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Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 18 reviews

A comforting and easy recipe for Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers featuring ground meat, rice, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for a hands-off family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Dairy

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes inside. Set the hollowed peppers aside for stuffing.
  2. Cook the Meat Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is fully cooked and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
  3. Combine Filling Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, mix the cooked ground meat, cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will be the stuffing for the peppers.
  4. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each prepared bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, packing it in gently to fill the cavity completely. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the slow cooker, fitting them snugly so they stay upright during cooking.
  5. Add Water and Cook: Pour a small amount of water (about 1/4 cup) into the bottom of the slow cooker to create steam that helps soften the peppers. Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot throughout.
  6. Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before the cooking time ends, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper. Replace the lid and allow the cheese to melt fully, creating a gooey, delicious topping.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the peppers from the slow cooker. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm as a hearty main course.

Notes

  • You can use ground beef or turkey based on your preference or dietary restrictions.
  • Brown rice can be used instead of white rice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
  • Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes well to avoid excess liquid in the slow cooker.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker stuffed peppers, stuffed bell peppers, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, slow cooker dinner, family meals

Find it online: https://dinewithlily.com/slow-cooker-stuffed-bell-peppers-recipe/