Grilled Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Sizzling Grilled Stuffed Peppers Recipe: Garden-Fresh Delight

Colorful and vibrant grilled stuffed peppers promise a delightful culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Crisp bell peppers become magical vessels for savory fillings bursting with flavor.

Summer gardens inspire these delectable treats that combine fresh produce with hearty proteins.

Charred edges hint at smoky goodness waiting to tantalize your taste buds.

Mediterranean influences shine through each carefully crafted pepper packed with wholesome ingredients.

Minimal preparation meets maximum satisfaction in this crowd-pleasing dish.

You’ll find these peppers irresistible and perfect for casual dinners or weekend gatherings.

Grab your grill and get ready to impress everyone at the table.

Grilled Stuffed Peppers That Impress Every Guest

  • Simplify Meal Prep: This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a delicious, colorful dish with minimal kitchen effort, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
  • Customize Your Flavor: Mix and match ingredients like beans, cheese, and spices to create personalized stuffed peppers that suit every taste preference and dietary need.
  • Grill-Friendly Delight: Perfect for outdoor cooking, these peppers bring a fresh, smoky twist to traditional recipes, turning a simple meal into a backyard celebration.
  • Nutritious One-Pot Wonder: Packed with protein, vegetables, and whole grains, this recipe delivers a balanced meal in a single, vibrant pepper vessel that satisfies hunger and nutrition goals.

Ingredients Needed to Make Stuffed Peppers

Peppers:
  • Bell Peppers: Colorful vegetables that serve as the edible vessel for the delicious filling.
Filling Base:
  • Cooked Rice: Provides a hearty and filling foundation for the stuffed peppers.
  • Black Beans, Corn: Protein-rich and sweet ingredients that add texture and nutrition.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and a fresh, tangy flavor to the filling.
Seasoning and Cheese:
  • Shredded Cheese, Extra Cheese: Creamy ingredient that melts beautifully and adds rich flavor.
  • Chili Powder, Cumin, Salt, Pepper: Spices that bring depth and warmth to the overall dish.
Finishing Touches:
  • Olive Oil: Helps to prepare and enhance the pepper's exterior.
  • Fresh Cilantro: Bright herb used as a garnish to add freshness and color.

Instructions to Grill Perfect Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Slice and Prep Peppers

Grab bell peppers and carefully remove their tops. Scoop out all seeds and white membranes from inside.

Gently coat the entire pepper surface with a light brush of olive oil to enhance grilling flavor.

Step 2: Create Delicious Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
  • Cooked rice
  • Black beans
  • Corn kernels
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Shredded cheese
  • Chili powder
  • Ground cumin
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly distributed and well-mixed.

Step 3: Pack Peppers with Filling

Take each prepared pepper and generously fill it with the rice and bean mixture. Press down firmly to ensure the filling is compact and reaches all sides.

Sprinkle an extra layer of cheese on top for added richness.

Step 4: Fire Up the Grill

Set your grill to medium heat.

Position the stuffed peppers directly on clean grill grates or place them in a grill-safe pan. Close the grill lid and cook for 10-15 minutes.

Watch for peppers to become tender and cheese to melt completely.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Remove peppers from the grill with care.

Scatter fresh chopped cilantro over the top. Serve immediately alongside a crisp salad or warm garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips to Nail Grilled Stuffed Peppers Each Time

  • Swap ingredients to accommodate dietary needs, like using quinoa instead of rice for gluten-free diets or replacing cheese with nutritional yeast for vegan options.
  • Choose bell peppers with flat bottoms to help them stand upright on the grill, preventing filling from spilling out during cooking.
  • Wrap peppers in aluminum foil if you prefer softer peppers or want to prevent direct charring from grill flames.
  • Prep ingredients ahead of time to make assembly faster and reduce overall cooking stress during meal preparation.
  • Add extra protein by mixing in cooked ground turkey, shredded chicken, or plant-based crumbles into the filling for a more substantial meal.

Flavor Variations to Switch Up Stuffed Peppers

  • Vegetarian Quinoa Swap: Replace rice with protein-rich quinoa, adding roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant for extra nutrition.
  • Spicy Southwest Kick: Incorporate jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, and add chipotle powder for a fiery flavor profile.
  • Keto-Friendly Version: Substitute rice and beans with cauliflower rice, use low-carb vegetables, and add ground beef or chicken for protein.
  • Mediterranean Inspired: Switch black beans for chickpeas, use feta cheese, add oregano and mint, and include diced cucumber for a fresh Mediterranean twist.

Pairing Suggestions to Go Along With Stuffed Peppers

  • Create a zesty homemade salsa with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, lime juice, and cilantro to complement the grilled stuffed peppers' robust flavors.
  • Blend a classic margarita with tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec to cut through the pepper's richness and enhance the Mexican-inspired meal.
  • Select a crisp, medium-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to balance the peppers' smoky grilled notes and creamy cheese filling.
  • Choose a light Mexican lager like Corona or Modelo Especial, which provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty, spice-packed peppers.

Storing Stuffed Peppers Without Losing Flavor

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual peppers tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
  • Microwave Reheat: Place pepper on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even warming.
  • Oven Reheat: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place peppers in baking dish, cover with foil. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through, adding extra cheese if desired.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of peppers for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute bell peppers with poblano, jalapeño, or even banana peppers for a different flavor and heat level.

  • Is this recipe vegetarian?

The current recipe is vegetarian. If you want to add protein, you can include ground turkey, chicken, or tofu in the filling.

  • Can I prepare the stuffed peppers in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers up to a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just grill them when you’re ready to eat.

  • How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your rice and beans are certified gluten-free, and check your spices for any potential gluten contamination.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Grilled Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Grilled Stuffed Peppers


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 39 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mexican-inspired grilled stuffed peppers showcase a delightful blend of spicy chorizo, melted cheese, and roasted vegetables. Hearty ingredients create a satisfying meal that brings zest and flavor to your plate, making you crave another bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bell peppers (large, any color)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1/2 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (drained)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh cilantro (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Select vibrant, firm bell peppers and trim their tops, meticulously removing seeds and inner membranes. Gently coat the exterior with a light sheen of olive oil for enhanced flavor and grilling performance.
  2. Create a robust filling by blending warm, fluffy rice with hearty black beans, sweet corn kernels, zesty diced tomatoes, and generously shredded cheese. Enhance the mixture with aromatic chili powder, earthy cumin, and balanced seasoning.
  3. Carefully pack the prepared filling into each pepper cavity, pressing firmly to ensure a compact and substantial stuffing. Crown the peppers with an additional sprinkle of melting cheese.
  4. Heat the grill to a consistent medium temperature (around 375°F). Position the stuffed peppers either directly on clean grill grates or within a protective grill-safe container. Close the grill lid and allow 12-14 minutes of cooking time, monitoring until peppers soften and cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling layer.
  5. Once grilled to perfection, transfer peppers to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves, creating a vibrant visual and aromatic finish. Accompany with a crisp salad or warm garlic bread for a satisfying, complete dining experience.

Notes

  • Ensure peppers are similar in size for even cooking, preventing undercooked or burnt sections.
  • Use foil underneath delicate peppers to prevent them from falling apart or sticking to grill grates.
  • For a vegetarian version, replace black beans with quinoa or lentils for added protein and texture.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or feta to create unique flavor profiles and keep the dish exciting.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 14 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 235 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star