Introduction
Smoked Sausage Stuffed Peppers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that turns humble ingredients into a showstopping meal. Perfect for busy families, this recipe nails the trifecta of being delicious, nutritious, and effortless. Whether you’re juggling back-to-school schedules or craving something cozy on a chilly evening, these stuffed peppers deliver. Plus, they’re a fantastic gateway into Dump And Go Crockpot Dinners territory—ideal for minimizing prep without sacrificing taste. Curious about more Dinner Ideas Recipes? Stick around—we’ve got pro tips, substitutions, and even a lazy-day cheat code!
Nutritional Benefits
These stuffed peppers are a nutrient powerhouse. Bell peppers burst with vitamins A and C, while smoked sausage adds protein for staying power. Swap in lean turkey sausage or plant-based crumbles for lighter twists!
| Nutrition (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 24g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
Customize based on dietary needs or pantry staples!
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Bell peppers | Vessel + crunch | Poblano peppers (for heat) |
| Smoked sausage | Savory protein | Chicken sausage, turkey kielbasa, or lentils |
| Cooked rice | Filler/base | Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or couscous |
| Tomato sauce | Moisture + tang | Diced tomatoes or salsa |
| Cheese (optional) | Melty richness | Vegan cheese or nutritional yeast |
Equipment Needed
– Baking dish (9×13”)
– Skillet for sautéing
– Knife + cutting board
– Mixing bowl
No fancy gadgets required—this is Lazy Dinners at their finest!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Peppers: Halve 4 large bell peppers vertically; remove seeds. Parboil 5 mins to soften.
2. Sauté Filling: Brown 12 oz smoked sausage (sliced) with 1 diced onion until golden. Add 2 minced garlic cloves.
3. Mix & Stuff: Combine sausage mix with 2 cups cooked rice, ¾ cup tomato sauce, and spices (1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp oregano). Spoon into peppers.
4. Bake & Melt: Top with shredded cheese. Bake at 375°F for 25 mins. Broil 2-3 mins for crispiness!
Pro Tip: Turn this into a Dump And Go Crockpot Dinners shortcut—layer raw stuffed peppers in a slow cooker on Low for 4-5 hours!
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Peppers too firm? Parboil longer or bake covered with foil.
– Avoid sogginess by draining sausage grease thoroughly.
– Spice it up! Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
✅ Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3-4 days.
✅ Freeze: Wrap unbaked stuffed peppers tightly; freeze up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
✅ Meal Prep: Mix filling 1-2 days ahead for Quick Dinner Ideas assembly!
Conclusion
Smoked Sausage Stuffed Peppers redefine Easy Weeknight Dinners—they’re flexible, wholesome, and adored by picky eaters. If you’re browsing Dinner Ideas For Family, make this your go-to. For another 15-minute marvel, try our zesty Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet next time!
FAQ
Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap sausage for black beans, walnuts, or plant-based crumbles.
Q: Are they gluten-free?
Yes—just ensure your sausage and tomato sauce are GF-certified.
Q: Can I grill instead of bake?
Yes! Grill peppers over indirect heat 15-20 mins (covered).
Q: How to reheat without drying out?
Sprinkle with broth; microwave or bake covered at 350°F until warm.
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