Ground Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ground pork stuffed bell peppers are one of those heartwarming meals that can transform a simple weeknight dinner into something special. I remember the first time I made them – my kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of sautéed garlic and onions blending seamlessly with seasoned ground pork. This dish brings together colorful bell peppers with a savory filling that not only satisfies hunger but also pleases the eyes. It’s perfect for families, gatherings, or even as a fun cooking project with kids. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your recipe arsenal!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Ground pork stuffed bell peppers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They’re a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner, and the combination of flavors will leave everyone wanting more. This dish ticks all the boxes: it’s budget-friendly, packed with protein and veggies, and can easily be made ahead of time for meal prep. You can also customize the filling to suit your family’s tastes!

“These stuffed peppers are a hit! My kids love them, and I can sneak in some extra veggies without them noticing!” – Jane, Home Cook

Step-by-Step Overview

Making ground pork stuffed bell peppers is a straightforward process that takes less than an hour from start to finish. You’ll start by prepping your bell peppers and filling them with a flavorful mixture of cooked ground pork, rice, and diced tomatoes. After a quick bake, you can add cheese for that extra indulgence before serving. Let’s go through the ingredients to gather what you’ll need.

What You’ll Need

• 4 bell peppers
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cheese for topping (optional)

Feel free to swap in different types of meat or rice based on what you have available. Ground turkey or beef works well, and brown rice could add a nutty flavor!

Directions to Follow

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and gently remove the seeds.
3. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until they’re translucent.
4. Add the ground pork to the skillet and cook until it’s well browned.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly.
6. Carefully fill each bell pepper with the pork mixture until they’re generously stuffed.
7. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover them with foil to retain moisture.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
9. If you’d like, remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top of the peppers, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve warm and enjoy.

How to Serve Ground Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed peppers can stand alone, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your meal. Serve them with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced dinner. For a Italian twist, drizzle some basil pesto over the top just before serving! A chilled glass of white wine pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay good for up to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them! Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• When selecting bell peppers, look for ones that feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant color.
• For extra flavor, try browning the ground pork with a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce.
• If you prefer a crunchy texture, skip the foil for the first half of baking to allow the tops of the peppers to brown.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can swap out the ground pork for ground chicken, try quinoa instead of rice for a healthy twist, or use different spices to change the flavor profile completely. Adding diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the stuffing will amp up the texture and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the prep time for ground pork stuffed bell peppers?

Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30-40 minutes, depending on your oven and the size of the peppers.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the filling a day ahead and store it separately. Stuff the peppers and bake them just before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover stuffed peppers?

The best way to reheat them is in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but the oven will keep the peppers’ texture better.

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