Savory Potato-Stuffed Bell Peppers Delight
Delight your taste buds with these Savory Potato-Stuffed Bell Peppers, an innovative twist on a classic dish. This recipe features vibrant green bell peppers filled with a rich mixture of creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed onions, and red peppers, seasoned to perfection. Baked in a luscious tomato sauce, these stuffed peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and comfort. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish brings together wholesome ingredients to create a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Green bell peppers
4 (large, tops sliced off, seeds and spines removed)
Onion
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
Red pepper
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Dried chives
1 tablespoon (crumbled)
Potatoes
2 cups (mashed)
Tomato sauce
2 cups
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Prepare the green bell peppers by slicing off the tops just below the stems. Carefully remove the seeds and interior spines, ensuring the peppers remain intact.
3
In a large pot, gently parboil the bell peppers in boiling water for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. Then, drain them upside down to remove any excess water and set them aside.
4
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion and red pepper until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
5
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and red pepper with the mashed potatoes, adding salt, pepper, and crumbled dried chives to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
6
Carefully stuff each parboiled bell pepper with the potato mixture, packing it in gently but firmly.
7
Place the stuffed peppers upright in a deep-sided baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce evenly around the base of the peppers, ensuring they are surrounded by the sauce.
8
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes.
9
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly.
10
Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Potato-Stuffed Bell Peppers!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Potato-Stuffed Bell Peppers Delight?
It is an innovative dish featuring vibrant green bell peppers filled with a rich mixture of creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed onions, and red peppers, all baked in a savory tomato sauce.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How should I prepare the green bell peppers?
Slice off the tops just below the stems and carefully remove the seeds and interior spines while keeping the pepper walls intact.
Why do the peppers need to be parboiled?
Parboiling for about 5 minutes softens the peppers slightly before stuffing to ensure they are perfectly cooked after baking.
Can I use colors other than green for the bell peppers?
Yes, you can use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a sweeter flavor or a more colorful presentation.
What goes into the potato filling?
The filling consists of 2 cups of mashed potatoes mixed with sautéed onions, red peppers, salt, pepper, and dried chives.
How long should I sauté the onions and red peppers?
Sauté the finely chopped onion and red pepper in a skillet for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
How do I pack the potato mixture into the peppers?
Carefully stuff each parboiled pepper with the potato mixture, packing it in gently but firmly.
How much tomato sauce is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of tomato sauce to be poured around the base of the peppers in the baking dish.
Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
Yes, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to retain moisture.
How long is the total baking time?
The total baking time is approximately 25 minutes: 20 minutes covered and 5 minutes uncovered.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian dish as it uses only vegetables, potatoes, and tomato sauce.
Can I use fresh chives instead of dried?
Yes, fresh chives can be substituted; you may want to increase the amount slightly for the same flavor intensity.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided your tomato sauce does not contain any hidden gluten additives.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffed peppers and the sauce a day ahead, keep them refrigerated, and bake them when ready to serve.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze these stuffed peppers?
Yes, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.
What type of potatoes work best for mashing in this recipe?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent choices for creating a creamy and fluffy mashed potato filling.
How do I prevent the peppers from falling over in the dish?
Use a deep-sided baking dish that fits the peppers snugly to keep them upright during the baking process.
What can I serve as a side with these peppers?
They pair well with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.
Can I add cheese to the potato filling?
Absolutely! Mixing in some shredded cheddar or parmesan can add a delicious cheesy flavor to the filling.
Why do I remove the foil for the last 5 minutes?
Removing the foil allows the tops of the stuffed peppers to brown slightly and develop a better texture.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is a wholesome meal rich in vitamins from the bell peppers and fiber from the potatoes.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While fresh potatoes are recommended for better flavor, instant mashed potatoes can be used as a time-saving alternative.
Can I add protein like meat to this recipe?
Yes, you can mix cooked ground beef, turkey, or lentils into the potato mixture for added protein.
How do I know when the peppers are done?
The peppers should be tender when pierced with a fork and the potato filling should be heated through and slightly browned on top.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
Can I use a different sauce besides tomato sauce?
Yes, a creamy cheese sauce or a garlic butter sauce could also complement the potato-stuffed peppers.
Should I drain the peppers after parboiling?
Yes, drain them upside down on paper towels to ensure no excess water remains inside before stuffing.