Description
Quinoa & Beef Stuffed Red Bell Peppers with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients
4 large red bell peppers, halved and seeded
1/2 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Bell Peppers: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice bell peppers in half lengthwise, remove seeds, and place on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and roast for 10 minutes.
Cook the Filling: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in cooked quinoa, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
Stuff the Peppers: Fill each roasted pepper half with the quinoa and beef mixture. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake: Place the stuffed peppers back in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the tops are slightly golden.
Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Remove peppers from the oven and drizzle generously with balsamic glaze.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 310 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your quinoa is cooked and cooled. While the peppers roast, prepare the filling. Use a large skillet to brown the beef thoroughly, breaking it into small crumbles. After mixing in the quinoa and seasoning, taste and adjust salt and pepper before stuffing. When filling the pepper halves, press the mixture down lightly to create a hearty portion. For the final bake, watch for the cheese to melt and turn a light golden brown, which indicates they are perfectly cooked.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette. For a heartier dinner, serve alongside roasted asparagus or garlic bread. To elevate the presentation, spoon a small pool of extra balsamic glaze on the plate before placing the pepper on top, and sprinkle with fresh herbs just before serving.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish involves roasting halved red bell peppers, then filling them with a savory mixture of sautéed ground beef, onions, garlic, and cooked quinoa. The stuffed peppers are topped with Parmesan cheese, baked until golden, and finished with a drizzle of sweet-tangy balsamic glaze and fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat substitute work well. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the peppers up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
My balsamic glaze is very thick. How do I drizzle it?
Warm the glaze briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to thin it slightly, making it easier to drizzle artistically.
Is the initial roasting of the peppers necessary?
Yes, this short pre-roast softens the peppers slightly, ensuring they become perfectly tender without overcooking the filling.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overfilling the pepper halves, as the filling can spill over and make a mess in your oven.
- Do not skip pre-roasting the peppers, or they will be too crunchy.
- Ensure your cooked quinoa is not too wet, as excess moisture can make the filling soggy.
- Resist the urge to add the balsamic glaze before baking, as the high heat can cause it to burn and become bitter.
Conclusion
These Quinoa & Beef Stuffed Red Bell Peppers are a nutritious, flavorful, and visually impressive dinner option. Combining protein-packed beef and quinoa with sweet peppers and a rich balsamic glaze creates a balanced meal that is sure to satisfy. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and master this delicious, healthy recipe for any night of the week.