Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Greek Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful twist on a classic stuffed pepper recipe. The combination of ground beef or turkey, cherry tomatoes, and Mediterranean spices like oregano brings out a robust taste. These peppers are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a great low-carb, gluten-free option. The stuffing is simple yet full of flavor, and the bell peppers themselves offer a slight sweetness and crunch that complements the savory filling. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for a filling, nutritious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 4 large bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and dried oregano, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release some of their juices.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Arrange the halved and seeded bell peppers in a baking dish, cut side up.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the ground meat and vegetable mixture, pressing it down gently to pack it in.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly.
- Serve the stuffed peppers hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of feta cheese, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 35-40 minutes
- Total time: 50-55 minutes
Variations
- Add Feta Cheese: For an authentic Greek touch, crumble some feta cheese over the top of the stuffed peppers before baking.
- Swap the Meat: Use ground lamb for a more traditional Greek flavor, or try ground chicken for a leaner option.
- Add Olives: Black or Kalamata olives would make a great addition to the filling for a briny, Mediterranean twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Use quinoa or couscous with sautéed vegetables instead of meat for a vegetarian version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, lamb, or chicken as alternatives to beef, depending on your preference.
Are Greek Stuffed Peppers gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are refrigerated.
Can I freeze Greek Stuffed Peppers?
Yes, Greek Stuffed Peppers can be frozen before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Can I add rice to the filling?
Yes, cooked rice or quinoa can be added to the filling for extra texture and to make the dish more filling.
How do I know when the peppers are done?
The peppers are done when they are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork. The filling should be cooked through and lightly browned on top.
Can I make these peppers spicier?
Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the filling for a spicy kick.
Can I use larger peppers for this recipe?
Yes, larger bell peppers work fine, but make sure to adjust the baking time to ensure they cook thoroughly.
How do I prevent the peppers from getting soggy?
Make sure to seed the peppers well and avoid overfilling them with the meat mixture. Also, covering the dish with foil while baking helps keep the peppers from becoming too soft.
Can I serve Greek Stuffed Peppers with a side dish?
Yes, you can serve these peppers with a side of Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of tzatziki sauce for added flavor.
Conclusion
Greek Stuffed Peppers offer a satisfying and nutritious meal that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the comforting nature of stuffed peppers. With the option to modify the filling to suit your preferences, this dish is a versatile favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, Greek Stuffed Peppers are sure to be a hit.
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Greek Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Greek Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish filled with savory ground meat, cherry tomatoes, and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, these stuffed peppers are low-carb, gluten-free, and easy to customize. They’re a hearty, satisfying meal that combines the richness of Greek cuisine with the comforting appeal of stuffed peppers.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
4 large bell peppers, halved and seeded
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
-
Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
-
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and dried oregano, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release some of their juices.
-
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
-
Arrange the halved and seeded bell peppers in a baking dish, cut side up.
-
Stuff each bell pepper with the ground meat and vegetable mixture, pressing it down gently to pack it in.
-
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
-
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly.
-
Serve the stuffed peppers hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of feta cheese, if desired.
Notes
Add Feta Cheese: Crumble feta cheese over the top before baking for an authentic Greek flavor.
Swap the Meat: Use ground lamb for a more traditional Greek taste, or try ground chicken for a leaner option.
Add Olives: Black or Kalamata olives add a briny, Mediterranean twist to the filling.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with quinoa or couscous and sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek