Save 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.
I love making these because they combine all the flavors of a Sloppy Joe in a fun and colorful way that my whole family enjoys.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off, seeds removed, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (may substitute ground turkey or chicken)
- Sauce & Seasonings: 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
- Toppings: 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2:
- Arrange the bell peppers upright in a baking dish. If needed, slice a thin layer off the bottom so they stand upright.
- Step 3:
- 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.
- Step 4:
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Step 5:
- 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.
- Step 6:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each bell pepper.
- Step 7:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Remove foil, top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for another 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 9:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save This recipe has quickly become a favorite for family dinners, bringing everyone to the table with smiles and full plates.
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 and soy content). Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 350 calories, 18 g total fat, 18 g carbohydrates, 28 g protein
Save This simple yet flavorful dish is sure to become a staple in your weeknight rotation.