Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Why Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort food, but grilling them gives them an extra layer of flavor that you just can’t get from baking. The smoky char from the grill pairs beautifully with the hearty filling, making these peppers a standout dish. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can mix and match fillings to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Grilling stuffed peppers can be a bit tricky—they need to be cooked evenly without falling apart. That’s where the Braize Adjustable Grilling Basket with Removable Handle comes into play. By using the basket with the lid completely removed, you can keep the peppers securely in place, ensuring they don’t tip over and spill their delicious filling. This method allows the peppers to stay upright while still getting perfectly grilled, with no fuss over tipping or uneven cooking.
Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or chicken
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
Preparing the Bell Peppers
Start by prepping your bell peppers. Slice off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Brush the outsides of the peppers with a little olive oil, which will help them char nicely on the grill. Set them aside while you prepare the filling.
Making the Filling
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the ground beef (or turkey/chicken) and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Once the meat is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked rice, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.
Stuffing the Bell Peppers
Spoon the filling into each prepared bell pepper, packing it in tightly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper. The cheese will melt and get nice and bubbly on the grill, adding a deliciously gooey topping to your peppers.
Prepping Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking, if not using a grill basket. A medium heat ensures the peppers cook evenly without burning.
Grilling the Stuffed Bell Peppers
With the lid entirely removed, place the stuffed bell peppers in the Braize Adjustable Grilling Basket, to allow the peppers to sit securely in the basket without tipping over. To avoid burning, set up your grill for indirect cooking by placing the peppers on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct heat. Close the grill lid and cook the peppers for about 20-25 minutes, until they are tender and slightly charred, the cheese is melted and golden, and the meat is cooked through.
Stuffed bell peppers have always been a favorite in my family, but once I started grilling them, they became an absolute hit. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a new dimension to this classic dish, making it even more irresistible. Now, it’s a go-to recipe for any cookout or casual dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the grill and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. These grilled stuffed bell peppers are a complete meal on their own, but you can also serve them with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra juices.
FAQs
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Can I make these stuffed peppers vegetarian?
- Absolutely! Substitute the ground meat with a mix of black beans, corn, and diced mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
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What type of rice works best for this recipe?
- Any type of cooked rice will work, but brown or wild rice adds a nice texture and nuttiness to the filling.
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How do I prevent the peppers from burning?
- Keep the grill at medium heat and check the peppers occasionally. Using a grilling basket also helps ensure even cooking without burning. Additionally, consider using indirect cooking to further prevent burning.
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Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
- Yes! You can make the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the peppers and grill them when you’re ready to eat.
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What other toppings can I add to these stuffed peppers?
- Try adding sour cream, avocado slices, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
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Can I grill the peppers without using a grill basket?
- Yes, you can grill the peppers directly on the grill grates. However, using a grill basket, like the Braize Adjustable Grilling Basket, helps keep the peppers upright and secure, preventing them from tipping over and spilling their delicious filling.
Ready to take your stuffed peppers to the next level?
Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers are a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Fire up the grill and give this Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe a try! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us on social media @CookingWithBraize. We’d love to see how you make this dish your own!