Introduce your kids to a world of colors and flavors with Stuffed Bell Peppers! This nutritious and fun meal is a great way to get children excited about eating vegetables. Filled with a tasty and healthy mixture, these bell peppers are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper
Ingredients
- Bell peppers, 4 (choose different colors)
- Ground turkey or beef, 200 grams (7 ounces)
- Cooked rice, 200 grams (7 ounces)
- Onion, finely chopped, 50 grams (1.75 ounces)
- Garlic, minced, 1 clove (about 5 grams)
- Tomato sauce, 100 grams (3.5 ounces)
- Shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella), 100 grams (3.5 ounces)
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon (0.5 ounces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Corn kernels, black beans, or chopped vegetables for extra filling
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Peppers: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Cook Meat & Veggies: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned.
- Add Rice & Tomato Sauce: Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes. Optionally, add corn, black beans, or other vegetables.
- Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture. Place them upright in a baking dish.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover, top with cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let the peppers cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Variety of Colors: Use different colored bell peppers for a visually appealing meal.
- Customize the Filling: Adapt the filling to include your kids' favorite ingredients.
- Cheese Topping: The cheese not only adds flavor but also makes the dish more appealing to kids.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, substitute the meat with a mix of beans, lentils, or additional vegetables.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can these be made ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare them ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.