My Own Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
I began making these about 22 years ago when a friend in nursing school used to feed me regularly and everyone loved her stuffed peppers. Prior to that the taste of a cooked green pepper made me RUN! I have, over the years, adapted her recipe into something entirely different though very loveable! You can use red peppers as well though my favorite is green. These are a comfort staple for me and very nutritious. They are wonderful to make and freeze as well.
I began making these about 22 years ago when a friend in nursing school used to feed me regularly and everyone loved her stuffed peppers. Prior to that the taste of a cooked green pepper made me RUN! I have, over the years, adapted her recipe into something entirely different though very loveable! You can use red peppers as well though my favorite is green. These are a comfort staple for me and very nutritious. They are wonderful to make and freeze as well.
- Carbohydrate 18.8615008333333 g
- Cholesterol 53.6750971166667 mg
- Fat 15.5699506666667 g
- Fiber 2.81504174482822 g
- Protein 15.4376474881667 g
- Saturated Fat 5.93970209168333 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (292g)
- Sodium 67.5214813166667 mg
- Sugar 16.0464590885051 g
- Trans Fat 2.38508788083333 g
- Calories 277 calories
Step-by-step
- Wash peppers, cut tops off and remove core.
- Drain and chop stewed tomatoes, reserving liquid.
- In a large mixing bowl combine ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, 1/2 of the chopped stewed drained tomatoes, salt and pepper.
- Stuff peppers with this mixture and sit in the crockpot standing up.
- Trim bottoms of any especially wonky peppers though they should stand and up packed nicely.
- Combine tomato soup, chili sauce, the rest of the chopped tomatoes and reserved stewed tomato liquid.
- Check the consistency as you may not need all of the reserved tomato liquid.
- Pour sauce over peppers.
- Cook on low 6-8 hours or until tender. This can take less or more time as crockpots differ wildly.
My Comfort Food: Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers
For years, the mere thought of a cooked green pepper sent shivers down my spine. Then, during my nursing school days, a dear friend introduced me to her incredible stuffed peppers. One bite, and my aversion vanished, replaced by an instant love affair. Over two decades later, this recipe remains a cherished staple in my kitchen, a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and a touch of culinary evolution. It's become so much more than just a recipe; it's a warm hug on a chilly evening, a delicious reminder of friendship, and a comforting tradition that's been passed down (albeit slightly modified!) through the years. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. While green peppers are my personal preference, feel free to experiment with red ones – the results are equally delightful. What started as a treasured recipe from a friend has become a culinary cornerstone for my family, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend cooking session. Its versatility extends beyond the dinner table; these stuffed peppers freeze beautifully, making them an ideal make-ahead meal for those hectic periods when time is of the essence. I've often made a big batch, frozen half, and enjoyed delicious home-cooked meals for weeks to come. This is particularly helpful during the holiday season when our schedules tend to be more unpredictable, or when I'm travelling and need a comforting meal waiting for me at home. The best part is that it's a truly wholesome dish, filled with flavor and nutritional benefits. It's a recipe that embodies both convenience and healthy eating, and one I frequently utilize in my meal planning. I even find myself adapting this recipe for my family and friends, watching with satisfaction as the recipe evolves to suit each individual's taste, becoming a small taste of home for those I love.
Why I Love This Recipe:
- Ease and Convenience: The slow cooker does all the work, requiring minimal hands-on time. It's perfect for busy individuals or anyone looking for a fuss-free cooking experience.
- Flavor and Versatility: The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and tangy tomato sauce creates a truly satisfying flavor profile. You can easily adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Healthy and Nutritious: This recipe is packed with vegetables and lean protein, making it a wholesome meal option.
- Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly: The delicious slow-cooked stuffed peppers can be frozen for future meals, which makes it an ideal time-saving strategy. This comes in particularly handy during long work weeks or travels.
- Sentimental Value: It's a recipe with a story, a culinary reminder of friendship and the simple pleasures of good food and good company. The memories associated with this dish truly make it special.
This recipe is so much more than just a collection of ingredients; it's a culinary journey, a story shared through food. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and the enduring joy of sharing a delicious meal. It's a taste of home, wherever home might be.
