Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Discover the deliciousness of Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers, a healthy meal that combines seasoned ground beef, nutty quinoa, and vibrant bell peppers. This easy-to-make recipe is packed with nutrients and flavor, making it perfect for family dinners. Customize it to cater to different tastes by swapping proteins or adding seasonal veggies. Enjoy a comforting dish that satisfies hunger and creates joyful memories around the table. Make it tonight!

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Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color you prefer)

1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed to remove bitterness

2 cups beef broth (or water for a lighter flavor)

1 pound lean ground beef

1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, including juices)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a depth of flavor

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese blend)

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional but adds freshness)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with the beef broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid has been absorbed. Once cooked, remove from the heat and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook thoroughly, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Combine the Filling: To the cooked beef mixture, stir in the fluffy quinoa, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything well until combined and heated through.

Prepare the Bell Peppers: While the filling cooks, slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove all seeds and membranes. If desired, you can lighten the flavor of the peppers by roasting them in the oven for 10 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers: Carefully spoon the savory beef and quinoa mixture into each bell pepper, packing them generously until they reach the top. Evenly distribute the shredded cheese over each stuffed pepper.

Bake the Peppers: Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover them with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Afterwards, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the peppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if using, for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 55 min | 4 servings