Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Beef
Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Beef are a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients to your table. These colorful bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and Mediterranean seasonings, making them a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. It combines lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains, making it a balanced dish. The combination of flavors from the spices and fresh ingredients brings the essence of the Mediterranean right to your home. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and is easy to customize based on your preferences.
How to Make Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Beef
Ingredients
- Large Bell Peppers: (6-8, Assorted Colors): Choose firm, vibrant bell peppers. Different colors add visual appeal and subtle flavor variations.
- Ground Beef: (1 lb): Opt for lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to reduce excess fat. Ground lamb or turkey can also be substituted for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Onion: (1 medium, Diced): Yellow or white onion works well as a base for flavor. Diced finely for even cooking and texture.
- Garlic: (3-4 cloves, Minced): Fresh garlic is crucial for Mediterranean flavor. Minced finely to release its aromatic oils.
- Cooked Rice: (1 cup, Cooked): Use cooked white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. Leftover rice is perfect for this recipe. Cooked rice provides bulk and helps bind the filling.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: (1 (14.5 oz) can, Drained): Drained diced tomatoes add moisture, acidity, and tomato flavor to the filling. Look for fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth.
- Tomato Paste: (2 tablespoons): Concentrated tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and adds richness.
- Kalamata Olives: (½ cup, Pitted and Chopped): Kalamata olives contribute a briny, salty, and distinctive Mediterranean flavor. Pitted and chopped for easy incorporation.
- Feta Cheese: (½ cup, Crumbled): Feta cheese provides a salty, tangy, and creamy element. Crumbled for even distribution throughout the filling.
- Fresh Parsley: (¼ cup, Chopped): Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and freshness. Chopped finely for optimal flavor release.
- Fresh Oregano: (2 tablespoons, Chopped): Fresh oregano is a quintessential Mediterranean herb, adding a warm, slightly peppery flavor. Chopped finely.
- Dried Oregano: (1 teaspoon): Dried oregano enhances the oregano flavor and adds depth.
- Dried Basil: (1 teaspoon): Dried basil contributes a sweet and aromatic flavor, complementing the other herbs.
- Olive Oil: (3 tablespoons): Extra virgin olive oil is the preferred choice for Mediterranean cooking, adding flavor and healthy fats.
- Salt: (To taste): Enhances the flavors of all ingredients. Adjust according to your preference.
- Black Pepper: (To taste): Adds a touch of spice and complements the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): (¼ teaspoon or to taste): For a subtle kick of heat, red pepper flakes can be added.
- Water or Broth: (½ cup): Used to create steam and prevent the peppers from drying out during baking. Vegetable broth or beef broth can be used for added flavor.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Slice each pepper lengthwise in half from stem to bottom. Remove the seeds and membranes from each half, creating hollow boats. If desired, you can also slice off a small portion of the bottom of each pepper half so they sit flat, being careful not to cut through the pepper.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, draining off any excess fat.
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked rice, chopped Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh oregano, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes into the skillet with the beef mixture. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Spoon the beef and rice mixture generously into each bell pepper half, mounding it slightly on top. Do not overstuff, as the filling will expand slightly during baking.
Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Pour ½ cup of water or broth into the bottom of the dish. This will create steam and prevent the peppers from drying out. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, covered.
Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through and slightly browned on top. The peppers should be easily pierced with a fork.
Let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the peppers to cool slightly. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Beef
Serve these stuffed peppers hot from the oven. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Adding a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can also enhance the flavors.
How to Store Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Beef
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed peppers for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly for freezing.
Tips to Make Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Beef
- Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for a more beautiful presentation.
- Add chopped spinach or other vegetables for added nutrition.
- For a vegetarian version, use lentils or chickpeas instead of ground beef.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences; feel free to add more or less garlic, herbs, or heat.
Variation
Consider using different grains like quinoa or bulgur instead of rice for a unique texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheese options, like ricotta or mozzarella, to switch up the flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
2. Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef and will still provide a delicious flavor.
3. How do I know when the peppers are done?
The peppers should be tender and the filling should be heated through, with a slightly browned top. You can easily pierce them with a fork when they are done.
Enjoy making these Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Beef – a dish full of flavor and goodness that will delight your taste buds!
