Save 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.
I enjoy making this recipe when I want a hearty meal that pleases everyone without breaking the bank.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers: 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off, seeds removed
- Onion: 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Ground beef: 1 lb 450 g ground beef (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
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F 190°C.
- Prepare peppers:
- Arrange the bell peppers upright in a baking dish. If needed, slice a thin layer off the bottom so they stand upright.
- Cook beef:
- 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.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add sauce and seasonings:
- 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.
- Fill peppers:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each bell pepper.
- Bake covered:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Bake with cheese:
- Remove foil top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese and bake uncovered for another 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save This recipe always brings my family together around the dinner table, sharing laughs and stories.
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
Nutritional Information
Calories 350 Total Fat 18 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 28 g per serving
Save This easy recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives without compromising flavor.
- → How can I ensure the peppers stand upright while baking?
Slice a thin layer off the bottom of each pepper to create a flat base, allowing them to stand upright securely.
- → What is the purpose of adding Worcestershire sauce?
Worcestershire sauce adds a rich, tangy depth that complements the savory tomato and beef elements.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed peppers in advance and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for best results.
- → Are there gluten-free considerations for this dish?
Ensure the Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free to keep the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What toppings enhance the flavor profile?
Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top, and fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note after baking.