Stuffed Bell Peppers with Beef Mince and Quinoa
A vibrant dish featuring colourful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of beef mince, quinoa, diced vegetables, and cheese. These peppers are baked to tender perfection, resulting in a wholesome and satisfying dinner option that is both nutritious and eye-catching on the plate.
- Total
- 40 min
- Serves
- 3
- Level
- Adventurous
Created with Pantry Bliss
Ingredients
3 servings
- 3 large bell peppers, any colour, tops sliced off and seeds removed
- 300 grams beef mince, fresh
- 150 grams quinoa, rinsed or soaked prior to cooking
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 400 grams diced tomatoes, canned or fresh
- 100 grams cheddar cheese, shredded (reserve some for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for sautéing
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika, smoked for added flavour
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, fresh, for garnish
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 25 min
About this recipe
This recipe is inspired by classic Mediterranean stuffed vegetables, often using rice and various meats. It combines wholesome ingredients while introducing quinoa for a nutritional boost, ensuring a delightful texture and taste. The balance of fresh vegetables and rich cheese harmonise beautifully with seasoned meat, reflecting the charm of rustic homestyle cooking. Could be found enjoyed in both home kitchens and festive dining.
Method
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Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures an even bake for the stuffed peppers.
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Step 2: Cook the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, bring 300 ml of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, a pinch of salt, and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for approximately 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
Do not open the lid while cooking quinoa before the time as it may not cook properly. -
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the beef mince and cook, stirring frequently, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary. Mix in the diced tomatoes, cooked quinoa, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes until well combined.
Ensure the beef is thoroughly cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 75°C. -
Step 4: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the beef and vegetable mixture with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well incorporated to create a flavorful filling.
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Step 5: Stuff the Peppers
Place the hollowed bell peppers upright in a baking dish. Fill each pepper generously with the beef and quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling. Top each stuffed pepper with remaining shredded cheese and sprinkle with chopped parsley for added brightness.
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Step 6: Bake the Peppers
Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Avoid burning by keeping an eye on the cheese during the last few minutes of baking. -
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful blend of flavours!
Tips
- You can add chopped mushrooms or spinach to the filling for extra veggies.
- Substitute beef mince with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use a mix of different cheeses for varied flavours, such as mozzarella or feta.
Equipment
- oven
- baking dish
- medium saucepan
- large skillet
- mixing bowl
- wooden spoon
- sharp knife
- cutting board
Serve it with
Sides
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Garlic Bread
The garlic bread complements the stuffed peppers with its buttery flavour, perfect for soaking up the juices.
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Mixed Green Salad
A light salad enhances the meal with freshness and balance, providing a crunch to the otherwise soft texture.
Goes well with
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Tzatziki Sauce
This refreshing yogurt sauce pairs well, providing acidity and creaminess that balances the richness of the stuffed peppers.
Drinks
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Chilled Lemonade
A refreshing non-alcoholic drink that will cleanse the palate and counterbalance the savoury flavours of the dish.
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Medium-bodied Red Wine
A glass of medium-bodied red wine complements the beef filling and resonates with the Mediterranean theme.
Created by a home cook with Pantry Bliss’s AI recipe creator and shared with the community. Always check recipes for allergens and cook food to safe temperatures.
