Introduction
Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a family meal or gathering. Packed with flavor and protein, this recipe features lean ground beef mixed with a medley of spices, all encased in colorful bell peppers. Using a pressure cooker ensures that the peppers are tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Here’s how to make them.
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
1½ cups water
1½ pounds lean ground beef
1 onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded fiesta blend cheese, divided
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (including pressure release)
Yield: Serves 4 to 6
Directions
1. Prepare the bell peppers by removing the tops, cores, and seeds.
2. Pour the water into the pressure cooker liner and place the trivet over the water.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, diced onion, minced garlic, and ½ cup of the shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly using your hands.
4. Divide the meat mixture into equal portions corresponding to the number of bell peppers.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and position them on the trivet inside the pressure cooker.
6. Close the pressure cooker lid and set the valve to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting on high for 8 minutes.
7. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure cooker to release naturally for 6 to 8 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
8. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over each pepper, then cover until the cheese melts.
9. Carefully remove the bell peppers from the pressure cooker, letting any excess liquid drain back into the pot.
10. Serve the stuffed bell peppers with your preferred toppings such as chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, salsa, or avocado.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Bell Peppers
Remove the tops, cores, and seeds from the 4 to 6 medium bell peppers. Rinse them under cold water and set aside.
Set Up the Pressure Cooker
Pour 1½ cups of water into the pressure cooker liner. Place the trivet over the water to hold the stuffed bell peppers in place during cooking.
Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1½ 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 garlic cloves, and ½ cup of shredded fiesta blend cheese. Use your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined.
Stuff the Bell Peppers
Divide the meat mixture into equal portions based on the number of bell peppers. Carefully stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, pressing down gently to ensure they are well filled. Place the stuffed peppers upright on the trivet inside the pressure cooker.
Cook the Peppers
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and set the valve to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for 8 minutes on high pressure.
Release the Pressure
After the cooking cycle completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 6 to 8 minutes. After this, perform a quick release for any remaining pressure by carefully turning the valve to venting.
Add Cheese
Once safe to open, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over each stuffed bell pepper. Cover them with the lid or a clean towel until the cheese has melted.
Serve the Stuffed Peppers
Using tongs or a slotted spoon, carefully remove the bell peppers from the pressure cooker, allowing any excess liquid to drain back into the pot. Serve the stuffed peppers with your choice of toppings such as chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, salsa, or avocado.
Notes
Adjusting Spice Levels
Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and other seasonings in the meat mixture according to your taste preferences.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with a mixture of cooked rice, beans, and vegetables for the stuffing.
Storage Instructions
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
Remove the tops, cores, and seeds from the bell peppers to create a space for the filling.
Mixing the Filling
Combine ground beef with spices, diced onion, garlic, and half of the cheese in a large bowl. Use your hands to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Stuffing the Peppers
Fill each prepared bell pepper with the meat mixture, making sure they’re packed firmly.
Using a Pressure Cooker
Add water to the pressure cooker and place a trivet inside. Stack the stuffed peppers on the trivet for even cooking.
Cooking Time
Set the pressure cooker to manual or pressure cook on high for 8 minutes, allowing for a natural pressure release afterward.
Melting Cheese
After cooking, top the peppers with the remaining shredded cheese and cover until it melts for an added creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed peppers with toppings like cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, salsa, or avocado for added flavor.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, stuffed peppers can be frozen before or after cooking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
What can I serve with stuffed peppers?
Stuffed peppers pair well with sides like rice, salad, or corn on the cob.
Are there vegetarian options for stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! You can use quinoa, beans, or lentils in place of the meat for a delicious vegetarian filling.
Conclusion
This recipe for stuffed bell peppers is not only delicious but also a nutritious option that can be prepared quickly using a pressure cooker. The blend of spices and lean ground beef creates a savory filling, while the melted cheese adds a creamy finish. You can customize your stuffed peppers with various toppings to suit your taste, making this dish versatile and enjoyable for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of quinoa and black beans for a vegetarian option. Add corn and diced tomatoes for added flavor.
Turkey and Rice Stuffed Peppers
Use lean ground turkey in place of beef and mix in cooked rice along with diced onions and spices for a lighter version.
Cheesy Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers
Mix Italian sausage with diced tomatoes, breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning for a flavorful Italian twist on stuffed peppers.
Mexican Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Use shredded rotisserie chicken mixed with black beans, corn, salsa, and taco seasoning for a quick Mexican-inspired filling.
Pesto and Veggie Stuffed Peppers
Combine your choice of chopped vegetables with basil pesto and quinoa or rice for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Seafood Stuffed Peppers
Use a mix of shrimp and crab meat combined with cream cheese and seasonings for a luxurious seafood variation.
Breakfast Stuffed Peppers
Fill bell peppers with scrambled eggs, diced ham, cheese, and chopped vegetables for a satisfying breakfast treat.
