How to Make the Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers

Making the perfect stuffed bell peppers comes down to a few key techniques that bring out the best in flavor and texture. First, it’s important to cook the peppers just right. If you’re opting for oven-baked stuffed peppers, pre-cook the filling slightly to ensure the peppers don’t get too soggy. However, grilling the peppers on a Char-Griller Flat Iron Griddle adds a smoky depth that’s hard to beat, creating a slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside tender. When it comes to the stuffing, be sure to use a flavorful combination of meats, grains, or veggies with plenty of seasoning to balance out the pepper’s natural sweetness. For meal prep, make sure the filling is cooked in advance so all you have to do is stuff and grill or bake, making these stuffed bell peppers an easy, go-to recipe throughout the week. Whether you're using the oven or the grill, these tips ensure your stuffed peppers are packed with flavor and perfect texture every time.


Healthy vs. Comfort Food: How to Customize Stuffed Bell Peppers for Any Diet

Stuffed bell peppers are incredibly versatile, easily customizable to fit any dietary preference without sacrificing flavor. For a healthy stuffed bell peppers option, you can load them with lean proteins like chicken or turkey, along with plenty of veggies and quinoa or brown rice to keep things light and nutrient-dense. If you're following a keto diet, opt for keto stuffed peppers by using cauliflower rice or a low-carb grain substitute, and filling them with ground beef or sausage for a filling, low-carb meal. On the other hand, if you’re craving some comfort food, stick with traditional fillings like seasoned beef, rice, and melted cheese for that satisfying, hearty bite. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free stuffed bell peppers are a great choice—simply ensure the grains and seasonings you use are gluten-free, and you’re good to go. No matter your preference, stuffed bell peppers are an adaptable dish that can easily shift between comfort food recipes and healthy meal options to fit any diet.

Best Proteins for Stuffed Bell Peppers

When it comes to making the perfect stuffed bell peppers, choosing the right protein is key to balancing flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here are the best protein options for your stuffed peppers:

  • Beef: Rich and hearty, beef-stuffed peppers provide a satisfying, savory bite that pairs beautifully with smoky seasoning and a charred grill finish.
  • Chicken: For a leaner option, chicken-stuffed peppers are juicy and absorb marinades and spices effortlessly, offering a lighter, but equally flavorful alternative.
  • Plant-Based: For a vegetarian twist, stuffed peppers filled with quinoa, black beans, or lentils deliver a high-protein, fiber-rich option that’s just as satisfying as the meat-filled varieties.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Serves:
3
Skill:
Beginner
Method:
Griddled
Food:
Pork

Ingredients


How many people are you serving?

3

  • Main

Get ready for a hearty, flavor-packed meal with just the right balance of smoky, cheesy, and savory goodness! In this episode of our BBQ 101 series, we’re making Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Peppers on the Char-Griller Flat Iron Griddle. With its wide, even cooking surface, the Flat Iron makes it easy to char the peppers, brown the sausage, and melt the cheese to perfection.

Instructions


  1. 01

    Slice the bell peppers in half and remove the seeds and veins.

  2. 02

    Preheat the griddle to medium-low heat. Place the peppers cut-side down, close the lid, and cook for about 2 minutes before flipping. Continue this process for approximately 10 minutes or until the peppers reach your desired softness.

  3. 03

    Remove the peppers from the griddle and add the sausage. Cook until browned.

  4. 04

    Once the sausage is browned, stir in the rice and half of the cheese. Cook until the cheese begins to melt, ensuring everything is well combined.

  5. 05

    Return the peppers to the griddle, cut-side up. Spoon marinara sauce into each pepper, then fill with the sausage, rice, and cheese mixture. Top with an additional spoonful of marinara and the remaining cheese. Close the lid and cook until the cheese is melted.

  6. 06

    Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the griddle and serve hot.