Budget-Friendly Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe: Affordable Meals for the Family

Transform your dinner into a flavorful and nutritious experience with Stuffed Bell Peppers. Elevate your meal by filling vibrant bell peppers with a delicious mixture of rice, black beans, and cheese. This satisfying dish not only offers a burst of flavors but also provides a wholesome combination of ingredients. Join us in discovering a simple yet delightful recipe that turns bell peppers into a vessel of goodness, perfect for a hearty and nutritious dinner.

Looking for more Vegetarian Family Meals on a Budget? Check out my masterlist here.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for drizzling
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Bell Peppers:
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly drizzle the exteriors with olive oil.
  2. Sauté Aromatics:
    • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped red onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
  3. Add Black Beans and Spices:
    • Stir in the black beans, cooked rice, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Incorporate Vegetables and Cheese:
    • Add corn kernels and diced tomatoes to the mixture. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
  5. Stuff Bell Peppers:
    • Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the rice and black bean mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
  6. Bake in the Oven:
    • Place the stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
  7. Garnish and Serve:
    • Once cooked, remove the stuffed bell peppers from the oven. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
    • Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side, if desired.

Stuffed Bell Peppers are not just a dinner; they’re a nutritious elevation that transforms humble ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful dish. This recipe showcases the versatility of bell peppers as they become a vessel for a delightful mixture of rice, black beans, and cheese. So, savor the wholesome goodness, relish the vibrant flavors, and embrace the satisfaction that comes with each bite. It’s a straightforward and delicious creation that adds a touch of nutritional joy to your dinner table.

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