Keto-friendly stuffed peppers are a hearty and healthy meal you'll love! Start by sautéing onions and your choice of protein, then mix in riced cauliflower and spices for flavor. Stuff the mixture into bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until golden. This dish is low in carbs and high in protein, making it perfect for your keto diet. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies and cheeses. They even freeze well for easy meal prep. If you want tips on enhancing flavors or storage options, there's plenty more to explore!
Ingredients for Stuffed Peppers
Keto-friendly stuffed peppers are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a meal that aligns with low-carb dietary preferences. These vibrant bell peppers, filled with savory ingredients, not only look appealing but also pack a punch of flavor. Perfect as a hearty main course, they can be customized with various proteins and vegetables, making them a versatile option for any family meal. The combination of spices adds depth, while the melted cheese on top creates a satisfying finish. Whether you're following a keto lifestyle or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, these stuffed peppers are sure to please.
Ingredient List
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey/chicken/crumbled tofu)
- 1 cup riced cauliflower
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (optional for heat)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Pro Cooking Tips
- Pre-cook the peppers: For a softer texture, consider parboiling the bell peppers for about 5 minutes before stuffing.
- Season the protein well: Don't skimp on seasoning your meat or plant-based protein—this is key to bringing out the flavor.
- Mix and taste: Always taste your filling before stuffing the peppers to ensure the flavors are balanced.
- Cheese options: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for more complex flavors—try adding some cream cheese for creaminess.
- Make it a meal prep: These stuffed peppers freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy!
- Garnish creatively: Top with avocado, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream after baking for added freshness.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly brush the outsides with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the ground beef (or alternative protein) and cook until browned. Season with oregano, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix in the riced cauliflower and any optional jalapeños.
- Spoon the filling generously into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (1 stuffed pepper) |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Protein | 30g |
Additional Nutritional Notes: These stuffed peppers are low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making them an excellent choice for a keto diet. The vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients, while the cheese provides calcium. Remember that nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used. Adjust serving sizes accordingly to meet your dietary needs. Enjoy these flavorful stuffed peppers as part of a balanced meal!
Conclusion
Ultimately, these keto-friendly stuffed peppers not only satisfy your cravings but also keep your health goals on track. With fresh ingredients and bold flavors, you've created a hearty meal that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, they're easy to customize, so feel free to experiment with your favorite fillings. Whether it's a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, you've got a delicious dish that's sure to please everyone at the table. Relish!
