Pin it A budget-friendly twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, these bell peppers are filled with savory beef and tomato sauce, topped with melty cheese, and baked to perfection. Perfect for a satisfying, wallet-friendly family dinner.
This recipe has become a staple in my home because it brings the comfort of a Sloppy Joe with a healthy veggie twist that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers: 4 large (any color), tops cut off, seeds removed
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g), may substitute ground turkey or chicken
- Tomato sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp (gluten-free if needed)
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup (115 g) shredded
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- 375°F (190°C)
- Prepare peppers:
- Arrange bell peppers upright in baking dish, slice thin layer off bottom if needed for stability
- Cook beef:
- In large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned about 5-6 minutes, drain excess fat
- Cook onion and garlic:
- Add to skillet and cook 2-3 minutes until softened
- Add sauce and seasonings:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper; simmer 4-5 minutes to thicken
- Fill peppers:
- Spoon beef mixture evenly into each bell pepper
- Bake covered:
- Cover baking dish with foil and bake 25 minutes
- Add cheese:
- Remove foil, top peppers with shredded cheddar cheese, bake uncovered for 8-10 minutes until cheese melts
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, serve hot
Pin it This meal has brought my family together on busy nights, turning simple ingredients into a beloved dinner tradition.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken. Add cooked rice or quinoa to the filling for extra bulk. Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Large skillet, baking dish, knife and cutting board, measuring spoons and cups, aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and soy (Worcestershire sauce & check label for gluten or soy content). Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Pin it These stuffed peppers offer a delicious and wholesome dinner option that’s sure to please the whole family.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option without compromising flavor.
- → How do I ensure the bell peppers stand upright while baking?
Trim a thin slice off the bottom of each pepper to create a flat base that helps them stand upright securely in the baking dish.
- → What spices contribute to the flavor of the filling?
Chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a touch of brown sugar create a balanced, savory, and slightly smoky filling.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate before baking when ready.
- → What sides complement this dish well?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables provide fresh contrast and balance to the savory, cheesy stuffed peppers.
- → Can I add grains to the filling?
Yes, cooked rice or quinoa can be folded into the beef mixture to add texture and enhance satiety.