Save A budget-friendly, family-favorite twist on classic Sloppy Joes, these bell peppers are filled with savory beef and tomato sauce, then baked until perfectly tender.
Growing up, Sloppy Joes were a staple in our home, and stuffing the signature filling into bell peppers elevates the classic with a hearty, colorful presentation.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers: 4 large (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- Yellow onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) or substitute ground turkey
- Tomato sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp (use gluten-free if needed)
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup (60 g)
Instructions
- Prep the oven and peppers:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the bell peppers upright. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- Cook the filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Stuff and bake:
- Arrange bell peppers in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly into each pepper. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Add cheese and finish:
- Uncover, sprinkle each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for another 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Save My kids love helping stuff the peppers, and it's always a weeknight win when everyone clears their plates with big smiles.
Required Tools
Large skillet, baking dish, knife, cutting board, spoon or spatula, aluminum foil
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and may contain gluten or soy if regular Worcestershire sauce is used. Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and always check labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 335, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 26 g
Save This dish brings the comfort and flavor of classic Sloppy Joes with added veggie goodness in every bite. Enjoy with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a lighter alternative that works well with the seasonings and maintains moistness when cooked properly.
- → How do I ensure the peppers bake evenly?
Choose bell peppers of similar size and place them upright in a greased dish to allow even heat distribution during baking.
- → What can I add to the filling for extra texture?
Adding cooked rice or quinoa can bulk up the filling and introduce a pleasant texture contrast.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed peppers in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking to save time on serving day.
- → What cheese alternatives work well for topping?
Smoked gouda or pepper jack provide a different flavor profile but melt similarly to cheddar, enhancing the dish.