Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers have become one of those comforting staples in my kitchen that always bring a little warmth to our family dinners. There’s something so satisfying about tender peppers bursting with a savory mix of rice, meat, and spices, slowly cooked to perfection while you go about your day. Growing up in a small English town, my mum and grandmother often made comforting dishes that felt like a hug on a plate—and these stuffed peppers capture that same feeling for me now, especially on busy weeknights when I want something both homemade and hands-off. If you’ve been looking for a recipe that’s flavorful, forgiving, and family-friendly, this one might just become your new go-to.
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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
What makes these Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers stand out is how effortlessly they transform simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. First, the slow cooker does the heavy lifting, softening the peppers and melding flavors without any fuss. I love that because, as a busy mom, I can prep in the morning and come back to a delicious dinner—no last-minute scrambling required. Second, the recipe is flexible; you can swap ground beef for turkey or even try a vegetarian version with beans or lentils. Lastly, the dish is a crowd-pleaser, with veggies and protein wrapped into one colorful bite, perfect for little ones who, like mine, often prefer food they can dip or pick at.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially the fresh bell peppers. I always hunt for peppers that are firm, glossy, and vibrant—they hold up better during slow cooking and taste sweeter when done. For the filling, I lean on a mix of ground meat, rice, and fresh herbs, which reminds me of afternoons spent watching my grandmother chop herbs for her Sunday roasts. If you want to switch things up, cooked quinoa works beautifully instead of rice, and you can add your favorite cheese toward the end for a melty finish.
- 4 large bell peppers (any color, tops cut off and seeds removed)
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 350 per stuffed pepper
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
Ultimate Comfort Food Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe That Melts in Your Mouth
Learn how to make delicious Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially the fresh bell peppers. I always hunt for peppers that are firm, glossy, and vibrant—they hold up better during slow cooking and taste sweeter when done. For the filling, I lean on a mix of ground meat, rice, and fresh herbs, which reminds me of afternoons spent watching my grandmother chop herbs for her Sunday roasts. If you want to switch things up, cooked quinoa works beautifully instead of rice, and you can add your favorite cheese toward the end for a melty finish.
- 4 large bell peppers (any color, tops cut off and seeds removed)
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef or turkey, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. This reminds me of the many times I’d stand beside my mum, stirring fillings for pies or pasties—simple, hands-on comfort food.
- Stuff each bell pepper generously with the meat and rice mixture. Don’t pack them too tightly, or the filling might become dense after cooking.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in your slow cooker. If they don’t stand easily, tuck in some extra tomato sauce or a few loose pepper pieces to stabilize them.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The peppers should be tender but not mushy, and the filling cooked through.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle cheese over the tops if using. Cover again to let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil just before serving for a bright, fresh touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Prepare your bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef or turkey, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. This reminds me of the many times I’d stand beside my mum, stirring fillings for pies or pasties—simple, hands-on comfort food.
- Stuff each bell pepper generously with the meat and rice mixture. Don’t pack them too tightly, or the filling might become dense after cooking.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in your slow cooker. If they don’t stand easily, tuck in some extra tomato sauce or a few loose pepper pieces to stabilize them.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The peppers should be tender but not mushy, and the filling cooked through.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle cheese over the tops if using. Cover again to let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil just before serving for a bright, fresh touch.
Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Getting these stuffed peppers just right is about some thoughtful little details, which I’ve learned through trial, error, and years of cooking with my family. The slow cooker is forgiving, but a few pointers can elevate the dish from good to memorable.
- Choose firm bell peppers that aren’t too large or too small—they cook more evenly and hold the filling well.
- Cook your rice ahead of time; leftover rice works perfectly and keeps the filling light.
- Don’t overfill the peppers—leave a bit of space so the filling can expand slightly without bursting the pepper walls.
- If you prefer a little more moisture, add a splash of broth or extra tomato sauce to the slow cooker base to keep peppers juicy.
- For a vegetarian twist, swap meat for cooked lentils or a mix of quinoa and black beans—my daughter loves this version, especially with extra cheese!
- Resist the urge to lift the slow cooker lid too often; the sealed environment is key for tender peppers.
With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe Learn more: Ground Turkey and Peppers Delight
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions—from casual weeknight dinners to relaxed weekend lunches. I often serve it when friends drop by unexpectedly because it’s impressive without being fussy. Presentation is simple but effective: a colorful pepper on each plate brightens the table and invites conversation.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Try roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, for a wholesome side.
- For a heartier meal, offer crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra juices.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress and comfort. My kids love dipping their peppers in ketchup, which always brings a smile to my face—food is meant to be joyful, after all.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish. I find that these peppers reheat beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep or busy days when cooking from scratch feels overwhelming.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to avoid drying out the peppers.
- If reheating in the oven, cover with foil and warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Adding a splash of broth or water before reheating helps restore moisture and keeps the filling tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers?
The main ingredients for Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers?
The total time to make Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers ahead of time?
Yes, Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
I hope these Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers bring a little extra warmth and ease to your kitchen, just as they do in mine. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes the best meals are the ones that let us slow down, enjoy the process, and share good food with the ones we love. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it goes and any tweaks you discover along the way.
