Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Looking to spice up your dinner routine? Try these Cheesy Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers! This delicious recipe combines savory ground beef or turkey, nutritious quinoa, and colorful veggies, all baked in vibrant bell peppers and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family meals or meal prep, these stuffed peppers are not only satisfying but also packed with health benefits. Follow our easy steps to create a flavorful dish that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

4 medium bell peppers (any color)

1 cup cooked quinoa

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)

¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed peppers.

Prepare the Peppers:

- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and gently remove the seeds and membranes.

- Lightly coat the exterior of the peppers with olive oil for a nice finish. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish, ensuring they are stable, and set them aside.

Cook the Beef:

- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté them together until the onions are translucent, for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the Beef:

- Introduce the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook the meat until it is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, which should take about 5-6 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it off carefully.

Mix Filling Ingredients:

- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked quinoa, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.

- Let the filling simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.

Incorporate Cheese:

- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in half of the shredded cheese, mixing until it is melted and evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Stuff the Peppers:

- Use a spoon to fill each bell pepper with the savory beef and quinoa mixture, packing it down gently for an even fill.

- Top each stuffed pepper with the remaining shredded cheese.

Bake:

- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.

- After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden.

Garnish and Serve:

- Once baked, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.

- Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your warm and hearty creation!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed peppers on a large platter, garnished with additional herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of spice.