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.
I first served these Sloppy Joe Stuffed Bell Peppers on a busy weeknight and loved how everyone enjoyed a comforting classic in a healthy new way.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 4 large bell peppers (any color), 1 small yellow onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- Sauce & Seasonings: 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Toppings: 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the bell peppers upright.
- Prepare peppers:
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- Cook beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned breaking it up with a spoon about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Mix sauce:
- 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.
- Fill peppers:
- Arrange bell peppers in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly into each pepper.
- Bake covered:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Bake uncovered:
- Uncover sprinkle each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese and bake uncovered for another 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and serve:
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Save This recipe has become a family favorite because it brings everyone to the table for a delicious homemade meal enjoyed by young and old alike.
Tips for Serving
Serve with a simple green salad or roasted potatoes to complete this hearty meal.
Variations
Use smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra flavor and a twist on the original.
Allergen Info
Contains dairy (cheese) and soy/gluten if using regular Worcestershire sauce. For gluten-free choose gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. Always check ingredient labels.
Save This Sloppy Joe Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe offers a comforting classic with a fresh twist perfect for any day of the week.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative, providing a similar texture and flavor profile when seasoned properly.
- → How do I prepare the bell peppers before stuffing?
Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes to create a hollow space ready for filling.
- → What cheese varieties can be used for topping?
Cheddar is classic, but smoked gouda or pepper jack add interesting smoky or spicy notes.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely, by using gluten-free Worcestershire sauce you keep all ingredients safe for a gluten-free diet.
- → Can I add grains to the filling for extra bulk?
Yes, mixing in cooked rice or quinoa enhances texture and adds nutritional value.