Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers

Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers are a fantastic weeknight dinner option that combines convenience and flavor in one dish. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, making them perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy dinner or a potluck, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and minimal cooking effort, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and cheese creates an irresistible flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
• Versatile Filling Options: Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, like different cheeses or extra veggies.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, these stuffed peppers are a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowl
• Metal trivet
• Knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker saves time by pressure cooking your stuffed peppers quickly while infusing them with flavor.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all your filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Metal Trivet: Using a trivet allows the stuffed peppers to steam properly while preventing them from sitting directly in the water.

Ingredients

• 4 or 5 medium-large bell peppers (any color*)
• ½ pound lean ground beef (93% or 90% lean, or ground turkey)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice (or cooked white rice)
• ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 15 ounce can diced tomatoes (drain off most of the juices)
• 8 ounce can tomato sauce (divided)
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella or a combination, divided)

How to Make Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Slice the tops off of the bell peppers. Use a knife and/or your fingers to remove the membranes and any seeds. If they won’t stand up on their own, slice a tiny bit off of the bottom.

Step 2: Optional Browning of Ground Beef

You can brown the ground beef in your Instant Pot using the Saute function. If desired, add the chopped onion to sauté along with the beef. Crumble as it cooks until browned, then transfer to a large bowl and wash out the Instant Pot.

Step 3: Mix Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Ground beef (either browned or uncooked).
2. Cooked rice.
3. Chopped onion.
4. Diced tomatoes.
5. ¼ cup of tomato sauce.
6. Italian seasoning.
7. Garlic powder.
8. Salt.
9. Black pepper.
10. Half of the cheese.

Stir well to mix everything together. Refrigerate the remaining cheese for later use.

Step 4: Set Up Instant Pot

Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of your Instant Pot inner pot (use 1½ cups for an 8-quart pot). Place the metal trivet inside.

Step 5: Stuff Peppers with Filling

Spoon the mixture into each prepared bell pepper until just full; do not pack too tightly. Place them on the trivet in your Instant Pot and top each pepper with about a tablespoon of tomato sauce.

Step 6: Pressure Cook Peppers

Close the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to sealing position. If you did not brown the meat, set pressure cooking time to 16 minutes at high pressure; if you did brown it, set it for only 8 minutes.

Step 7: Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the steam release valve to venting position using a long spoon handle. Wait until all steam is released before opening the lid.

Step 8: Add Cheese Topping

Check that each pepper’s center has reached at least 165°F using an instant-read thermometer. If they need more time, pressure cook them for additional minutes as needed. Top each pepper with remaining cheese and cover briefly to melt before serving!

How to Serve Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers

Serving Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers can be a delightful experience, as these colorful and flavorful dishes not only taste great but also look appealing on the plate. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed with a light vinaigrette can add freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with parmesan, croutons, and creamy dressing offers a rich contrast.

Accompany with Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that complements the flavors of the stuffed peppers.
• Guacamole: The richness of guacamole pairs well with the spice of the filling, providing a creamy texture.

Include Flavorful Grains

• Quinoa: Serve quinoa as a side for added protein and texture. It can be flavored with herbs for extra taste.
• Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with lemon zest or herbs can make an excellent pairing.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers

Perfecting your Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and vegetables enhance flavor and texture in your dish.
• Control the Cooking Time: Adjust cooking time based on whether you brown the meat first; this helps achieve ideal tenderness.
• Avoid Overpacking: Fill the peppers without packing them too tightly to ensure even cooking throughout.
• Check Temperature: Always confirm that the center reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stuffed peppers to rest a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers can elevate your meal. Here’s a list of sides that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast to the soft stuffed peppers.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds depth and color to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only looks appealing but also adds vitamins and minerals.
4. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf infused with herbs offers an aromatic addition that pairs well with the stuffed peppers.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings in tangy flavors, balancing out the richness of the stuffing.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide hearty satisfaction alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Phrase: Not Preparing the Peppers Properly – Ensure you slice off the tops and remove seeds. If peppers can’t stand, trim the bottoms slightly for stability.
• Bold Phrase: Overpacking the Filling – Filling the peppers too tightly can lead to uneven cooking. Spoon in the filling gently, leaving some space at the top.
• Bold Phrase: Ignoring Cooking Times – Cooking times vary if you brown the ground beef first. Follow specified times for either method to ensure proper cooking.
• Bold Phrase: Skipping Seasoning Adjustments – Taste your filling before stuffing! Adjust seasonings as needed to enhance flavors.
• Bold Phrase: Forgetting to Check Internal Temperature – Always check that the center of each pepper reaches at least 165°F for food safety.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers

• Wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe container or bag; they last up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers

• Bold Phrase: Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F, place stuffed peppers in a baking dish with a little water, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Bold Phrase: Microwave – Place stuffed pepper on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot throughout.
• Bold Phrase: Stovetop – Use a skillet with a lid over medium heat. Add a splash of water and cover; heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of ground beef in Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers?

Ground turkey or chicken works well as alternatives. Both provide great flavor and keep the dish lean.

How long do I cook Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers?

If using uncooked meat, cook for 16 minutes at high pressure; if browned, cook for only 8 minutes.

Can I customize my stuffing for Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables, different grains like quinoa, or swap out cheese types based on your preferences.

How do I know when my stuffed peppers are done?

Check that the center of each pepper reaches at least 165°F with an instant-read thermometer.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers are not only easy to prepare but also versatile and customizable. You can adjust fillings to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

---