Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers Recipe
You’re going to love this Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers recipe for its unbeatable combination of flavor and convenience.
Imagine this: you come home after a long day, and the rich aroma of savory stuffed peppers greets you at the door.
I adore how easy it’s to prepare. You simply mix the ingredients, stuff the peppers, and let your slow cooker do the work.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, the vibrant colors of the peppers make for a stunning presentation at the dinner table.
Trust me, the flavors meld beautifully over hours of slow cooking, leaving you with a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug.
You won’t regret trying this!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers
When you’re ready to whip up some delicious Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers, you’ll want to make sure you have all the right ingredients on hand. This dish isn’t only tasty, but it’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a hearty meal.
Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that can cook itself while you go about your day? Let’s gather everything you need to get started.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 small yellow onions, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 small green bell peppers, tops cut off and cleaned
- 2 (24 ounce) jars pasta sauce
- 1 cup water
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a moment. The ground beef is the star of the show, providing that rich, savory flavor, while the onions and garlic bring a delightful depth to the dish.
Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of green bell peppers; you can easily swap them out for red, yellow, or even orange ones for a sweeter taste. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of peppers you choose.
And when it comes to the pasta sauce, feel free to go for your favorite brand or even homemade if you’re feeling adventurous. Really, the world is your oyster – or should I say pepper?
Just remember to have fun with it, and don’t be afraid to experiment a little. Cooking should be enjoyable, after all!
How to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers
Making Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers is a breeze, and trust me, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar when you serve them up.
First things first, grab your 2 pounds of ground beef and toss it into a large mixing bowl. Add in 2 small diced yellow onions and 2 minced garlic cloves. Here’s where you can really channel your inner chef – mix it all together until it’s well combined. If you’re like me and sometimes forget to wash your hands before cooking, now’s a good time to remember (I can’t be the only one).
Now, let’s get to the fun part – stuffing those peppers. Take your 8 small green bell peppers, which you’ve already prepped by cutting off the tops and cleaning out the insides (good job!). Divide your beef mixture into four equal parts and firmly pack each part into a pepper. It’s like a tasty little surprise waiting to be uncovered.
Once you’ve stuffed them all, you’ll want to grab your 2 (24 ounce) jars of pasta sauce. Pour the remaining sauce into a quart-sized freezer bag, and then add 1 cup of water to the empty pasta jar, swishing it around to get every last bit of sauce – no waste here. Pour that watery goodness into the bag as well and seal it up tight. This is your sauce bag, which will come in handy later.
Now, let’s talk about freezing these delightful peppers. Place your stuffed peppers into a gallon-sized freezer bag, and add the sauce bag. Don’t forget to remove as much air as possible before sealing it up. There you go – they’re ready for the freezer, and you can stash them away for up to three months.
When you’re ready to cook, just thaw them overnight in the fridge. The next day, toss those stuffed peppers into your slow cooker, cover them with the sauce, and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. You’ll be amazed at how the flavors meld together while you go about your day.
And when dinner time rolls around, you’ll have a wholesome, hearty meal waiting for you, all thanks to your earlier efforts. Who knew cooking could be this easy?
Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers Substitutions & Variations
While stuffed peppers are delicious as is, there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen.
If you’re looking to switch things up, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also explore different grains like quinoa or rice for added texture and flavor.
Feeling adventurous? Add some black beans or corn for a southwestern twist. For a vegetarian version, pack the peppers with a mix of beans, veggies, and spices.
Don’t forget about the cheese! Mixing in some shredded cheese or topping them off before serving can elevate your dish.
Finally, experiment with various sauces—barbecue or salsa can bring an exciting new flavor profile to your stuffed peppers.
Enjoy your culinary journey!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a hearty dish on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal.
I love serving them with a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens complements the rich flavors of the peppers.
Garlic bread is another favorite; it’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. If you’re in the mood for something warm, a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully, adding a comforting touch.
For a lighter option, consider some roasted vegetables, like zucchini and carrots, which bring brightness to the table.
These sides not only balance the meal but also make it feel complete and satisfying. Enjoy your delicious dinner!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your slow cooker stuffed peppers turn out perfectly, it’s essential to remember a few key tips.
First, don’t skip the browning step for the beef and onions; it adds depth of flavor. When selecting your bell peppers, try to find ones that are all similar in size for even cooking.
If you want to add some extra nutrition, consider mixing in cooked quinoa or rice with the beef mixture. When it comes to sauce, feel free to experiment with different flavors or add herbs and spices for a personal touch.
Finally, if you’re freezing your peppers, label your bags with the date so you can enjoy them at their best.
Happy cooking!