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Simple Gluten-Free Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Gluten-free stuffed peppers are a vibrant, nutritious, and incredibly versatile dish that transforms simple bell peppers into a delightful meal packed with flavour and wholesome ingredients.

Whether you’re catering to a gluten-free diet or simply looking to enjoy a delicious, colourful dinner, these peppers offer a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and exciting seasonings.

From Mediterranean-inspired fillings with feta and herbs to Mexican-style versions with spicy rice and beans, stuffed peppers can be adapted to suit almost any taste preference while remaining naturally gluten-free.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability.

You can easily customize the filling using gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice, lean proteins such as ground turkey or plant-based alternatives, and an array of fresh vegetables and spices such as chilli.

Not only are these peppers a nutritional powerhouse, but they’re also visually appealing – their bright colours make them as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping, or entertaining guests with dietary restrictions, gluten-free stuffed peppers are sure to impress.

What you’ll love about this recipe

A Nutritional Powerhouse

Bell peppers are an absolute nutrition champion, packed with an impressive array of vitamins and minerals. One serving provides a whopping 169% of your daily Vitamin C, 21% of Vitamin A, and a host of other essential nutrients like Vitamin B6 and folate.

These vibrant peppers are not just a feast for the eyes, but a genuine health boost that will make your body sing with joy. The versatile fillings – whether you choose quinoa, lean meats, or vegetables – only amplify the nutritional profile, creating a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Incredibly Adaptable Culinary Canvas

Gluten-free stuffed peppers are the ultimate chameleon of the dinner world.

From Mediterranean-inspired versions with feta and olives to spicy Mexican-style peppers bursting with salsa and black beans, there’s a combination to suit every palate.

You can effortlessly swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry, making these peppers a brilliant solution for using up leftovers or experimenting with new flavour combinations.

Whether you’re craving a hearty beef mince filling or a light vegetarian option, these peppers are your culinary playground.

Budget-Friendly Meal Solution

In these times of rising food costs, gluten-free stuffed peppers are a wallet-friendly hero.

Bell peppers are typically affordable, and you can use economical ingredients like rice, beans, and seasonal vegetables to create a sumptuous meal.

The beauty lies in their versatility – you can craft a delicious dinner using pantry staples and whatever fresh produce you have on hand.

Plus, they’re perfect for batch cooking, meaning you can prepare multiple servings in one go, saving both time and money.

Effortless Meal Preparation

These stuffed peppers are remarkably simple to prepare, making them ideal for busy home cooks.

Most recipes require just a few steps: sauté your filling, stuff the peppers, and bake.

Many variations can be prepared in under an hour, with minimal washing up required.

Better yet, they’re excellent for meal prep – you can make them in advance, refrigerate, and reheat them throughout the week. For those juggling work, family, and other commitments, these peppers are a true culinary lifesaver.

Naturally Gluten-free 

Unlike many gluten-free dishes that require complicated substitutions, stuffed peppers are naturally gluten-free when prepared thoughtfully.

This means you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal without the hassle of finding special ingredients or worrying about cross-contamination.

The core ingredients – bell peppers, proteins, vegetables, and grains like quinoa – are inherently gluten-free, making these peppers a stress-free option for those with dietary restrictions or simply seeking a wholesome, flavourful meal.

Ingredients

• 1 Large red pepper per person
• 1 Medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 Medium courgette, finely chopped
• 1 Clove garlic, crushed
• 250 g Minced beef (this will fill 2 large peppers)
• 400 g Can chopped tinned tomatoes
• 1 Gluten-free beef stock cube
• 1 tbsp Tomato purée
• 2 tsp Italian herbs
• 1 Handful of hard cheese (cheddar)
• 1 tsp Chilli flakes (optional)
• Salt & Pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 200℃ or Gas 6.
2. Wash and de-seed two large red peppers.
3. Fry the chopped onion until brown (about five minutes), then add the crushed garlic and courgette and fry together for a further five minutes. Remove from the pan.
4. Fry the beef until cooked (8-10 minutes). Then, add the onion and courgette back to the pan and mix together.
5. Add a tin of tomatoes, stock cube, herbs, tomato purée, salt & pepper, chillies if using. Mix together well.
6. Spoon the mixture into the peppers, pressing down as you go. Sprinkle cheese on top.
7. Place the peppers on a baking tray and put them into the oven for about 50 minutes.
8. Once cooked, serve with a crunchy salad and crusty bread to mop up the juices.

What to serve with gluten-free stuffed peppers

Crunchy Salad
A fresh, crunchy salad is a perfect companion to stuffed peppers. Opt for a simple green salad with mixed leaves, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Alternatively, try a Greek salad with feta, olives, and red onion for a Mediterranean twist.

Gluten-Free Bread
Serve your stuffed peppers with slices of gluten-free crusty bread or a warm gluten-free baguette. This is ideal for soaking up the delicious juices from the peppers and their filling.

Roasted Vegetables
Pair your stuffed peppers with roasted vegetables like courgettes, carrots, or aubergines. Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs before roasting for added flavour.

Rice or Quinoa
A side of plain or herbed rice works wonderfully with stuffed peppers, especially if the filling doesn’t already include rice. Quinoa is another excellent gluten-free option that adds a nutty flavour and extra protein.

Sautéed Greens

Lightly sautéed greens such as spinach, kale, or Swiss chard make a healthy and vibrant addition to your meal. Cook them with garlic and olive oil for a simple yet flavourful side dish.

Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes
For a heartier option, serve your stuffed peppers with creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes. These sides add comfort and balance to the meal.

Coleslaw or Slaw Variations
A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds crunch and freshness to the dish. For a twist, try a red cabbage slaw with apple and a light vinaigrette.

These sides will complement the flavours of your gluten-free stuffed peppers beautifully while ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied!

Are you ready to try my gluten-free stuffed peppers recipe? Then let’s get started:

Want some more vegetable-based recipes then check these out 👇

• Gluten-free mushroom pasta
• Gluten-free vegetable lasagne
• Gluten-free vegetable chilli 
• Gluten-free butternut squash risotto
• Gluten-free macaroni cheese 

Gluten-free stuffed peppers tips

Pepper Preparation

Always pre-cook your peppers before stuffing them to prevent a mushy filling. Carefully cut peppers in half or remove tops and seeds with precision. Consider boiling or baking peppers for approximately 15 minutes to soften them before adding the filling. A helpful tip is to create a small hole in the bottom of each pepper to allow excess moisture to drain, ensuring your stuffed peppers remain perfectly textured.

Filling Techniques

Your filling is the heart of the dish, so choose your proteins wisely. Versatile options include ground beef, shredded beef, sausage, rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or pork. Enhance the nutritional profile by adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and carrots. Quinoa or rice can serve as an excellent base for your filling, providing both texture and substance.

Flavor Enhancements

Seasoning is crucial in creating a memorable stuffed pepper experience. Generously use herbs and spices such as garlic powder, Italian herbs, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to elevate the flavour profile and add a spicy kick.

Cheese and Topping Options

Experiment with various cheese options to make your stuffed peppers truly special. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can provide an excellent topping, while cheese varieties like cheddar, Monterey Jack, feta, or dairy-free alternatives can add richness. Sprinkle your chosen cheese on top before the final baking to create a golden, melted finish.

Cooking Tips

Temperature and timing are key to perfect stuffed peppers. Preheat your oven to 350-375°F and bake the peppers for 30-50 minutes, depending on your specific recipe. Once cooked, allow the peppers to rest briefly before serving to help them set and make serving easier. This short resting period helps the filling stabilize and makes for a more enjoyable eating experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of meat in my stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, ground beef, ground pork, ground chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

What rice can I use in gluten-free stuffed peppers?

You can use various types of rice, including:

• White or brown rice
• Basmati rice or Quinoa (as an alternative grain)

How can I make the recipe more interesting?

Experiment with:

• Different spices like cumin, red pepper flakes, or chilli powder
• Adding extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach
• Topping with different cheeses
• Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or coriander

Are stuffed peppers naturally gluten-free?

Most stuffed pepper ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be careful to:

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed and check seasoning labels
• Ensure no flour is used in thickening sauces

Can I prepare stuffed peppers in advance

Yes! You can:

• Prepare the filling ahead of time and partially assemble the peppers
• Refrigerate for 1-2 days, freeze cooked or uncooked peppers

What are some good side dishes to serve with stuffed peppers?

If you are looking for some good side dishes to serve with your gluten-free stuffed peppers, then give these a try:

• Fresh salad
• Crusty gluten-free bread
• Roasted vegetables
• Quinoa
• Mashed potatoes

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  Cherelyn Muda replied on April 10, 2025:

  
  These were surprisingly filling and the mix inside was so flavorful—I’ll definitely make these again for meal prep.

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