Crock Pot stuffed peppers are a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy days when you want a wholesome, flavorful dinner with minimal effort. Bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground meat, rice, and vegetables, then slow-cooked to tender perfection. The crock pot allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the peppers juicy and soft. This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to customize the filling to your preferences, whether you prefer beef, turkey, or a vegetarian version. It’s a complete meal in one, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), divided
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, half of the shredded cheese, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff the peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, packing it in tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the crock pot.
- Add the sauce: Pour the marinara or tomato sauce over and around the peppers. Cover the crock pot with the lid.
- Cook: Set the crock pot to low and cook for 6–7 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours, until the peppers are tender and the filling is fully cooked.
- Add cheese and finish: During the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the tops of the peppers. Replace the lid and let the cheese melt.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the crock pot and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, with extra sauce from the crock pot spooned over the peppers.
These Crock Pot stuffed peppers are an easy, comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite, and they reheat beautifully for leftovers!
