Cauliflower Rice–Stuffed Peppers
+3 photos

Cauliflower Rice–Stuffed Peppers

4 servings
These stuffed peppers with cauliflower rice are a low-carb alternative to traditional stuffed peppers. Use a mix of bell peppers for variety.

Ingredients

  • bell peppers

    about 2 pounds

    4 large
  • small cauliflower florets
    2 c
  • extra-virgin olive oil

    divided

    2 tbsp
  • salt plus 1/2 teaspoon

    divided

  • ground pepper plus 1/4 teaspoon

    divided

  • chopped onion
    ½ c
  • lean ground beef
    1 lb
  • garlic

    minced

    2 cloves
  • dried oregano
    ½ tsp
  • can no-salt-added tomato sauce
    1
  • shredded part-skim mozzarella
    ½ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350ºF.

  2. 2

    Slice off the stem ends of 4 bell peppers. Cut the flesh from the stem and chop. You should have about 1 cup. Scoop out seeds from the pepper cavities. Bring about an inch of water to a boil in a large pot fitted with a steamer basket. Steam the peppers until they start to soften, about 3 minutes. Remove the peppers from the pot and set aside.

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Pulse 2 cups cauliflower in a food processor until broken down into rice-size pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cauliflower rice and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring, until softened and starting to brown, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl.

  4. 4

    Wipe out the pan. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, the chopped bell pepper and ½ cup onion. Cook, stirring, until starting to soften, about 3 minutes. Add 1 pound beef, 2 cloves garlic, ½ teaspoon oregano and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook, stirring and breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon just until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Add 8 ounces tomato sauce and the cauliflower rice; stir to coat.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    Place the peppers upright in an 8-inch-square baking dish. Fill each pepper with a generous 1 cup of the cauliflower rice mixture. Top each pepper with 2 tablespoons cheese.

    Step 5
  6. 6

    Bake until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted, 20 to 25 minutes.

    Step 6
Cauliflower Rice–Stuffed Peppers
+3

Cauliflower Rice–Stuffed Peppers

5.0(21)60 min4 servings374 cal

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5.0(21 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Looking for a satisfying dinner that keeps carbs in check without sacrificing flavor? These Cauliflower Rice–Stuffed Peppers offer all the comfort of a classic dish with a smart, low-carb twist. The genius of this recipe lies in swapping traditional rice for savory cauliflower florets, creating a light yet filling base. This simple change elevates a beloved comfort food, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a healthier alternative to classic stuffed peppers. Prepare to enjoy a vibrant blend of tender bell peppers, rich seasoned ground beef, and fluffy cauliflower rice simmered in a robust tomato sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella. Each bite delivers a harmonious balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, making for a truly comforting and complete meal. Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is designed to come together in about an hour, yielding four generous servings at just 374 calories each.

Customization & Variations

Easily adapt these stuffed peppers to fit your pantry and preferences. While lean ground beef provides a hearty base, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based mince for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like a sharp cheddar or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added depth. A mix of bell pepper colors not only adds visual appeal but can also subtly vary the sweetness. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these low-carb stuffed peppers stand beautifully on their own. They pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or some steamed green beans for an extra boost of vegetables.

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