Save to Pinterest 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 quickly became a family favorite thanks to its hearty flavors and ease of preparation.
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
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (115 g)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2:
- Arrange the bell peppers upright in a baking dish. If needed, slice a thin layer off the bottom so they stand upright.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 4:
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Step 5:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 4-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Step 6:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each bell pepper.
- Step 7:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Remove foil, top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for another 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 9:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save to Pinterest Making these peppers together brought the family closer, sharing smiles over a comforting meal.
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/soy content). For gluten-free ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save to Pinterest Serve hot and enjoy a hearty family meal that’s both easy to prepare and delicious.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option without compromising flavor.
- → How do I prevent bell peppers from tipping over during baking?
Slice a thin layer off the bottom of each pepper to create a flat base, helping them stand upright in the baking dish.
- → What cheese works best for topping these peppers?
Cheddar cheese melts well and adds a rich, tangy finish, but other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can also be used.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed peppers in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days.
- → Is there a way to add extra bulk or texture to the filling?
Cooked rice or quinoa can be mixed into the beef and tomato filling to increase heartiness and texture.