Roasted Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Roasted Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 small red onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Roasted Stuffed Bell Peppers as they never fail to impress my family and friends. The colorful peppers are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor and nutrients. I enjoy experimenting with different fillings like quinoa, beans, and vegetables, making each batch unique. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the peppers and brings out all the deliciousness of the fillings. Each bite feels like a warm hug, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:06:36.868Z

While making these Roasted Stuffed Bell Peppers, I tried a mix of spices that completely transformed the traditional recipe. Adding smoked paprika and cumin not only gave the dish a beautiful aroma but also a depth of flavor that was hard to resist. Each pepper comes alive with the vibrant filling!

I also learned that pre-cooking the filling slightly helps meld the flavors together and ensures everything is perfectly cooked by the time the peppers are roasted. Trust me, these little tricks elevate the dish to a whole new level!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and hearty fillings make it a feast for the eyes and the tummy.
Versatile recipe that allows for endless variations with different veggies and grains.
A comforting dish that's perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

      

Choosing the Right Peppers

When it comes to choosing bell peppers for this recipe, opt for large peppers that are firm and glossy to the touch. Each pepper should have a vibrant color indicating freshness. If you prefer a sweetness in your dish, yellow and red peppers are excellent choices, as they have higher sugar content compared to green peppers. Additionally, consider different colors not just for flavor, but for the visual appeal as well, as the variety creates a beautiful presentation when served.

If you're looking for a bit of spice, feel free to mix in some poblano or jalapeño peppers. Just remember that these will increase the heat of your dish, so adjust the quantity according to your taste preference. I personally love the combination of sweet and spicy for a more dynamic flavor profile!

Customizing Your Filling

The filling for these stuffed peppers is wonderfully versatile. While the combination of quinoa, black beans, and corn is nutritious and delicious, you can easily swap out quinoa for brown rice or couscous for different flavors and textures. For added protein, try incorporating ground turkey or tofu, seasoning it similarly to the beans. Just ensure any raw meats are fully cooked before being added to the filling to avoid food safety issues.

Vegetables also play a crucial role in the filling, adding moisture and flavor. Feel free to add diced zucchini, spinach, or even some chopped tomatoes for a fresher taste. Sauté these ingredients briefly before mixing them with your main filling components to intensify their flavors.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to make the preparation smooth and easy!

For the Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels
1 small red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you're just a few steps away from a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect roasted stuffed bell peppers.

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers, remove the seeds, and arrange them upright in a baking dish.

Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, red onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly mixed.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper, pressing it down gently. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the filling.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the tops are slightly golden.

Let the peppers cool slightly before serving. They make a delightful centerpiece to any meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling to your liking by adding cooked ground meat, different vegetables, or even rice instead of quinoa for a different texture and taste.

Storing Leftovers

Once you’ve enjoyed your stuffed peppers, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes them great for meal prep; simply reheat them in the microwave or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which should take about 10-15 minutes. If you’re looking to freeze them, wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When reheating frozen stuffed peppers, it's best to let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This ensures they heat evenly. If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat them directly from the freezer but be aware that this will take considerably longer, about 30-40 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Serving Suggestions

Roasted stuffed bell peppers can be served as a standalone meal, but they pair wonderfully with a light side salad or a zesty avocado salsa for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top can add a creamy texture that balances the savory filling. I also enjoy serving them with a side of whole grain bread to soak up any juices left on the plate.

For a festive touch, garnish your stuffed peppers with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also enhance the flavor profile of the dish. You could even sprinkle some hot sauce over the top for an extra kick!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance. Just cover them and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

Stuffed peppers pair well with a simple salad or a side of crusty bread. You can also serve them with salsa or guacamole.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed peppers either before or after baking. Just ensure they are well-wrapped so they don’t get freezer burn.

→ How long do they take to cook?

They take about 30 minutes to bake plus the 20 minutes of prep, making for a total of 50 minutes cooking time.