Save to Pinterest A hearty, budget-friendly twist on classic Sloppy Joes—savory, sweet, and tangy beef filling baked inside tender bell peppers for a satisfying and wholesome dinner.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite because it's easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors that kids and adults both enjoy.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers: 4 large (any color), tops sliced off, seeded
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g), 80/20 or lean
- Tomato sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Ketchup: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
- Yellow mustard: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Chili powder: 1/4 tsp (optional, for heat)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup (60 g), plus extra for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the peppers upright.
- Prepare peppers:
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place peppers cut-side up in the baking dish.
- Cook beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned (5 6 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté onion and garlic:
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Add sauce ingredients:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Simmer 4 5 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
- Mix in cheese:
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese (if using) until melted into the mixture.
- Fill peppers:
- Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly into each bell pepper, filling to the top.
- Bake covered:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Bake uncovered:
- Remove foil, sprinkle with additional cheese if desired, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, until peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.
- Cool before serving:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering for this meal because everyone enjoys stuffing their own pepper, making dinner interactive and fun.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed rice to make the meal more filling and balanced.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Variations
Add diced celery or carrots to the filling for extra veggies or top with avocado slices for a creamy finish.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist. Perfect for weeknight dinners.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter variation without compromising flavor.
- → How do I ensure bell peppers cook evenly?
Slice the tops off and remove seeds, then bake peppers cut-side up to allow even cooking and prevent sogginess.
- → Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Adding chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling can introduce extra heat to suit your taste.
- → Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, the filling can be made up to two days ahead and refrigerated, then stuffed into peppers before baking.
- → What side dishes complement this meal?
Serve with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or fluffy rice for a balanced and filling plate.