Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium bell peppers; 1 cup quinoa (rinsed); 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Published: August 16, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These quinoa stuffed bell peppers are quick to prepare and full of flavor that everyone will love
Their stunning colors make them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
You can easily customize the filling based on your preferences or what you have at home
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep for lunchboxes!

I once served these at a potluck, and folks couldn’t believe how healthy they were while still being absolutely delicious!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bell Peppers: Choose firm, vibrant-colored bell peppers; they should stand upright for filling without toppling over.
Quinoa: Rinse before cooking to remove its natural coating, which can taste bitter.
Black Beans: Canned is easiest; just rinse them well to reduce sodium content.
Corn: Fresh or frozen works great; it adds sweetness and crunch.
Diced Tomatoes: Use canned for convenience; they add moisture and flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for better melting; it brings everything together beautifully.
Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): Use these to enhance flavors; don’t skip them unless you’re feeling extra adventurous!
Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds brightness; chop it finely for garnish at the end.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring this mix to a boil over medium-high heat until bubbly.

Prep the Bell Peppers: While your quinoa simmers away for about 15 minutes, carefully slice off the tops of four bell peppers and scoop out the seeds using a small spoon.

Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and half of your grated cheese. Brussels sprouts stir fry Stir gently until everything is mixed well.

Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon or your hands (which makes you feel like an artist), fill each pepper with generous scoops of your quinoa mixture. Pack them in tightly so they won’t fall apart during cooking.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 25 minutes; remove the foil and sprinkle remaining cheese on top before baking uncovered for another 10 minutes.

Serve & Enjoy: Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired before serving—your guests will be amazed by how good healthy food can taste!

These quinoa stuffed bell peppers are not just easy to make but also packed with nutrients that make you feel good inside and out! For more inspiration, check out this marinated cucumbers salad recipe.

You Must Know

Quinoa stuffed bell peppers are not only colorful but also packed with nutrients
These delightful veggies can be prepped in advance, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive party dish
The aroma of roasting peppers fills the kitchen with warmth and comfort

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your quinoa before hollowing out the bell peppers. Cook quinoa according to package instructions while prepping your veggies for stuffing. This will save time and ensure everything is hot and ready simultaneously.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different grains like brown rice or farro. Add spices like cumin or paprika to elevate flavor, and toss in some black beans or corn for extra texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When prepping the quinoa, rinse it under cold water first; this removes bitterness
Choose firm peppers without blemishes for better stuffing results
Don’t overstuff; leave some room for the ingredients to expand during cooking

The first time I made quinoa stuffed bell peppers, my friends devoured them faster than I could plate! Their compliments made me realize how satisfying it is to share a delicious meal.

FAQ

Can I use other vegetables for stuffing?

Absolutely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even eggplant work wonderfully as alternatives.

How can I make these vegetarian-friendly?

Simply skip any meat additions and load up on extra veggies and beans instead.

What type of quinoa works best?

Both white and red quinoa are great choices; red adds a nice crunch and color contrast.

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