Pin A budget-friendly twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, these bell peppers are filled with savory beef and tomato sauce, topped with melty cheese, and baked to perfection. Perfect for a satisfying, wallet-friendly family dinner.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite because it combines all the comforting flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe in a healthy, colorful presentation that even kids love.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers: any color, tops cut off, seeds removed
- 1 small onion: finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic: minced
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef: may substitute ground turkey or chicken
- 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce:
- 2 tbsp tomato paste:
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: gluten-free if needed
- 1 tbsp brown sugar:
- 1 tsp chili powder:
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika:
- 1/2 tsp salt:
- 1/4 tsp black pepper:
- 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Prepare bell peppers:
- Arrange the bell peppers upright in a baking dish If needed slice a thin layer off the bottom so they stand upright
- Cook beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef until browned breaking it apart as it cooks about 5-6 minutes Drain excess fat if necessary
- Sauté veggies:
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet cook for 2-3 minutes until softened
- Add sauce and seasonings:
- Stir in tomato sauce tomato paste Worcestershire sauce brown sugar chili powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper Simmer for 4-5 minutes to thicken slightly
- Fill peppers:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each bell pepper
- Bake covered:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes
- Top with cheese and bake:
- Remove foil top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese and bake uncovered for another 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired Serve hot
Pin These bell peppers always bring the whole family together around the dinner table with smiles and hungry appetites.
Notes
Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Required Tools
Large skillet Baking dish Knife and cutting board Measuring spoons and cups Aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and soy (Worcestershire sauce check label for gluten/soy content) For gluten-free ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies
Pin Enjoy this wholesome dinner that is both hearty and easy to prepare a true family favorite.