Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice – A Healthy & Flavorful Meal

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, flavorful, and colorful dish like Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner, a meatless Monday option, or a simple way to use up extra veggies, this recipe is a perfect choice.

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that combines tender roasted peppers with a hearty, seasoned filling. The best part? They’re incredibly versatile—you can customize the ingredients to suit your tastes. Plus, they’re packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them both delicious and nutritious.

If you love easy, wholesome meals, these stuffed peppers will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Wholesome – Uses fresh vegetables, hearty grains, and flavorful spices.
• Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
• Healthy & Nutrient-Packed – Loaded with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love the cheesy, flavorful filling!

Ingredients for Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice

This recipe features a delicious mix of grains, vegetables, and beans, all seasoned to perfection.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange)	4 large	Serves as the edible “bowl”
Cooked rice (white, brown, or wild)	1 cup	Adds heartiness and texture
Olive oil	1 tbsp	Used for sautéing
Onion, diced	½ cup	Enhances flavor and sweetness
Garlic, minced	2 cloves	Adds aromatic depth
Zucchini, diced	½ cup	Provides texture and freshness
Mushrooms, diced	½ cup	Adds umami and richness
Canned diced tomatoes, drained	½ cup	Brings acidity and juiciness
Black beans or chickpeas, rinsed & drained	½ cup	Provides plant-based protein
Paprika	1 tsp	Adds mild smokiness
Ground cumin	1 tsp	Enhances warmth and depth of flavor
Salt	½ tsp	Enhances all the flavors
Black pepper	¼ tsp	Adds mild heat
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)	½ cup	Creates a cheesy, melty topping
Fresh parsley or cilantro	For garnish	Adds color and freshness

How to Make Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
4. Roast for 10 minutes to soften slightly while preparing the filling.

2. Make the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
3. Stir in the zucchini and mushrooms, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and black beans (or chickpeas), stirring to combine.
5. Mix in the cooked rice, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.

3. Stuff the Peppers & Bake

1. Spoon the filling into the partially roasted bell peppers, packing them tightly.
2. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top for a melty finish.
3. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

4. Serve & Enjoy

• Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve warm.

Expert Tips for the Best Stuffed Bell Peppers

Choosing the Right Peppers

• Red Peppers – Sweeter and milder in flavor.
• Green Peppers – Slightly bitter, perfect for a savory contrast.
• Yellow & Orange Peppers – Mild and slightly fruity.

Making It More Filling

• Add quinoa or bulgur instead of rice for extra protein.
• Mix in corn or peas for added texture and sweetness.
• Include chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy twist.

Dairy-Free & Vegan Options

• Skip the cheese or use vegan shredded cheese.
• Drizzle with cashew cream or top with avocado slices.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 Stuffed Pepper)
Calories	230 kcal
Protein	8g
Carbohydrates	32g
Fat	7g
Fiber	6g
Sugar	5g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

What to Serve with Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed peppers are satisfying on their own, but they also pair well with:

• Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery side to soak up any juices.
• Simple Side Salad – Fresh greens with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Roasted Vegetables – A mix of carrots, zucchini, and asparagus.
• Yogurt or Sour Cream – A cool contrast to the warm, spiced filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make These Stuffed Peppers Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the peppers and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

3. Can I Freeze Stuffed Bell Peppers?

Yes! Wrap individual peppers in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.

4. What Can I Use Instead of Rice?

Try quinoa, farro, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

5. Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?

Absolutely! Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

6. Can I Cook These in an Air Fryer?

Yes! Cook the stuffed peppers at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, checking for doneness.

Final Thoughts – Try These Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice Today!

These Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice are a delicious, nutritious, and versatile meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a gathering, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Now it’s your turn! Gather your ingredients, try out this simple recipe, and enjoy a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal.

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