Simple & Savory Easy Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers (Low-Carb & Hearty Meal!)

Simple & Savory Easy Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers (Low-Carb & Hearty Meal!)

Enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal with these Easy Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers! Tender bell pepper halves are filled with a rich mixture of seasoned ground beef, creamy cauliflower rice, and a cheesy blend, then baked until bubbly and golden. This dish is naturally low-carb, high-protein, and gluten-free – perfect for a delicious and healthy dinner!

Yields: 4 servings (2 halves per serving) Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30-35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 recommended for flavor)
• 1 (10-12 ounce) bag frozen cauliflower rice, steamed and thoroughly drained (or 3-4 cups fresh riced cauliflower)
• 2 large bell peppers (any color: red, yellow, orange, or green), cut in half lengthwise and seeds/membranes removed
• 2 ounces (about 4 tablespoons) cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (full-fat, check for no added sugar)
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced (about 3-4 cloves, or 1 tsp garlic powder)
• 6 ounces (about 1 ½ cups) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• Salt, black pepper, and any other desired seasonings (e.g., onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning), to taste
• Avocado oil or olive oil spray (for baking dish)

Equipment:

• Baking dish (9×13 inch or similar)
• Large skillet
• Medium mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut them in half lengthwise and carefully remove all seeds and white membranes.
   • Place the bell pepper halves, cut-side up, in a a baking dish. Lightly spray the peppers with avocado oil or olive oil spray.
   • Par-Bake Peppers: Bake the bell pepper halves for 10-15 minutes, or until they are slightly tender but still hold their shape. This step helps ensure the peppers are tender when the dish is done. Remove from oven.
2. Cook Ground Beef: While the bell peppers are par-baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is thoroughly browned and cooked through.
   • Add the minced garlic and your desired seasonings (salt, pepper, onion powder, etc.) to the beef during the last few minutes of cooking.
   • Drain any excess grease from the cooked beef.
3. Prepare Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained ground beef, thoroughly steamed and drained cauliflower rice, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise.
   • Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
4. Stuff Peppers & Top with Cheese: Evenly spoon the beef and cauliflower mixture into each par-baked bell pepper half, mounding it slightly if needed.
   • Sprinkle the remaining shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top of the filling in each pepper half.
5. Final Bake: Return the baking dish with the stuffed peppers to the oven.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are fully tender, the filling is heated through, and the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
6. Serve & Enjoy! Carefully remove from the oven. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying keto meal!

Tips for Success:

• Drain Cauliflower Rice: After steaming, it’s crucial to thoroughly drain the cauliflower rice (you can even press it with paper towels) to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
• Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Seasoning: Don’t be shy with seasonings on both the beef and the bell peppers to build layers of flavor.
• Customization:
  • Add a tablespoon of sugar-free low-carb marinara sauce to the beef mixture for an Italian twist.
  • Stir in some diced onion (cooked with the beef) or green chilies for extra flavor.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.

Storage: Store any leftover Easy Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification

• High Protein: Yes, from the ground beef and cheese.
• Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is very low-carb. Cauliflower rice replaces traditional grains, and all other ingredients are keto-friendly.
• Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. All listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
  • Mayonnaise: Crucial to use full-fat and check for no added sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

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