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Easy Crockpot Cheesy Stuffed Peppers Recipe for Perfect Cozy Dinners

crockpot cheesy stuffed peppers - featured image

A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe featuring bell peppers stuffed with a cheesy, savory filling of ground meat, rice, and herbs. Perfect for busy evenings and cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup (200 g) cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 small diced onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley or basil (optional, chopped)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry 4 large bell peppers. Cut the tops off and carefully remove seeds and membranes, keeping the shells intact. Set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Transfer the cooked meat mixture to a bowl. Stir in 1 cup (200 g) cooked rice, 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce, 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar, and 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella. Mix well until combined. The filling should be moist but not soupy.
  5. Spoon the filling into each pepper shell, packing it tightly but gently to avoid tearing. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the crockpot.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The peppers should be tender and the cheese melted and bubbly.
  7. Carefully remove the peppers from the crockpot with a slotted spoon. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

If the filling looks dry before cooking, add a splash more tomato sauce or broth. Watch peppers after 5 hours on low to avoid overcooking and collapsing. Browning the meat first adds flavor and prevents bland filling. Do not overfill peppers to avoid bursting. Let peppers rest 5-10 minutes before serving for easier handling and flavor melding. Can be baked in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes if no crockpot is available.

Nutrition

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