Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Kefta

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that brings together a flavorful blend of ingredients, making for a wholesome and satisfying meal. This version, stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and aromatic spices like cumin and paprika, is a true crowd-pleaser. The juicy bell peppers serve as the perfect vessel for the delicious kefta filling, offering both color and nutrition to the dish. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, these stuffed peppers with rice and kefta are sure to impress with their bold flavors and satisfying texture.

What makes this recipe so appealing is the combination of familiar comfort foods with a slight twist. The addition of beef broth and canned tomatoes ensures that the rice stays moist and flavorful while cooking, resulting in a tender, aromatic filling. Baking the peppers creates a slight caramelization on the edges, enhancing the natural sweetness of the peppers. Topped with fresh parsley for garnish, these stuffed bell peppers are a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed bell peppers with rice and kefta are the ultimate comfort food with a Middle Eastern flair. The ground beef is seasoned with cumin and paprika, giving it a rich, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bell peppers. The rice adds a satisfying texture while absorbing the savory juices from the beef and tomatoes. It’s a complete, well-balanced meal in one dish, offering a delicious mix of protein, vegetables, and carbs. Plus, the recipe is simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

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

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian or vegan version.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the stuffed peppers during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra kick.
• Different Vegetables: You can add other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for added texture and nutrition.
• Brown Rice: Substitute white rice for brown rice for a heartier, whole-grain option, though you may need to adjust the cooking time.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Peppers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set 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. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Add Spices

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat as it browns. Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom.

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the rice, canned diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Check occasionally to make sure the mixture doesn’t dry out. If necessary, add a little more broth or water.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the rice and beef mixture. Press down gently to pack the filling in.

Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Peppers

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the tops to become slightly browned and the peppers to soften.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the peppers are done, remove them from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Peppers: Choose peppers that are large and have thick walls to hold the stuffing well. Red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter, while green peppers have a slightly more bitter flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the peppers when baking. You want them tender but not mushy, so check for doneness after 30 minutes and keep an eye on them.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder filling, reduce the amount of cumin and paprika.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes if baking from cold.

How to Serve

Stuffed bell peppers with rice and kefta make a delicious, well-rounded meal on their own. However, they can also be served with a side salad, like a simple Greek salad with cucumber, olives, and feta. A dollop of yogurt or tzatziki on the side will add a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, flavorful peppers. For an even heartier meal, pair them with some crusty bread or pita on the side to soak up the delicious juices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for a few minutes or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze the stuffed peppers before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. To bake from frozen, simply place the peppers in the oven, covered, for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes. If freezing after baking, wrap the leftovers tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat stuffed peppers, place them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per pepper or bake them in the oven for 10-15 minutes, covered, to retain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used in this recipe, but it may require a longer cooking time, so be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.

2. Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, lamb, or chicken would all work well in place of beef. Choose a meat that you prefer or have on hand.

3. Can I make these stuffed peppers vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute like soy crumbles.

4. Can I add cheese to the filling?

Yes, you can mix in shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) into the rice and beef mixture for extra richness, or sprinkle cheese on top before baking.

5. How do I prevent the peppers from getting too soggy?

Ensure the peppers are not overcooked when baking, as they can become mushy. You want them tender but still firm enough to hold their shape.

6. Can I prepare the peppers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the peppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them the next day as directed.

7. Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked rice?

If you use cooked rice, the filling will be more moist, and you should reduce the amount of liquid added to the filling. Simmer the beef mixture for a shorter time, just to combine.

8. Can I use canned tomatoes with seasoning?

Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes with seasoning for added flavor. Just be mindful of the additional salt or spices.

9. Can I bake these stuffed peppers in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook stuffed peppers in a slow cooker. Layer them in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for about 4-5 hours.

10. How can I make these peppers spicier?

To add more heat, incorporate chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce into the filling.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell peppers with rice and kefta are a versatile and flavorful dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of savory ground beef, rice, and spices stuffed into tender bell peppers is simply irresistible. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with a side, these stuffed peppers will surely become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

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