Crock Pot Stuff Peppers: Slow Cooker Delights

There’s a special feeling when you enter the kitchen and the smell of slow-cooked food hits you. When I first tried making Crockpot stuffed peppers, I was not sure. Using a slow cooker seemed unnecessary. But seeing those bell peppers cooked just right, with their beef and rice filling under tomato sauce, changed my mind.

This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also easy to make. With minimal morning prep, the Crockpot handles the rest. Ideal for busy individuals craving a tasty meal, this straightforward recipe delivers flavor without the stress, making it perfect for a fuss-free dinner.

Key Takeaways

• Quick prep time: just 15 minutes in the morning.
• It comes out of the Crockpot perfectly cooked and flavorful.
• It contains 303 calories per serving with balanced macronutrients.
• High in protein with 34g per serving.
• Rich in vitamins, including Vitamin A and Vitamin C.

Introduction to slow cooker Crockpot Stuffed Peppers

My favorite slow cooker stuffed peppers recipe is simple and has exceptional flavors. It mixes ground beef, hot Italian sausage, rice, and seasonings to create healthy stuffed peppers that suit you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep, this recipe suits even the busiest days.
2. Health-Conscious: Each serving is rich in protein, vitamins, and nutrients, making it a balanced choice.
3. Versatile Additions: Customize with vegetarian fillings, alternative proteins, or extra vegetables to suit any palate.

Why You’ll Love This slow cooker

This recipe is loved for its convenience and depth of flavors from slow cooking. With just some prep, you can let the Crockpot do its thing. You’ll get the best-stuffed peppers with little work. These peppers cook for 5-6 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH. It’s perfect when you’re busy.

“The beauty of healthy stuffed peppers lies in their ability to deliver a hearty, nutritious meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare.”

Benefits of Using a crock pot

Using a crockpot has many benefits. It’s great for making stuffed peppers. Slow cooking enhances flavors and keeps the food nutritious. It also makes meal planning easier, doing most of the work for you.

• Convenience: Minimal active kitchen time required.
• Enhanced Flavors: The slow cooking process marries the flavors beautifully.
• Health Benefits: It preserves nutrients more effectively than some other cooking methods.
• Meal Planning: Perfect for busy schedules, you can prepare meals in advance.

Using a crockpot ensures your stuffed peppers are perfectly cooked. The filling gets thoroughly done, and the peppers stay tender yet firm. This versatile and easy method makes it a favorite for delicious peppers everyone will love.

Ingredients for Crock pot Stuffed Peppers

Starting your Crockpot stuffed peppers means picking the right ingredients. These items are easy to find at most stores. They contribute to creating a tasty meal that’s perfect for meal planning.

Main Ingredients for slow cooker stuffed

• Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 90/10 for a flavorful yet healthy filling.
• Parboiled Rice: Ensures the stuffing stays firm and soaks up the sauce perfectly.
• Bell Peppers: Bright and firm peppers create the ideal vessel for the filling.
• Marinara Sauce: Adds a tangy, savory richness to the dish.

Explore other hearty rice-based recipes like Mexican Rice in a Rice Cooker for more inspiration.

 Optional Add-ins to make crockpot stuffed peppers

Want to make the stuffed peppers your own? Try these add-ins. They boost flavor and nutrition:

• Different Cheeses: Adding mozzarella, cheddar, or feta gives a new twist.
• Pizza Sauce: This change gives a unique flavor different from tomato purée.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, corn, or spinach for more texture and nutrients.

These options make it simple to adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. You can keep it basic or be creative with the add-ins. Either way, the dish remains versatile and enjoyable.

Preparing the Bell Peppers

Selecting the Best Peppers: Firm and brightly colored bell peppers work best for even cooking and presentation.Cleaning and Coring: Rinse thoroughly, slice off the tops, and remove the seeds and membranes carefully.

Choosing the Right Peppers

Look for firm, bright bell peppers. Aim for 6-8 large ones that stand well on their own. This makes them cook evenly and stay in shape when stuffed. Avoid soft or flawed peppers to get the best results.

How to Clean and Core Bell Peppers

First, pick your peppers, then clean and core them carefully. Rinse them under water to remove dirt or other debris.

Cut the tops off about half an inch from the stem. Use a small knife or your fingers to remove the seeds and insides.

This makes a perfect spot for your stuffing and keeps the peppers whole, too. Follow these steps to prepare bell peppers for a delicious transformation. Your family will love them.

Making the Filling

Ingredients:

Salt & Pepper to taste

1.5 lbs Ground Beef

1 Cup Parboiled Rice

1 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

24 oz Marinara Sauce

1 Tsp Worcestershire Sauce

1 Tsp Onion Powder

Optional Additions:

• Cheese Lovers: Try incorporating mozzarella or cheddar for an indulgent twist.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the meat with black beans, spinach, and mushrooms for a plant-based option.

Love cheesy dishes? Don’t miss the Cheddar Bacon Ranch Pull-Apart Bread for your next comfort food craving.

Combining the Meat and Rice

Start with 1.5 pounds of 90/10 ground sirloin for the filling. This lean yet flavorful meat makes the peppers juicy and tender. Add 1 cup of instant rice to the meat. The rice thickens the filling and absorbs the beef’s juices.

Thoroughly mix the beef and rice in a big bowl. A good mix ensures the filling has the right texture. This amount makes about four servings, perfect for a family meal or a gathering.

Seasoning the Mixture

Seasoning is key for a flavorful filling. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to the mix. Worcestershire sauce and a dash of salt and Pepper make it even tastier. If you like spicy food, add some crushed red pepper flakes.

Then, fold in 24 ounces of marinara sauce. This step thickens the mix and adds a tomato flavor. It ensures flavorful every bite, making it a top delicious crockpot recipe.

Cut the tops off about half an inch from the stem. Use a small knife or your fingers to remove the seeds and insides.

This makes a perfect spot for your stuffing and keeps the peppers whole, too. Follow these steps to prepare bell peppers for a delicious transformation. Your family will love them.

Making the Filling for crockpot stuffed peppers recipe

Gather all the necessary ingredients to start your stuffed peppers. You can make a mixture with simple steps, highlighting this delicious crockpot recipe. This process is not only easy but also ensures a tasty filling.

Combining the Meat and Rice

Start with 1.5 pounds of 90/10 ground sirloin for the filling. This lean yet flavorful meat makes the peppers juicy and tender. Add 1 cup of instant rice to the meat. The rice thickens the filling and absorbs the beef’s juices.

Thoroughly mix the beef and rice in a big bowl. A good mix ensures the filling has the right texture. This amount makes about four servings, perfect for a family meal or a gathering.

Seasoning of slow cooker stuffed peppers

Seasoning is key for a flavorful filling. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to the mix. Worcestershire sauce and a dash of salt and Pepper make it even tastier. If you like spicy food, add some crushed red pepper flakes.

Then, fold in 24 ounces of marinara sauce. This step thickens the mix and adds a tomato flavor. It ensures flavorful every bite, making it a top delicious crockpot recipe.

Assembling the Stuffed Peppers

Making the perfect stuffed Pepper is about mixing flavors and being precise. It’s essential to assemble your ingredients correctly and use the right amount of sauce to bring out the best flavors. We’ll show you how to stuff the peppers correctly and choose the ideal sauce to cook them perfectly.

Stuffing the Peppers Properly

Start with your cleaned and cored bell peppers, which are ready for stuffing. Remember, when making stuffed peppers, don’t overfill them. Leave some space at the top. This lets the rice expand without spilling over. Mix one lb. of ground beef, 1 1/2 cups of cooked rice, and your seasonings. Then, spoon this mixture into each Pepper.

Adding the Sauce

Now, focus on the sauce after stuffing the peppers. Put half the 24 oz jar of marinara sauce in the Crockpot’s base. Place your peppers upright in the Crockpot. Then, pour the rest of the sauce over the peppers. This is key to keeping the peppers moist and flavorful as they cook slowly. It also stops them from burning.

If you like your cheesy peppers, add some shredded cheese before serving. This makes your stuffed peppers extra tasty and creamy.

Cooking the Crockpot Stuffed Peppers

1. Layer marinara sauce at the bottom of the Crockpot to prevent sticking.
2. Place stuffed peppers upright and pour remaining sauce over the top.
3. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours for perfectly tender results.

For another family-friendly dinner idea, check out Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your stuffed peppers with simple yet complementary sides for a complete meal:

• Sautéed Green Beans: Adds a crisp, fresh element to balance the richness.
• Mexican Cornbread: Sweet and savory notes elevate the dish.
• Light Red Wine: Pinot Noir or Merlot pairs perfectly with the tomato-based flavors.

Setting Up Your Crockpot

Start by preparing your Crockpot. Put tomato sauce at the bottom. This stops the peppers from sticking and helps them cook evenly. Pack the Crockpot only a little full. This lets heat move well and cooks the meal right.

Cooking Times and Temps

Cooking times are key for crockpot meals. To ensure the meat cooks well inside the peppers, cook them for 6 hours on low or 4 hours on high. This makes the meat safe to eat and tasty.

NNear the end, add shredded cheese on top, about 15 minutes before it’s done. The cheese melts and adds a yummy touch. The beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese mix creates a filling meal. You can keep these stuffed peppers in the fridge for 4 days or freeze them for 3 months.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Stuffed Peppers

Follow these tips to get the best results with Crockp:

1. Followed peppers:
2. Refrain from overstuffing the peppers to ensure they cook evenly.

Use parboiled rice instead of regular rice to keep the right texture inside.

Key Tip: Use a meat thermometer to verify that the ground beef’s internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

It’s also key to layer sauce at the bottom of the Crockpot and over the peppers. This keeps them from drying and lets them soak up flavor. Ensure the peppers are fully covered in sauce to avoid charring and improve taste.

Place the peppers so they’re not crowded in the Crockpot. This helps them cook well. A Hamilton Beach 6qt programmable slow cooker works great for this. For the best results, cook the peppers on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

• Ground beef: 1 lb.
• Bell peppers: 5
• Cooked rice: 1 ½ cups
• Marinara sauce: 24 oz. jar
• Salt: ½ tsp.
• Garlic powder: ¼ tsp.
• Dried thyme: ½ tsp.
• Dried oregano: ½ tsp.
• Cooking time: 6-7 hrs on low or 3-4 hrs on high
• Crockpot size: 6 qt

Storing leftovers in glass meal prep containers can keep them tasty and fresh. These 36-ounce capacity containers are highly rated by users, giving your peppers a longevity boost.

Also, check the nutrition facts per serving to know what you eat. Use these crockpot tips to make your stuffed peppers better each time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Some common mistakes can mess up the outcome when making an easy stuffed pepper recipe. Avoid these blunders for perfect Crockpot stuffed peppers every time.

Pre-cooking Rice Misconceptions

Using the wrong rice type is a big mistake. Always pick long-grain white rice over instant rice. Instant rice turns to mush in the Crockpot, ruining the texture and taste of your dish. Also, make sure you use enough sauce. More sauce can prevent the peppers from becoming dry and burnt, which is not tasty.

Overstuffing Peppers

Another error is stuffing the peppers too much. Packaging in the mix of beef, rice, and seasonings is tempting. But too much stuffing can make the peppers break or cook unevenly. The result? They look and feel less appealing. Remember, the right amount is crucial for this delicious, easy stuffed peppers recipe.

Avoiding these common cooking mistakes lets you enjoy a perfect, easy stuffed pepper recipe every time. This dish will delight you and your loved ones.

Variations and Substitutions

Stuffed bell peppers in the slow cooker are a flexible dish. They cater to diverse tastes and needs. You can pick from various meats or go for vegetarian options. The possibilities are truly endless.

Using Different Types of Meat

Want a meaty filling? Try turkey, pork, or ground chicken. These meats go well with rice or grains like quinoa and couscous. Add your favorite seasonings or spices. It will boost the flavor and keep the dish interesting.

Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Options

Vegetarian stuffed peppers are both tasty and healthy. Fill them with black beans, rice or couscous, and veggies like spinach, kale, or zucchini. Add tomato sauce to keep the stuffing moist. Here’s a nutrition comparison between meat-filled and vegetarian peppers:

WWhether you want meat-based or vegetarian peppers, these recipes are versatile. They can satisfy any craving.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Heat in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes for best results.

Transform leftovers creatively, much like the ideas shared in Transforming Leftover Rotisserie Chicken.

How to Store Leftovers

First, store-cooked stuffed peppers well and ensure they’re covered and cold enough. Here’s what you need to know:

• Let the stuffed peppers cool down for about an hour before you put them in the fridge.
• Use an airtight container for the peppers to keep them from drying out or getting nasty.
• Please put them in the fridge within two hours after cooking to stop bacteria from growing.
• You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

There are a couple of ways to warm up stuffed peppers. Here are step-by-step instructions:

1. In the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F. Put the stuffed peppers on a tray and cover them with foil. Warm them for 20-30 minutes or until they’re hot.
2. In the Microwave: Put a stuffed pepper in a dish that’s safe for the microwave. Cover it with something microwave-safe and turn the power on high for 3 minutes. Check if it’s hot everywhere; if not, heat it for a minute or two more.

Make sure the peppers are hot all over to avoid bacteria.

Can You Freeze Stuffed Peppers?

Yes, you can freeze stuffed peppers to keep them longer. Here’s the right way to do it:

• Wait for the stuffed peppers to cool off completely.
• Wrap each in plastic wrap, then put them in a sealed container or a strong freezer bag.
• Write the date on the container to remember when you froze them.
• They can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

It’s easy to reheat frozen stuffed peppers when you want to eat them. Heat your oven to 350°F, put them on a tray, and cover them with foil. Bake them for 45 minutes to an hour until they’re warm.

What to Serve with Crockpot Stuffed Peppers

Choosing the right sides and drinks can make your Crockpot stuffed peppers shine. Let’s look at some great options to complement your dish. They enhance the meal in extraordinary ways.

Side Dishes Recommendations

Certain side dishes enhance Crockpot stuffed peppers by offering a mix of textures and tastes. Here are our top picks:

1. Mexican Cornbread: This moist, slightly sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory peppers.
2. Sautéed Green Beans: Garlic and olive oil give these beans a crunchy texture, a nice contrast to the peppers.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lemon juice and olive oil create a fresh flavor in this crispy vegetable.
4. Fresh Green Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic dressing offers a refreshing side.
5. Instant Pot Refried Beans: Creamy beans add fiber and protein, making them a great choice.

Pairing with Beverages

Drinks can bring out the best in your stuffed peppers and sides. Here are some pairings to consider:

• Light Red Wine: Choose Pinot Noir or Merlot to complement the peppers’ flavors without overwhelming them.
• Crisp Beer: A cool lager or pale ale counters the richness of the peppers well.
• Iced Tea: Unsweetened, with a lemon wedge, this is a great non-alcoholic choice.
• Sparkling Water: A slice of lime or lemon in chilled sparkling water is refreshing.

Picking the perfect sides and drinks makes your meal with stuffed peppers unforgettable. It’s sure to please everyone.

Conclusion

The Crockpot Stuffed Peppers recipe is easy and nutritious, making meal planning simple. Bell peppers, rich in Vitamins C and A, add health benefits to every bite. They’re also full of fiber, potassium, and folate. Using a crockpot means you can enjoy a hearty meal without much work.

Ground pork, cooked rice, and marinara combine to make a tasty filling. This filling goes well with the sweet and tangy bell peppers. Plus, you can cook it slow for 6-8 hours or fast for 3-4 hours. At just 270 calories per serving, it’s a healthy meal choice.

Adding recipes like this to your cooking routine saves time and helps with meal planning for busy people. Crockpot Stuffed Peppers are flexible and match many side dishes. They’re great for any meal, whether on a busy night or a leisurely weekend dinner.

FAQ

Additional Resources

Slow Cooker Tips and Tricks – Enhance your Crockpot cooking with these expert tips and techniques.

Nutritional Benefits of Bell Peppers – A detailed breakdown of the vitamins, minerals, and health benefits bell peppers offer.