Quick Grilled Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Grilled stuffed peppers are a summertime favorite, offering a delightful combination of smoky char, tender sweetness from the peppers, and savory, well-seasoned filling. This recipe focuses on a quick grilling method using ground beef, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual weekend barbecues. Get ready to enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and sure to impress!

Choosing the Perfect Peppers

The success of your stuffed peppers starts with selecting the right ones. Bell peppers are the most common choice due to their shape, size, and sturdy walls, which hold the filling well.

Color Considerations

While green bell peppers are readily available, consider using a mix of colors, such as red, yellow, and orange, for visual appeal and slightly different flavor profiles. Red and yellow peppers tend to be sweeter than green. Avoid peppers with blemishes or soft spots.

Size and Shape

Look for peppers that are relatively uniform in size and have a stable base so they can stand upright on the grill. Medium to large peppers work best. A slight concave shape on the top is also helpful for holding the filling.

Preparing the Peppers

Before stuffing, the peppers need some prep work. Wash them thoroughly and pat them dry. There are two main methods for preparing them: halving or coring.

Halving the Peppers: This is the quickest method. Cut the peppers lengthwise from stem to bottom. Remove the seeds and membranes carefully. This method allows for more filling per pepper half and faster cooking.

Coring the Peppers: This method involves removing the core from the top, leaving the pepper intact. Carefully cut around the stem with a small knife and pull it out, taking the seeds and membranes with it. This method creates a more traditional stuffed pepper appearance, but it may take a bit longer for the filling to cook through.

Crafting the Flavorful Ground Beef Filling

The filling is where you can truly customize your stuffed peppers. This recipe uses ground beef as a base, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.

Ingredients for a Standout Filling

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (85/15) to minimize grease.
• Aromatic Vegetables: Onions and garlic are essential for building flavor. Dice them finely for even cooking.
• Cooked Rice or Grain: Cooked rice (white, brown, or wild) or quinoa adds bulk and texture to the filling.
• Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes or tomato sauce adds moisture and acidity.
• Beans (Optional): Black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans add protein and fiber.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella cheese adds richness and meltability.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, and garlic powder are great options. Experiment to find your favorite blend.

Cooking the Filling

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, canned tomatoes, beans (if using), and seasonings. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Incorporate Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in about half of the shredded cheese.

Tips for Enhancing the Filling

• Add Heat: For a spicier filling, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
• Use Italian Sausage: Substitute some of the ground beef with Italian sausage for a richer flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil for added freshness.
• Vegetables: Add diced vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots to the filling for extra nutrients and texture.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

Grilling adds a smoky depth of flavor that elevates stuffed peppers to another level. Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, these techniques will ensure perfectly cooked peppers.

Preparing the Grill

• Gas Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
• Charcoal Grill: Light the charcoal and allow it to burn until the coals are covered with gray ash. Arrange the coals for indirect heat by pushing them to one side of the grill.

Grilling the Stuffed Peppers

1. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each pepper half or whole pepper with the prepared ground beef mixture, mounding it slightly on top.

2. Grilling Time: Place the stuffed peppers on the grill grates, away from direct heat (if using a charcoal grill).

3. Cover and Cook: Cover the grill and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the peppers and the heat of the grill.

4. Cheese Melting: During the last 5-10 minutes of grilling, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the stuffed peppers and allow it to melt.

Tips for Successful Grilling

• Grill Basket: Use a grill basket to prevent the peppers from tipping over and spilling the filling.
• Indirect Heat: Indirect heat is crucial for cooking the peppers without burning the filling.
• Check for Doneness: The peppers are done when they are tender and slightly softened. Use a fork to test their tenderness.
• Basting: Brush the peppers with olive oil or melted butter during grilling to keep them moist.

Serving and Enjoying Your Grilled Stuffed Peppers

Once the peppers are grilled to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a side salad, grilled corn on the cob, or a simple coleslaw.
• Sauces: Offer a variety of sauces, such as salsa, hot sauce, or a creamy avocado dressing.
• Make it a Meal: Grilled stuffed peppers are hearty enough to be a main course, especially when served with a side dish.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, oven, or on the grill. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Creative Variations

• Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers: Use ground lamb, feta cheese, olives, and oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
• Mexican Stuffed Peppers: Add black beans, corn, salsa, and Monterey Jack cheese for a Mexican-inspired version.
• Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers: Use a mixture of quinoa, lentils, vegetables, and herbs for a vegetarian option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making grilled ground beef stuffed peppers:

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill them. Add a few extra minutes to the grilling time to ensure they are heated through.

Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, stuffed peppers can be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.

What if I don’t have a grill?

If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the stuffed peppers in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

How do I prevent the peppers from burning on the grill?

Use indirect heat and avoid placing the peppers directly over the flames. You can also brush them with olive oil to help prevent burning.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.