Introduction
Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and nutritious dish that can be prepared quickly using a pressure cooker. This recipe combines lean ground beef with flavorful spices and fresh vegetables, all encased in tender bell peppers. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 to 6 medium bell peppers
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups water
1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
1 onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded fiesta blend cheese, divided
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings
To prepare this flavorful dish, start by preparing the bell peppers. Remove the tops, cores, and seeds, then set them aside. In the pressure cooker, add water and place the trivet over it to hold the stuffed peppers above the liquid.
In a large bowl, mix the lean ground beef with chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, diced onion, minced garlic, and half a cup of shredded cheese. Ensure everything is well combined using your hands, then divide the mixture into portions that match the number of bell peppers.
Next, carefully stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and arrange them on the trivet inside the pressure cooker. Seal the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high for 8 minutes, and once the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 6 to 8 minutes before performing a quick release.
When the peppers are done cooking, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top and cover to let it melt. Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the pot, letting any excess liquid drain back into the cooker.
Serve your stuffed peppers hot with your choice of taco toppings like chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, salsa, or avocado, making each bite a burst of flavor. Enjoy this satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Bell Peppers
Remove the tops, cores, and seeds from 4 to 6 medium bell peppers. Rinse them under cold water to clean and set them aside.
Set Up the Pressure Cooker
Pour 1 ½ cups of water into the pressure cooker liner and place the trivet over the water to elevate the stuffed peppers.
Mix the Meat Filling
In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ pounds of lean ground beef, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of ground cumin, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 finely diced onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and ½ cup of the shredded fiesta blend cheese. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Stuff the Bell Peppers
Divide the meat mixture into equal portions corresponding to the number of bell peppers you have prepared. Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, ensuring they are filled to the top. Place the stuffed peppers upright on the trivet inside the pressure cooker.
Cooking the Peppers
Secure the lid of the pressure cooker and set the valve to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting on high for 8 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 6 to 8 minutes before performing a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Add the Cheese
Open the pressure cooker lid and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over each stuffed pepper. Cover the peppers for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
Remove and Drain
Carefully remove the bell peppers from the pressure cooker. Allow any excess liquid to drain back into the pot.
Serve
Serve the stuffed bell peppers warm, accompanied by your preferred taco toppings such as chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, salsa, or avocado.
Notes
Choosing Bell Peppers
Select bell peppers that are firm and unblemished for the best results.
Meat Variations
Feel free to substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor.
Pressure Cooker Settings
Ensure you follow the specific pressure cooking instructions for your model, as some may vary slightly in timings and settings.
Storage
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Cook techniques
Preparing Bell Peppers
To prepare bell peppers for stuffing, cut off the tops and carefully remove the cores and seeds.
Mixing Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with spices, diced onions, minced garlic, and some cheese. Use your hands for thorough mixing to ensure even seasoning throughout.
Stuffing Peppers
Divide the meat mixture evenly and stuff each bell pepper, making sure to pack it well for optimal cooking.
Using a Pressure Cooker
Pour water into the pressure cooker and place a trivet above it. This setup allows the steam to circulate and cook the stuffed peppers evenly.
Cooking Time
Set the pressure cooker to high for 8 minutes. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 6 to 8 minutes before a quick release.
Melting Cheese
After removing the peppers, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top and cover them briefly to melt the cheese effectively.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed bell peppers with a variety of taco toppings such as chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, salsa, or avocado for added flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives depending on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?
Yes, stuffed bell peppers can be frozen. To freeze, cool them completely, then wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What other ingredients can I add to the stuffing?
You can enhance the stuffing by adding cooked rice, beans, corn, or different types of cheese for added flavor and texture.
What should I serve with the stuffed bell peppers?
Stuffed bell peppers pair well with a fresh side salad, rice, or a side of tortilla chips with salsa for a more complete meal.
Conclusion
Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal option that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The combination of lean ground beef, spices, and cheese creates a flavorful filling that complements the sweetness of the peppers. This recipe not only offers a satisfying dish but also allows for versatility with toppings and side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
Replace the ground beef with a mixture of black beans, corn, quinoa, and diced tomatoes for a hearty vegetarian option.
Mexican Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Use quinoa cooked in vegetable broth, mixed with diced tomatoes, corn, and taco seasoning as the stuffing for a healthy twist.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Substitute lean ground beef with shredded cooked chicken and add a zesty buffalo sauce for a flavorful kick.
Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers
Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef, adding herbs like oregano and basil for an Italian flair.
Meal Prep Stuffed Peppers
Stuff bell peppers with your favorite grains, veggies, and proteins, then freeze for quick meal options throughout the week.
Stuffed Peppers with Rice
Blend in cooked rice with the beef mixture for a classic stuffed pepper that’s filling and budget-friendly.
Spicy Stuffed Peppers
Increase the chili powder and add jalapeños or chopped chili peppers to the stuffing for those who enjoy a little heat in their meal.
