It’s a cozy evening, and the aroma of Sweet and Spicy Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug. Imagine sinking your fork into a vibrant bell pepper filled with juicy ground beef, delicious melty cheese, and a delightful medley of spices, all patiently simmering in your crockpot. This Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a time-saver for busy evenings when you want homemade goodness without the hassle.
Gather your family around the table and get ready for a dinner that feels like a heartfelt hug, minus the calories! There’s something special about watching those colorful peppers transform into a delicious main course while you go about your day. It’s perfect for weeknights or when you have friends over. So, grab your crockpot and let’s dive into this delightful culinary adventure!
Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
- This incredible Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers:
4 bell peppers – Bright and colorful, bell peppers are not only eye-catching but also nutritious. Choose firm ones for best results.
1 pound ground beef (85/15) – This lean meat provides a great base for the filling, keeping your peppers juicy without being greasy.
1/2 cup onion, finely diced – Aromatic onions add depth of flavor to the filling and caramelize beautifully during cooking.
8 oz can of tomato sauce – Use this to bind the filling and add a luscious, tangy element.
3/4 cup Mexican rice, cooked – This adds heartiness to the dish. Feel free to use leftover rice or any variety you love.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder – A touch of this spice enhances the onion flavor without the crunch.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder brings a warm, inviting flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon cumin – This spice adds an earthy note that makes your dish taste wonderfully complex.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a hint of smokiness that elevates the overall dish.
1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder – Provides a little kick that balances the sweetness of the peppers.
1 1/4 cups colby jack cheese, shredded and divided – This melty cheese adds creaminess and a delightful cheesiness to each bite.
How to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers:
Step 1: Prep the Flavor Base
Start by pouring the tomato sauce into a heat-proof bowl and combining it with the finely diced onion. Heat this mixture in the microwave for about 5 minutes to soften the onions. This will create a flavorful base for your filling. Once done, set it aside and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the stems and seeds. Chop the tops finely and set them aside. In the bottom of your crockpot, pour in 1/3 of a cup of water. Use a cooking rack or form foil balls to lift the peppers off the bottom, then place the pepper shells on top.
Step 3: Combine the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked ground beef, cooled onion and tomato mixture, the diced tops of the peppers, 1 cup of shredded colby jack cheese, cooked Mexican rice, and seasonings. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring that the beef is coated in all that flavorful goodness.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the mixture generously into each bell pepper, pressing down slightly to pack the filling in. Top each filled pepper with the remaining cheese for that perfect melty finish.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours. The filling should be cooked to 160 degrees when done.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re done, carefully remove them from the crockpot. Lunch or dinner is ready, everyone! Serve them hot and maybe drizzle a little more sauce on top just for fun. Nothing beats that cheesy, savory goodness fresh from the slow cooker.
Get ready for a delightful experience with your Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers! Enjoy the flavors and the smiles that accompany this comforting dish!
You Must Know About Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
- This showstopping Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers Cooking Process
To create the perfect Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers, start by softening onions in tomato sauce. While that cools, prepare your bell peppers and mix the filling. This sequence ensures flavors meld beautifully and everything cooks harmoniously.
Add Your Touch to Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Feel free to swap out ingredients in your Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers. Use ground turkey instead of beef, add black beans for extra protein, or toss in some corn for sweetness. Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Storing & Reheating Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Store leftover Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through, or pop them back in the slow cooker on low for about 30 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
- This professional-quality Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing these Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers at a family gathering always brings smiles and compliments. My cousin, a tough critic, declared them “better than anything I’ve had at a restaurant”! It’s moments like these that remind me why I love cooking.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
What is Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious dish where bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, cheese, and spices, then cooked slowly in a crockpot. This method not only tenderizes the peppers but also allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The result is a hearty and wholesome meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, you can customize the filling to suit your taste, making it a versatile and beloved recipe.
How to Customize Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers?
You can easily customize your Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers by changing up the filling ingredients. Consider using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef. You can also add beans, such as black or kidney beans, for extra protein and fiber. Incorporating vegetables like corn or diced tomatoes adds sweetness and freshness to the mix. Additionally, explore different cheeses — pepper jack can lend a delightful kick, while mozzarella offers a gooey, melty texture.
Can You Freeze Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers! After cooking, allow them to cool completely before wrapping each pepper tightly with plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them up in the microwave or return them to the slow cooker on low until heated through. Enjoy the convenience of having a delicious meal ready for those busy days!
How Long to Cook Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Cooking time for Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers typically ranges from 6 to 8 hours on low heat or about 3 to 4 hours on high heat. It’s important to check that the internal temperature of the meat reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure food safety. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the peppers are tender yet firm, offering a delightful bite. Just set it and forget it until mealtime!
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers are a fantastic meal option that combines flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, these peppers can satisfy a variety of taste preferences. Whether you decide to follow the classic recipe or make your unique twist, serving these delightful stuffed peppers is sure to impress. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the convenience of this beloved dish, making Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
CrockPot Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour tomato sauce into a heat-proof bowl and add diced onion. Heat the onion/tomato sauce mixture in the microwave for about 5 minutes to soften onions. Set aside to cool.
- Cut the tops off of bell peppers. Remove stems and seeds and dice the tops of the bell peppers. Pour 1/3 of a cup of water into the bottom of the crock pot. Add a cooking rack or foil balls to the bottom of the crock pot and place bell peppers on top.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine uncooked ground beef, cooled onion/tomato sauce mixture, diced bell peppers, 1 cup of shredded colby jack cheese, cooked mexican rice, salt, and pepper.
- Fill bell peppers with ground beef mixture and top with remaining cheese. Cook on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Test mixture with meat thermometer for doneness; it should be cooked to 160 degrees.
