Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

Super easy spinach ricotta Stuffed Peppers are full cheesy goodness. They are perfect for meatless Monday or dinner with vegetarian friends! This Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it ideal for various occasions such as family dinners, potlucks, or simply to enjoy a healthy meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 45 minutes from prep to plate, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan creates a rich, cheesy filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the filling by adding different vegetables or grains like quinoa or rice.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with leafy greens and protein-rich cheese, this dish is both healthy and filling.
• Great for Meal Prep: These stuffed peppers keep well in the fridge, making them an excellent option for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most of your cooking experience, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s a brief overview of what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking pan
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking pan: Perfect for roasting the stuffed peppers along with tomatoes, allowing even cooking.
• Skillet: Essential for sautéing onions and spinach to bring out their flavors before mixing.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the ricotta and Parmesan with the sautéed veggies.

Ingredients

Super easy spinach ricotta Stuffed Peppers are full cheesy goodness. They are perfect for meatless Monday or dinner with vegetarian friends!

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• ¾ cup diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 cups baby spinach (chopped – about 6 oz)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Peppers

• 2 yellow bell peppers (cut in half, seeds removed)

For Topping

• 1 ½ cups ricotta (part-skim)
• 6 tablespoons parmesan cheese (grated)
• 10 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes
• Additional parmesan cheese (grated)
• Fresh flat parsley or basil

How to Make Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your stuffed peppers cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Place the tomatoes in a 9×13 pan. Drizzle with ½ tablespoon of vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the remaining 1½ tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
1. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent and soft.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Mix Filling Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Add in the sautéed onion, garlic, and spinach mixture.
3. Stir until well mixed.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

1. Fill each half of the yellow bell peppers generously with the ricotta-spinach mixture.
2. Sprinkle more grated Parmesan cheese on top for additional flavor.
3. Arrange the stuffed peppers in the pan alongside the seasoned tomatoes.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are lightly browned on top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your stuffed bell peppers with more Parmesan cheese as well as fresh parsley or basil before serving over rice, orzo, or quinoa.

Enjoy this delicious Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe that brings together flavors in a beautiful way!

How to Serve Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

Stuffed bell peppers are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Over a Bed of Grains

• Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa pairs well with the rich flavors of stuffed peppers.
• Orzo: This pasta adds a delightful texture and can soak up any extra juices.
• Rice: A classic choice, rice complements the stuffed peppers perfectly.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss together fresh greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caprese Salad: The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
• Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers provide a cool crunch that balances the warm peppers.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Parmesan: Sprinkling more Parmesan cheese on top just before serving adds richness.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta offers a tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the peppers.

How to Perfect Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

To ensure your stuffed bell pepper recipe turns out amazing every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your filling before stuffing to ensure it’s well-seasoned; add salt or pepper as needed.
• Cook Peppers Slightly First: Blanching or roasting the peppers briefly can improve their texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overstuff: Fill each pepper just enough to allow for cooking without spilling over.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try different grains or cheeses for unique flavor profiles tailored to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

Pair your stuffed bell peppers with these delicious side dishes that complement their flavors wonderfully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up juices from the peppers.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies, roasted until caramelized, adds color and nutrients to your meal.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a vibrant green addition that balances the richness of the stuffed peppers.
4. Corn Salad: Sweet corn mixed with diced bell peppers creates a refreshing side that’s easy to prepare.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty companion to stuffed peppers.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your stuffed bell peppers, keep these common mistakes in mind to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Using the wrong type of cheese: Always choose cheeses that melt well, like ricotta or mozzarella. Avoid hard cheeses that may not blend properly.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Sauté your onions and spinach just until they are soft. Overcooking can lead to a mushy filling.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to season your filling with salt and pepper. Tasting as you go will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Not preheating the oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden top.
• Ignoring the cooking time: Keep an eye on your stuffed peppers as they bake. Each oven varies, so check for doneness around the 25-minute mark.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

• Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place one pepper on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth to a skillet and cover with a lid. Heat on medium-low until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to the Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe.

Can I use other vegetables in my stuffed bell peppers?

Yes, feel free to add ingredients like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to customize your filling according to your taste.

How do I make a Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe vegan?

For a vegan version, replace ricotta with tofu or cashew cream and skip the Parmesan cheese or use vegan alternatives.

What can I serve with Stuffed Bell Peppers?

Stuffed bell peppers pair well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when my stuffed bell peppers are done?

Your stuffed peppers should be tender and lightly browned on top. A fork should easily pierce through them.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe is versatile and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to gatherings with friends. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on what you have available. Give it a try today!