

14. Can I bake these peppers in a muffin tin?

    • Yes, using a muffin tin can create individual servings and reduce cooking time.

15. How can I add more flavor to the tomato sauce?

    • Season the tomato sauce with herbs like basil, oregano, or a splash of balsamic vinegar.

16. Can I use a different type of cheese?

    • Yes, cheddar, gouda, or provolone are great alternatives.

17. How do I store leftovers?

    • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.