Stuffed Bell Pepper Rings (A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish)

These stuffed bell pepper rings are one of my favorite creative takes on the traditional stuffed peppers. Instead of filling whole peppers, I slice them into colorful rings and pack them with a flavorful meat and rice mixture topped with melty cheese. I love how fun they look on the plate and how easy they are to serve as individual portions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a lighter, faster version of classic stuffed peppers without sacrificing flavor. The bell pepper rings cook more quickly, and the filling is hearty, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned. I also like that I can use different proteins or grains depending on what I have on hand, making it super flexible. Plus, the bright red, yellow, and green peppers make this dish look just as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

3 large bell peppers red, yellow, and green, sliced into 1-inch rings
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 pound ground beef or turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat
1/2 cup cooked rice or quinoa for a healthier option
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley or basil chopped
Extra shredded cheese optional
Sour cream or Greek yogurt optional

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. I slice the bell peppers into 1-inch rings, remove any seeds, and arrange the rings flat on the sheet.
3. In a skillet, I heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
4. I add the ground meat (or plant-based alternative) and cook until browned, seasoning with Italian herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. I stir in the cooked rice or quinoa and diced tomatoes, mixing until combined.
6. I spoon the mixture into each bell pepper ring, pressing gently to pack it in.
7. I sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed ring.
8. I bake for 20–25 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. I garnish with parsley or basil, and serve with extra cheese, sour cream, or Greek yogurt if I want extra richness.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4–6 servings, depending on the size of the peppers. It takes around 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, so I usually have it ready in about 40 minutes.

Variations

I like swapping rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. For a spicier version, I add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the filling. I sometimes mix in black beans or corn to make the rings even more hearty. Different cheeses like pepper jack or feta also give a fun flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake them at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until warmed through. These also freeze well I just wrap them individually and bake from frozen, adding extra time.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble them in advance, refrigerate, and then bake right before serving.

Do I need to pre-cook the peppers?

No, they soften perfectly while baking with the filling.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, I use plant-based meat or replace it with beans and extra veggies.

What’s the best way to keep the filling from falling out?

I pack it in firmly with a spoon so it holds together while baking.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, mozzarella, pepper jack, feta, or even vegan cheese all work well.

How do I make this dish spicier?

I add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the filling.

Can I freeze these stuffed rings?

Yes, I freeze them before or after baking and reheat in the oven.

Can I make them low-carb?

Yes, I replace the rice with cauliflower rice.

Do I need to cover them while baking?

No, I leave them uncovered so the cheese gets nicely browned.

What can I serve with these stuffed pepper rings?

I like serving them with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

These stuffed bell pepper rings are one of my favorite fun twists on a classic comfort dish. I love how colorful, flavorful, and versatile they are, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With their cheesy filling and tender peppers, they’re always a hit at the table.

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