Chef Johns Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Chef Johns Stuffed Peppers Recipe

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Chef Johns Stuffed Peppers Recipe has a way of transforming a simple meal into something truly special. I have made this dish many times over the years, and every time it gets rave reviews from family and friends. The combination of bell peppers filled with a savory mix of meat, rice, and spices creates a delightful explosion of flavor you won’t forget. I love how it’s both comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why I Love Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are one of those dishes that bring comfort to my table. They remind me of family gatherings and the joy of cooking together. Watching those colorful peppers transform as they bake is one of the highlights of making this recipe. Plus, they are so versatile! You can customize the filling to fit your dietary needs or personal preferences.

Ingredients for Chef Johns Stuffed Peppers Recipe

To make Chef John’s Stuffed Peppers Recipe, you should have these basic ingredients on hand. They are easy to find at your local grocery store.

Bell Peppers

  • Choose vibrant colors like red, yellow, and green to make your dish visually appealing.

Filling Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great)

Topping

  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
  • Extra cheese for topping if desired

Preparing the Peppers

Before you get to the fun part of stuffing these beauties, you need to prepare the peppers.

  1. Cut the Tops Off: Slice the tops off each pepper and remove the seeds and membranes. This will create a hollow space for your filling.
  2. Parboil the Peppers: Briefly boil the peppers in salted water for about 5 minutes. This helps soften them, ensuring they are perfectly tender when baking.
  3. Drain and Cool: After boiling, drain them upside down on a paper towel to ensure no extra moisture remains.
See also  Cheese Fritters Recipe

Making the Filling

The filling is the heart of the stuffed peppers. Here’s how to whip it up quickly.

  1. Cook the Meat: In a skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add Flavors: Mix in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and any other desired vegetables. Sauté until the onion turns translucent.
  3. Combine Everything: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
  1. Cheese It Up: Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheese. This adds creamy goodness to the filling.

Stuffing the Peppers

Now comes the exciting part: filling those peppers with your delicious mixture!

  1. Fill Generously: Carefully spoon the filling into each prepared pepper. Pack it lightly to make sure you get a good amount into each one.
  2. Top It Off: Add extra cheese on top of the filled peppers. This will create a beautifully melted and golden layer once baked.

Baking the Stuffed Peppers

The final step is to bake the peppers to perfection.

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F. This temperature will ensure the peppers cook evenly.
  2. Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If they can’t stand on their own, you can use crumpled foil to help stabilize them.
  3. Add Some Liquid: Pour a small amount of water or broth into the bottom of the dish. This helps steam the peppers and keeps them moist.
  1. Bake Cover: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes. This allows the peppers to soften completely.
  2. Remove Foil and Bake Again: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
See also  Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Cakes

Serving Chef John’s Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own but can also be paired with sides for a more filling dinner.

Side Options

  • Garden salad for a fresh crunch
  • Garlic bread for dipping
  • Quinoa for a wholesome grain alternative

I like to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. It makes the dish look so much more inviting.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, don’t worry! Stuffed peppers are great for meal prepping.

  • Refrigerate: Store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: You can also freeze them for 2-3 months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before putting them in freezer bags.

When you’re ready to reheat, pop them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Variations of Chef Johns Stuffed Peppers Recipe

While I love the classic version, there are so many variations you can try.

Vegetarian Option

  • Replace the meat with black beans or lentils for a tasty vegetarian version.

Mexican Twist

  • Use taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning and replace the rice with quinoa. Top with salsa and avocado.

Different Grains

  • Try using quinoa, farro, or barley instead of rice for a nutrition boost.

Enjoy Your Chef John’s Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Chef John’s Stuffed Peppers Recipe has truly earned a spot in my kitchen as a go-to meal. It combines wholesome ingredients, incredible flavors, and the warmth of home-cooked food. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it never disappoints.