Quick Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Quick Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 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 (fresh or frozen); 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy Recipes

I absolutely love preparing Quick Stuffed Bell Peppers for a weekday dinner! They are not only colorful and inviting but also incredibly versatile. I can easily switch up the filling based on what I have on hand. Enjoying them fresh out of the oven, packed with flavors, is a personal favorite of mine. Plus, they come together in under an hour, making them a perfect option for busy nights. I can't wait for you to try this simple yet satisfying recipe.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-05T15:45:27.765Z

When I first made these Quick Stuffed Bell Peppers, I was surprised at how easy they were! I decided to use a mixture of quinoa, black beans, and spices as the filling, which turned out to be a game changer. The peppers absorbed all the flavors beautifully, and I couldn’t believe how vibrant they looked on the plate.

One key tip I learned along the way is to slightly pre-cook the bell peppers before stuffing them. This not only softens them for easier eating but also allows them to soak up the juices from the filling while baking. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful and visually appealing presentation
Healthy and satisfying filled with nutritious ingredients
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Bell Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for your stuffed peppers, look for large, firm ones that can stand upright. You can choose a single color for a uniform look or a mix for a vibrant presentation. I recommend avoiding peppers with blemishes or soft spots as they may compromise the texture. The sweetness of the peppers pairs beautifully with the savory filling, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

If you're looking for a twist, use poblano peppers for a slightly spicier version. They provide a smoky taste that works wonderfully with the hearty quinoa filling. Just keep in mind that their shape is different, which may require adjusting the amount of filling used.

Perfecting Your Quinoa Filling

The base of the filling, quinoa, not only adds protein but also acts as a sponge for flavors. Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness that the outer coating, known as saponin, might impart. Cook the quinoa in vegetable or chicken broth for added depth. Follow a simple ratio of 1 cup quinoa to 2 cups liquid and cook until all the liquid is absorbed and the grains appear fluffy.

Feel free to experiment with the filling by adding other ingredients you might have. Chopped spinach or kale can heighten the nutritional profile, while diced onions will add a touch of sweetness. Just ensure that any extras are either cooked or finely chopped to promote even cooking and texture.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

Once your stuffed bell peppers are out of the oven and cooled slightly, they make an excellent centerpiece for any meal. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of lime juice to elevate the flavors further. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a wholesome dinner experience.

If you have leftovers, store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They reheat well in the microwave or oven; just ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. You can also freeze them before or after baking; just remember to use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date.

Ingredients

To prepare these delicious stuffed bell peppers, gather the following ingredients:

Stuffed Bell Peppers Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stuffed bell peppers:

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. If desired, lightly steam them for about 5 minutes to soften.

Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper generously with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Top with shredded cheese if using.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Add a splash of water to the bottom of the dish to help steam the peppers. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy these vibrant and tasty stuffed bell peppers as a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can also experiment with different fillings like ground turkey or lentils for added variety.

Ingredient Substitutions

If quinoa isn’t available, you can substitute it with rice or farro, both of which provide a hearty base for the filling. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure they’re tender. For a gluten-free option, stick with quinoa or even use lentils, which add protein and a distinct texture.

For dairy-free versions, omit the cheese entirely or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be a great addition to give a cheesy flavor without the dairy. This flexibility allows you to craft the recipe according to dietary preferences while maintaining rich flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to scale up or down. If you're expecting guests, feel free to double the filling and prepare an equal number of peppers. Just ensure your baking dish is large enough to accommodate them without crowding. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess, which is not what we're aiming for.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, you can easily halve the recipe. Prepare the filling as directed, but only stuff one or two peppers. The remaining filling can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days and easily repurposed in salads or as a filling for tacos.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your filling turns out too dry, consider adding a bit of vegetable broth or diced tomatoes to moisten it before stuffing the peppers. On the other hand, if it seems too wet, simply let it rest for a few minutes to absorb excess moisture or add a bit more quinoa to balance it out.

For peppers that are too crunchy after baking, pre-steaming them for a few minutes, as mentioned in the preparation step, ensures they soften adequately without losing their vibrant color. Keeping an eye on them while baking for the right amount of time is key to achieving that perfect tender-crisp texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! You can use rice, ground meat, or even tofu. Just ensure the filling is pre-cooked before stuffing.

→ How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat well in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Yes! Assemble the stuffed peppers but don’t bake them. Freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.