Iowa Grilled Stuffed Peppers on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

These Iowa-style grilled stuffed peppers are loaded with seasoned ground meat and melted cheese, cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. By searing the meat first on the center grill grate at 1,000°F, you lock in the juices before finishing the cooking process on the flat-top griddle. This method ensures a smoky, rich flavor with the perfect texture. The Arteflame’s unique design lets you grill everything at once for a perfect, hassle-free meal.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground beef or sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp butter
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

1. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. Set them aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

1. Heat butter on the flat top cooktop.
2. Sear the ground meat on the center grill grate at 1,000°F to lock in juices, then move it to the flat top griddle.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned.
4. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
5. Mix in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 4: Stuff and Grill the Peppers

1. Fill each bell pepper with the cooked mixture.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
3. Place the stuffed peppers on the flat top cooktop, closer to the outer edge to avoid excessive heat.
4. Cook until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

1. Carefully remove the peppers from the grill.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips

• Use different colored bell peppers for a visually appealing dish.
• Let the grilled stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
• Remove the meat from the grill when it’s 15°F below the target temperature since it continues to cook off the heat.

Variations

• Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a southwestern twist.
• Italian Inspired: Use ground turkey, Italian seasoning, and mozzarella cheese.
• Greek Flavors: Try lamb, feta cheese, and oregano for a delicious Mediterranean variation.
• Keto-Friendly: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• BBQ Style: Mix in some BBQ sauce and top with pepper jack cheese for a smoky kick.

Conclusion

Grilling stuffed peppers on the Arteflame brings out unbeatable flavor with perfectly tender peppers and juicy filling. The even heat of the flat griddle cooktop prevents burning while enhancing the caramelized taste of the ingredients. Try different variations and enjoy this classic dish Iowa-style!

Best pairings

• Grilled Corn on the Cob
• Garlic Butter Grilled Mushrooms
• Chilled Coleslaw
• Rustic Grilled Bread with Herb Butter
• Smoky Baked Beans