Stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort food, and when filled with a savory blend of beef and spinach, they become a nutritious and satisfying meal. Beef and Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers are not only packed with flavor, but they also offer a healthy dose of vegetables, lean protein, and iron, making them a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Sweet bell peppers are hollowed out and stuffed with a hearty filling made from ground beef, spinach, rice (optional), and a variety of seasonings. The beef is cooked with onions, garlic, and herbs to bring out its full flavor, while the spinach adds a vibrant pop of green and a mild, earthy taste that balances the richness of the beef. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cheese on top before baking, allowing it to melt into a golden, bubbling layer.
To prepare, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ground beef in a skillet until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Then, stir in fresh spinach and cook until it wilts. You can also add cooked rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a bit of texture and extra nutrition. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or thyme for a classic Mediterranean touch.
Once the filling is ready, stuff it into the hollowed bell peppers and place them in the oven to bake. The peppers soften and become tender, while the filling cooks through, becoming a deliciously cohesive mixture. A final topping of melted cheese adds a comforting finishing touch.
Beef and Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers are a versatile dish, you can experiment with different proteins, like turkey or chicken, or add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to the filling. Serve them with a side salad or some roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 Bell peppers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups spinach chopped
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked rice.
- Spoon the beef and spinach mixture into the bell peppers, filling them to the top.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the stuffed bell peppers.
- Place the stuffed bell peppers on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.