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 love making this recipe because it brings a new flair to the traditional Sloppy Joe and my family enjoys the combination of bell peppers and hearty filling.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 4 large bell peppers (any color) tops cut off seeds removed, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (may substitute ground turkey or chicken)
- Sauce & Seasonings: 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free if needed), 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Toppings: 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Step 2:
- Arrange the bell peppers upright in a baking dish If needed slice a thin layer off the bottom so they stand upright
- Step 3:
- 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
- Step 4:
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet cook for 2-3 minutes until softened
- Step 5:
- 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
- Step 6:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each bell pepper
- Step 7:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes
- Step 8:
- Remove foil top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese and bake uncovered for another 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly
- Step 9:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired Serve hot
Save This recipe has become a family favorite especially on busy weeknights when we want something wholesome and easy to prepare
Notes
For a lighter version substitute ground turkey or chicken Add cooked rice or quinoa to the filling for extra bulk Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days
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 Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies
Save This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and can easily be customized to your taste preferences
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives while maintaining flavor and texture.
- → How do I keep the bell peppers upright during baking?
Slice a thin layer off the bottom of each bell pepper to create a flat base that helps them stand upright in the baking dish.
- → What spices enhance the beef filling?
Chili powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of brown sugar balance the savory tomato sauce and seasoned meat perfectly.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, provided you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and check other ingredient labels carefully.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the stuffed peppers in advance and refrigerate before baking to save time on busy days.