Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious and convenient meal that families can enjoy together. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish. With vibrant colors and hearty flavors, these stuffed peppers not only satisfy hunger but also bring a touch of comfort to your dinner table. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for a special occasion, this dish will impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Versatile Filling: Customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients or spices.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup since everything cooks in the Instant Pot.
• Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This appliance allows for quick cooking under pressure, reducing overall cooking time significantly.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping your ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to prepare these tasty Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers:

For the Peppers

• 6 medium bell peppers (any color)
• 1 Tbsp. or 7g olive oil
• 1 cup or ~100g green onion, diced, divided
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced, divided)

For the Filling

• 1 ¼ lb or 575g lean ground beef
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp. steak seasoning
• 1 ½ tsp. onion powder
• 2 cups or 230g cooked rice
• 2 cups or 360g diced tomatoes
• 2 Tbsp. chopped basil (thyme and parsley)

For Topping (Optional)

• 1/3 cup or 60g mozzarella cheese for topping
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove the cores and seeds. Set them aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Sauté Ingredients

Select the “Sauté” setting on your Instant Pot. Add the olive oil into the bottom of the pot and let it heat for about 1 to 2 minutes. Once hot:
1. Add half of the diced green onions and half of the minced garlic.
2. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef along with Italian seasoning, steak seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for about 5 minutes until browned.

Step 3: Mix in Rice

Press “Cancel” on your Instant Pot. Add in the cooked rice and mix until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Stuff each bell pepper with this mixture.

Step 4: Make Tomato Sauce

For the sauce:
1. Select “Sauté” again on your Instant Pot (no need to wash it).
2. Add remaining green onions and garlic to sauté briefly.
3. Pour in diced tomatoes; bring to simmer.
4. Stir in chopped basil, thyme, and parsley; cook for another minute before pressing “Cancel”.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Place stuffed peppers into the tomato sauce inside your Instant Pot:
– Spoon some sauce over each pepper if desired.
– Lock the lid securely and set vent to “sealing”.
– Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook”, setting timer for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete:
– Carefully perform a quick release of pressure or allow it to release naturally.
– Open lid and sprinkle mozzarella cheese over top of each pepper.
– Close lid (without sealing) for about 2 minutes to melt cheese.

Step 7: Serve

Carefully remove stuffed bell peppers from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Serve hot drizzled with leftover sauce from the pot—enjoy!

How to Serve Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

Serving Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers can be a delightful experience. These colorful peppers are not only visually appealing but also versatile enough to pair with various sides or toppings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes complements the rich flavors of the stuffed peppers.

Top with Avocado

• Sliced or diced avocado adds creaminess and a refreshing contrast to the savory filling of the peppers.

Serve with Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt enhances the dish’s texture and provides a cool, tangy element.

Drizzle with Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy heat, a drizzle of hot sauce can spice up your stuffed peppers and add an extra kick.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for savoring the delicious tomato sauce pooled at the bottom of your plate.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

Perfecting Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose ripe bell peppers: Select firm, bright-colored peppers for optimal flavor and presentation.
• Pre-cook rice: Using already cooked rice saves time and ensures even mixing with other ingredients.
• Don’t overstuff: Leave a little space at the top of each pepper to allow for expansion during cooking.
• Use quality ground beef: Lean ground beef not only reduces grease but also improves the overall taste of your filling.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
• Let them rest: Allow stuffed peppers to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps settle the flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

To round out your meal, consider these side dishes that pair well with Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers. Each option brings its unique flavors and textures that complement this hearty main course.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add sweetness and crunch, enhancing your meal’s nutrition.
3. Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes for an excellent base to soak up any extra sauce from the peppers.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances out the rich stuffing.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients while being easy to prepare.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic side that pairs perfectly with savory stuffed peppers.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Creamy baked sweet potatoes offer a comforting sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory fillings.
8. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide richness that complements the stuffed bell peppers beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Not Prepping the Peppers Properly: Ensure you cut off the tops and remove all seeds and cores from the bell peppers. This allows for even cooking and easier stuffing.

• Overfilling the Peppers: Stuffing the peppers too tightly can cause them to burst during cooking. Fill them comfortably without packing too tightly to avoid a mess.

• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your filling adequately can result in bland stuffed peppers. Always taste your filling before stuffing to ensure it’s flavorful.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Overcooking or undercooking your stuffed peppers can lead to undesirable textures. Follow the recommended cooking times closely for best results.

• Not Using Enough Liquid: The Instant Pot requires liquid to build pressure. Make sure there’s enough sauce or broth in the pot when cooking stuffed peppers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

• You can freeze stuffed peppers for up to 3 months.
• Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Reheating Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place peppers on a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Place one pepper on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a little water added. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers that might help you out!

How do I make vegetarian Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers?

You can replace ground beef with cooked quinoa, beans, or lentils mixed with rice and vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I use different types of meat for my stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or lamb work well. Adjust seasoning according to your choice of meat for best flavor.

How long do Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers take?

The total time is approximately 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time in the Instant Pot.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair well with a simple salad or crusty bread, making for a complete meal that’s satisfying and nutritious.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Stuffed Bell Peppers are not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by changing up the protein or adding different spices. Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends—it’s bound to be a hit!