Ever tried combining the nostalgic flavors of meatloaf with the fresh crunch of bell peppers? This Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers recipe creates the perfect marriage of two beloved comfort foods. Furthermore, these oven baked peppers transform ordinary weeknight dinners into something extraordinary. Additionally, this hearty dinner recipe delivers all the satisfaction of traditional meatloaf while adding nutritious vegetables to your plate. Most importantly, busy families will appreciate how this easy family recipe brings everyone together around the dinner table. Consequently, you’ll discover why this ground beef dinner has become a go-to favorite for millions of home cooks worldwide.
Ingredients
This stuffed pepper recipe requires fresh, quality ingredients that create layers of savory flavor. Moreover, each component works together to build the perfect comfort food dinner experience.
For the Peppers:
- 6 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange work best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Meatloaf Filling:
- 2 pounds ground beef (85/15 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Substitution Options:
- Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for lighter options
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly for dietary restrictions
- Dairy-free cheese alternatives maintain the cheesy oven meal experience
- Vegetable broth can substitute milk for lactose-free needs
Timing
This weeknight comfort food recipe requires strategic timing to achieve perfect results. Specifically, total preparation takes approximately 90 minutes, which is 25% faster than traditional meatloaf recipes.
| Phase | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 65 minutes |
| Resting Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 90 minutes |
Additionally, this timing allows you to prepare side dishes while the peppers bake. Therefore, dinner coordination becomes much more manageable for busy weeknights.
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, wash and dry six large bell peppers thoroughly. Then, carefully cut the tops off each pepper, removing about 1/2 inch from the top. Subsequently, remove all seeds and white membranes from inside each pepper. Finally, trim the bottom slightly if peppers don’t stand upright, but avoid cutting through completely.
Pro Tip: Choose peppers that stand straight and have thick walls for better structural integrity during baking.
Step 2: Create the Meatloaf Mixture
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat with one tablespoon of olive oil. Then, sauté diced onions for 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Next, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. After that, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooled onion mixture, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Subsequently, mix gently with your hands until just combined. However, avoid overmixing, which can result in tough texture.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
First, brush the outside of prepared peppers with remaining olive oil and season with salt. Then, divide the meat mixture evenly among the six peppers, packing gently but firmly. Next, place stuffed peppers in a baking dish with about 1/4 inch of water in the bottom. This easy family recipe technique prevents the peppers from drying out during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, then carefully remove the foil. Next, continue baking uncovered for 15 minutes until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
During the final 5 minutes, sprinkle the cheese mixture over each pepper to create the signature cheesy oven meal finish. Finally, return to oven until cheese melts and bubbles beautifully.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once finished baking, remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Then, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Subsequently, serve immediately while the cheese is still melted and the peppers are hot.
Nutritional Information
This ground beef dinner provides substantial nutrition while maintaining incredible flavor profiles. Moreover, each serving delivers a balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and essential nutrients.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 890mg |
| Vitamin C | 190% DV |
| Iron | 25% DV |
Additionally, bell peppers contribute significant amounts of vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants. Therefore, this recipe supports both comfort and nutrition goals simultaneously.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Transform this comfort food dinner into a lighter option with smart substitutions. First, use 93/7 lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce fat content by 40%. Next, replace half the breadcrumbs with finely chopped mushrooms for added nutrients and moisture.
Furthermore, consider these modifications:
- Use low-fat cheese to reduce calories by 25%
- Add finely diced zucchini to the meat mixture for extra vegetables
- Substitute cauliflower rice for breadcrumbs for keto-friendly versions
- Include quinoa for additional protein and fiber
These changes maintain the hearty dinner recipe satisfaction while supporting various dietary goals.
Serving Suggestions
This weeknight comfort food pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. First, consider serving with garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for ultimate comfort. Alternatively, a crisp Caesar salad provides refreshing contrast to the hearty peppers.
Moreover, these additional pairings work wonderfully:
- Roasted seasonal vegetables for colorful presentation
- Warm dinner rolls for soaking up delicious juices
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for nutritional balance
- Wild rice pilaf for sophisticated texture contrast
Additionally, leftover stuffed peppers make excellent lunch options when reheated properly. Therefore, consider making extra for convenient meal prep throughout the week.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Several common errors can impact the success of this stuffed pepper recipe. First, overcooking the peppers results in mushy texture that cannot support the filling properly. Therefore, monitor baking time carefully and test for doneness.
Additionally, avoid these frequent mistakes:
- Overpacking the meat mixture, which prevents even cooking
- Skipping the water in the baking dish, leading to dried-out peppers
- Using peppers that are too small for adequate filling
- Not preheating the oven properly, affecting cooking times
- Overmixing the meat, creating tough, dense texture
Furthermore, always check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to confirm food safety. Consequently, following these guidelines guarantees perfect results every time.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Proper storage maintains the quality of this oven baked peppers recipe for future enjoyment. First, cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and sogginess. Then, store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
For longer storage, these Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions:
- Oven: 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil
- Microwave: 2-3 minutes on medium power, checking frequently
- Air fryer: 350°F for 8-10 minutes for crispy exterior
Conclusion
This Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers recipe successfully combines beloved comfort food traditions with practical weeknight cooking solutions. Moreover, the recipe proves that hearty dinner recipes can be both satisfying and nutritious when crafted thoughtfully. Additionally, families will appreciate how this easy family recipe brings everyone together while providing excellent nutritional value.
The versatility of this cheesy oven meal makes it perfect for various occasions and dietary preferences. Furthermore, the make-ahead potential transforms busy weeknight dinners into stress-free experiences. Try this recipe tonight and discover why it’s becoming a favorite in kitchens everywhere. Share your cooking success stories in the comments below, and don’t forget to rate this recipe to help other home cooks find their new favorite dinner!
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed peppers completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from cold.
Q: What’s the best type of bell pepper to use?
A: Red, yellow, and orange peppers work best because they’re sweeter and hold their shape better during cooking. Green peppers can be used but may taste slightly bitter and soften more quickly.
Q: How do I know when the meat filling is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The meat should no longer be pink, and juices should run clear.
Q: Can I make this recipe without cheese?
A: Yes, simply omit the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives. The peppers will still be delicious and satisfying without the cheese topping.
Q: Why do my peppers fall over during baking?
A: Trim just a small slice from the bottom to help peppers stand upright, but don’t cut through completely. Choose peppers with flat bottoms, and use a baking dish that fits them snugly.
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