Crockpot Stuffed Bell Peppers

Looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea? These Crockpot Stuffed Bell Peppers are packed with flavor and sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Shredded cheese, for topping

Instructions:

• Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
• Brown the ground beef in a skillet with the diced onion.
• In a bowl, mix together the cooked rice, browned ground beef, tomato sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture and place them in the crockpot.
• Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the peppers are tender.
• Top with shredded cheese before serving.

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.

• Q: Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

A: Absolutely! Quinoa is a great alternative to rice and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.

• Q: Can I use different colored bell peppers?

A: Yes, feel free to use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a colorful twist.

• Q: How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Simply omit the ground beef and add in more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian option.

• Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed bell peppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Helpful tips:

• For added flavor, mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the stuffing mixture.
• To make it spicy, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for a creamy finish.
• If you prefer a smokier taste, use smoked paprika in place of regular paprika.
• Feel free to add in some diced vegetables like carrots or celery to the stuffing mixture for extra nutrients.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the ground beef and onion until they are nicely browned to enhance the flavor of the filling.
• Season the stuffing mixture generously with salt and pepper to ensure it is well seasoned.
• Make sure to pack the stuffing tightly into the bell peppers to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
• If the peppers are not standing upright in the crockpot, slice a thin layer off the bottom to create a flat surface.
• Let the stuffed bell peppers rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.