Name: Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4–6 bell peppers (any color, tops cut off and seeds removed); 1 1/2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup zucchini or mushrooms, diced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup tomato sauce or marinara; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, basil, or cilantro, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These stuffed peppers are packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making them both filling and healthy. They’re also highly versatile—easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, grains, or cheese. Plus, they make a beautiful presentation at the table, so they’re ideal for serving guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bell peppers (any color, tops cut off and seeds removed)
Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Olive oil
Zucchini or mushrooms, diced
Black beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Tomato sauce or marinara
Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro)
Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Salt and black pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Slice tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds, and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, and diced zucchini or mushrooms until softened.
Stir in beans, diced tomatoes, cooked rice, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Spoon filling into each pepper, packing gently.
Place stuffed peppers in the baking dish. Pour a little tomato sauce over each pepper.
Cover with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese if desired, and bake for another 5–10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6 people.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Mediterranean Style: Add olives, feta cheese, and oregano.
Spicy Kick: Stir in chili powder, cumin, or diced jalapeños.
Mexican-Inspired: Use black beans, corn, salsa, and top with cheddar.
Vegan Version: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Grain-Free: Substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Freeze stuffed peppers individually wrapped in foil, then stored in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I need to pre-cook the peppers?

Not necessary, but parboiling them for 5 minutes makes them softer if you prefer.

Can I use other grains besides rice?

Yes, quinoa, couscous, farro, or barley all work well.

How do I keep the peppers from tipping over?

Trim the bottoms slightly so they sit flat in the baking dish.

Can I make this recipe without beans?

Yes, you can substitute extra vegetables, lentils, or tofu.

Should I peel the peppers?

No, the skin softens as it bakes and holds the filling together.

Can I make this in the slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.

Can I add meat if I want?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or beef can be added for a non-vegetarian version.

What cheese works best?

Mozzarella, cheddar, feta, or Monterey Jack all melt nicely.

Are stuffed peppers gluten-free?

Yes, if you use rice, quinoa, or other gluten-free grains.

Conclusion

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers are a colorful, delicious, and versatile dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. With endless filling options and easy make-ahead prep, they’re a fantastic recipe to keep in rotation for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.