Crockpot Stuffed Peppers

Crockpot Stuffed Peppers are the perfect combination of comfort food and convenience. This classic dish features sweet bell peppers filled with a hearty mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and savory seasonings, all slow-cooked to tender perfection. Using a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully while freeing you from standing over the stove, making it ideal for busy days.

What makes Crockpot Stuffed Peppers especially appealing is their simplicity and versatility. The slow cooker gently softens the peppers while keeping the filling moist and flavorful. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or planning meals ahead for the week, this dish delivers warmth, nourishment, and home-cooked comfort in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Crockpot Stuffed Peppers recipe because it’s effortless, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. You can assemble everything in the morning and come home to a fully cooked meal that smells amazing. The peppers turn perfectly tender without becoming mushy, and the filling stays juicy and flavorful.

Another reason I love this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can change the protein, adjust the seasonings, or make it vegetarian, and it still turns out delicious every time.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Easy hands-off slow cooker meal
• Classic comfort food with bold flavor
• Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep
• Customizable for different diets
• Hearty, filling, and family-friendly

Once you try Crockpot Stuffed Peppers, they’re sure to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 8 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 380 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Peppers

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup water or tomato sauce (for the crockpot)

For the Filling

• 500 g ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes, drained
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Cooking Directions

1. Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
2. In a bowl, mix ground meat, cooked rice, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and seasonings.
3. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture.
4. Pour water or tomato sauce into the bottom of the crockpot.
5. Arrange stuffed peppers upright in the crockpot.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
7. Sprinkle cheese on top during the last 15–20 minutes.
8. Cover again until cheese is melted.
9. Serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Peppers: Slice tops off and clean inside.
2. Make Filling: Combine meat, rice, vegetables, and spices.
3. Stuff Peppers: Fill each pepper generously.
4. Set Up Crockpot: Add liquid and arrange peppers.
5. Slow Cook: Let peppers cook until tender.
6. Add Cheese: Melt cheese just before serving.
7. Serve: Remove carefully and plate.

How to Serve Crockpot Stuffed Peppers

• Serve hot as a complete meal
• Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread
• Spoon extra sauce from the crockpot over peppers
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil

Recipe Tips

• Use evenly sized peppers for even cooking
• Pre-cook rice to avoid undercooked filling
• Avoid overfilling to prevent spilling
• Use lean meat to reduce excess grease

Variations (Detailed)

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Use lentils, beans, or quinoa instead of meat.

Mexican-Style Stuffed Peppers

Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn.

Low-Carb Version

Replace rice with cauliflower rice.

Cheesy Stuffed Peppers

Mix cheese directly into the filling.

Italian Stuffed Peppers

Use Italian sausage and marinara sauce.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container
• Keeps well for 3–4 days

Freezer

• Freeze cooked stuffed peppers for up to 3 months

Reheating

• Reheat in microwave or oven until hot throughout

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (crockpot)
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon for stuffing

Conclusion

Crockpot Stuffed Peppers are a comforting, nourishing dish that combines classic flavors with modern convenience. With tender peppers, a hearty filling, and minimal hands-on effort, this recipe is perfect for busy families and anyone who loves slow-cooked meals. It’s versatile, satisfying, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.