Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers are a delightful dish that brings together vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors. Imagine biting into tender peppers filled with seasoned rice, meat, and spices, all slow-cooked to perfection. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is like a warm hug after a long day.

This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s about memories too. I remember my grandmother making stuffed peppers every Sunday, filling our home with delicious smells that made us race to the dinner table. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy family dinner or hosting friends for game night, these peppers are always a hit. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that’s as comforting as your favorite pair of sweatpants.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, giving you more time to kick back and relax
- The flavor combination is out-of-this-world, offering a satisfying bite in every forkful
- With their stunning colors and shapes, these stuffed peppers can brighten any meal presentation
- They are versatile enough to suit any dietary preference or leftover ingredients you have on hand
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Bell Peppers: Choose medium-sized bell peppers in vibrant colors like red, yellow, or green for added sweetness and visual appeal.
- Ground Meat: Use beef, turkey, or chicken based on your preference; each adds a different flavor profile.
- Rice: Uncooked white or brown rice works well; it absorbs the flavors while cooking.
- Onion: A chopped onion adds depth and sweetness; sauté it beforehand for extra flavor if you like.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the overall taste; it’s the secret ingredient that brings everything together.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes (with juice) keep the stuffing moist and add acidity to balance the flavors.
- Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates a deliciously gooey finish; mozzarella or cheddar are great choices.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Peppers
Start by washing your bell peppers. Slice off the tops and remove the seeds—this might feel like performing surgery on vegetables but trust me; it’s worth it! Set them aside while you mix up the filling.
Step 2: Cook Your Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil and sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent. Then toss in minced garlic and ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary before adding rice and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Season It Up
Don’t forget the seasoning! Add salt, pepper, Italian herbs, or whatever tickles your fancy. Taste-test your filling—this is crucial because no one likes bland food!
Step 4: Stuff Those Peppers
Grab those bell peppers you set aside earlier and carefully spoon in your flavorful filling until overflowing (but not spilling). Place them upright in your slow cooker; this will help them maintain their shape.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for about six hours or on high for three hours. You’ll know they’re done when the peppers are tender but still hold their shape—like a confident vegetable strutting its stuff!
Step 6: Cheese It Up
During the last ten minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper. Close the lid again until melted—this cheesy goodness will have everyone drooling!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now that you’ve mastered this delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers, how about throwing in some variations? You can swap out ground meat for quinoa for a vegetarian option or add black beans instead of rice if you’re feeling adventurous! Enjoy experimenting with flavors while keeping this dish as your trusty go-to weeknight meal!
You Must Know
- This delightful Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers recipe offers more than just a meal; it simplifies dinner prep and fills your home with mouthwatering aromas
- Customize the fillings to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your ingredients while your slow cooker warms up. Brown any meat first, then layer your bell peppers into the pot. Pour in your sauce and let everything meld together for a few hours for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option. Seasonings like cumin or smoked paprika can elevate the flavors further. Toss in some cheese on top for a gooey finish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or return them to the slow cooker with a splash of water to keep them moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect stuffed peppers, remember: choose firm peppers and avoid overstuffing to prevent spills
- Always taste your filling before stuffing; seasoning is key!
- And don’t rush the cooking time; patience brings out the best flavors
It was during a family get-together when I first served these Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers. Watching everyone go back for seconds made my heart smile as they declared this their new favorite dish!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers?
To make delicious Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers, gather bell peppers, ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken), cooked rice, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, cheese, and seasonings like oregano and basil. You can also add beans or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. These ingredients blend together beautifully in the slow cooker, creating a comforting dish that your family will love.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers?
Cooking Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker model and the size of the peppers. Ensure they are tender and the filling is heated through before serving. This method allows all flavors to meld perfectly.
Can I make Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers ahead of time! Assemble the stuffed peppers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes meal prep easier and saves time on busy weekdays. Simply place them in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers?
Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers pair well with various sides. Consider serving them with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or quinoa for a wholesome meal. You can also offer a side of roasted vegetables or a light soup to complement the flavors. These sides enhance your dining experience and add nutritional balance to the meal.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers :
In summary, Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers are an easy and nutritious dish that your family will enjoy. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, they offer a comforting meal perfect for busy nights. The slow cooking process enhances flavors while ensuring everything stays juicy and tender. Try this recipe today for a satisfying dinner option that everyone will love!

Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers are a comforting and colorful dish that combines tender bell peppers with a flavorful filling of seasoned meat, rice, and spices. This easy recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. As they cook, the aroma fills your home with mouthwatering scents, promising a delicious meal that satisfies every palate.
Ingredients
- 4 medium bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Italian herbs to taste
Instructions
- Wash the bell peppers, slice off the tops, and remove the seeds. Set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions in oil until translucent. Add minced garlic and ground meat; cook until browned.
- Stir in rice and diced tomatoes; season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix well.
- Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the filling and place them upright in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until peppers are tender.
- In the last 10 minutes of cooking, sprinkle cheese on top of each pepper; cover until melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on low (3 hours on high)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg