Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Rice
If you’re looking for a delicious and nourishing meal that requires minimal effort, then Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Rice is the perfect dish for you. These colorful bell peppers are not just beautiful to look at; they are also filled with a tasty mixture of rice and ground beef, seasoned with fresh herbs and vegetables. Plus, they cook gently in your slow cooker, making them tender and flavorful.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze. Second, preparing the stuffed peppers in a slow cooker allows the flavors to blend beautifully as they cook. Finally, it’s perfect for families or meal prep, as these stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time and reheated with ease. Whether you’re enjoying them for dinner or packing them for lunch, they are sure to satisfy!
How to Make Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked long-grain or jasmine rice (preferably a day old or cold)
- 1 pound cooked lean ground beef (about 2 cups cooked)
- 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup finely diced onion
- 1 cup fresh herbs (a mix of dill, cilantro, and Italian parsley – 1/3 cup each)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6-8 large colored bell peppers (smaller peppers may be substituted, but more will be needed)
- 1 cup water
- 4 ounces canned tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the filling: rice, cooked ground beef, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, half of the diced onion, fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix well.
- Prepare the bell peppers by removing the tops and hollowing out the insides.
- Stuff the peppers with the filling mixture until they are full.
- In the bottom of the slow cooker, pour in the water and canned tomato sauce. Add salt and pepper, then mix until combined.
- Arrange the stuffed peppers over the sauce mixture in the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or until the peppers are tender.
- Once cooked, serve by spooning the sauce from the bottom of the slow cooker over the stuffed peppers.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Rice
These stuffed peppers are best served warm. To serve, place the peppers on a plate and drizzle with the flavorful sauce from the slow cooker. You can enjoy them alone or pair them with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Rice
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze stuffed peppers in individual portions, making them convenient for future meals. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Rice
- Use day-old rice for better texture; it prevents the filling from being too mushy.
- Feel free to mix up the ground meat; ground turkey or chicken work well too.
- Top with cheese in the last few minutes of cooking if you like a cheesy finish.
- Adjust spices according to your taste; add more herbs or different spices if desired.
Variation
If you want a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or chickpeas. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, you can use any type of rice you prefer, including brown rice or even quinoa.
2. How long can I store cooked stuffed peppers in the freezer?
Cooked stuffed peppers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure they are stored in an airtight container.
3. Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Enjoy these tasty Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Rice at your next meal! They’re simple, healthy, and packed with flavor.
