Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers
Introduction
Elevate your grilling game with these Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers. Packed with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and cheese, these peppers are cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The unique heat zones of the grill ensure even cooking and a deliciously charred flavor that will make this dish a hit at your next barbecue.
Ingredients
- 6 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Grill
Start by firing up the Arteflame grill to get it ready for grilling. Aim for a hot center grill grate for searing and a moderate temperature on the flat cooktop.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Brush the outsides of the peppers with olive oil.
- Finely chop the pepper tops and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Filling
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat on the flat cooktop griddle.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped pepper tops, cooked rice, marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Remove the skillet from the grill and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
- Fill each bell pepper with the ground beef mixture, packing it in tightly.
- Place the stuffed peppers on the flat cooktop griddle, near the center for a quick sear.
Step 5: Grill the Peppers
- Sear the bottoms of the peppers for about 2-3 minutes to get a nice char.
- Move the peppers to the cooler edges of the cooktop and cover them with a grill lid or foil. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the peppers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a handful of shredded Parmesan cheese to the filling mixture.
- Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meatless ground beef alternative.
Conclusion
Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers are a hearty and delicious dish that's perfect for any barbecue. The Arteflame grill ensures the peppers are cooked to perfection, with a delightful charred flavor that enhances the savory filling.
Variations
1. Mexican Stuffed Peppers
Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to the filling for a Mexican twist. Top with sour cream and avocado.
2. Italian Stuffed Peppers
Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef and add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the filling. Top with marinara sauce and fresh basil.
3. Greek Stuffed Peppers
Incorporate cooked quinoa, feta cheese, and chopped spinach into the filling. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce.
4. Southwest Stuffed Peppers
Add cooked chorizo, diced tomatoes, and pepper jack cheese to the filling. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
5. BBQ Stuffed Peppers
Mix in cooked bacon, BBQ sauce, and cheddar cheese to the filling for a smoky, tangy flavor.
Best Pairings
- Beverage: A robust red wine or a cold, crisp lager.
- Side Dish: Grilled corn on the cob or a fresh green salad.
- Dessert: A light, refreshing fruit sorbet or a slice of cheesecake.