Picture this: it’s a busy day, and you’re craving a comforting, home-cooked meal that doesn’t require hours of standing in the kitchen. That’s where Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers come to the rescue. These tender, flavor-packed peppers, filled with a savory beef and rice mixture, simmer to perfection in your slow cooker while you go about your day. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making this classic dish effortlessly.
Why Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers Are a Must-Try
Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers are a balance of convenience and indulgence. With minimal prep time, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The result? A hearty, nutrient-packed meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, stuffed peppers are endlessly versatile—you can adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand.
Ingredients for Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers
Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
Large bell peppers | 6 | Any color (red, green, yellow, or orange). |
Ground beef (80% lean) | 1 lb | Can substitute with turkey or plant-based meat. |
Finely chopped onions | 1 cup | Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. |
Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances all the flavors. |
Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste. |
Garlic (finely chopped) | 6 cloves | For a bold and aromatic touch. |
Cooked white rice | 1 ½ cups | Use leftover rice for convenience. |
Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 oz) | Divided, for mixing and topping. |
Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups | Divided, for stuffing and topping. |
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
1. Prepare the Bell Peppers
Trim the tops off the bell peppers and remove the ribs and seeds. This creates the perfect cavity for stuffing. Spray your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and set the peppers aside.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onions over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently until the beef is browned and the onions soften. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 15 seconds. Drain any excess fat.
3. Mix the Stuffing
Stir the cooked white rice, ½ cup of tomato sauce, and 1 cup of shredded cheese into the beef mixture. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
4. Stuff the Peppers
Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it tightly but not overstuffing. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in the slow cooker. Pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the peppers.
5. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the peppers cook for 4½ to 5½ hours, or until the peppers are tender and the flavors are fully melded.
6. Add the Finishing Touch
In the last few minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese over the peppers. Cover and cook for 3–8 minutes longer, just until the cheese is melted and gooey.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the peppers from the slow cooker. Serve them warm, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers
- Choose the Right Peppers: Select peppers that are similar in size so they cook evenly.
- Precook the Rice: Using pre-cooked rice saves time and ensures the filling has the perfect texture.
- Customize the Filling: Swap the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian alternative like lentils.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Shred your cheese from a block for better melting and flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: Leave a little space at the top of each pepper to prevent spillage.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving (1 stuffed pepper):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 350–400 |
Protein | 25–30g |
Carbohydrates | 25–30g |
Fiber | 4–6g |
Fat | 12–15g |
Sodium | 700–800mg |
Why Your Family Will Love This Dish
Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers are more than just a meal—they’re an experience. The colorful presentation is inviting, the cheesy topping is irresistible, and the filling is hearty and satisfying. Best of all, the slow cooker makes it easy to prepare this dish ahead of time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.
FAQs About Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers
