These Easy Pizza Stuffed Peppers are a fun twist on pizza that uses colorful bell peppers instead of dough. They’re packed with cheese, pepperoni, and your favorite pizza toppings!
Who knew veggies could be so tasty? I like to make these when I’m craving pizza but want to eat a bit healthier. Plus, they look pretty on the plate—totally win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bell Peppers: These are the stars of the dish! Use any color—red, yellow, green, or orange. If you can’t find bell peppers, zucchini or large portobello mushrooms make great alternatives too!
Protein: I like using Italian sausage or pepperoni for a classic pizza flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or even plant-based meat works well. You can skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version!
Rice or Quinoa: Both are great fillers. I often use quinoa for its extra protein. If you want a different flavor, try using cauliflower rice or even cooked pasta instead.
Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is a must for that gooey, cheesy goodness. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using dairy-free cheese or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought pizza sauce is convenient, but making a simple homemade sauce with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs takes it to the next level!
How Do I Make Sure My Peppers Are Cooked Just Right?
Getting perfectly cooked peppers that are tender but still hold their shape is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven ahead of time—this ensures even cooking.
- Covering with foil for the first part of baking helps steam the peppers, making them tender.
- Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes so the cheese can brown nicely. Keep an eye on them; if they seem soft enough before the time is up, feel free to remove them early!
By following these steps, you’ll have deliciously stuffed peppers that everyone will love!
Easy Pizza Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni slices (optional)
- 1 cup cooked rice or cooked quinoa
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- ½ cup diced onions
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15-20 minutes to prepare and another 35 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’ll need around 55-60 minutes to make these delicious stuffed peppers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your peppers.
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
Take your bell peppers and carefully cut the tops off each one. Make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from inside. If they don’t stand up straight, you can trim the bottoms a little bit to help them stay upright.
3. Make the Stuffing:
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice (or quinoa), pizza sauce, and your choice of Italian sausage or pepperoni. Then, toss in the diced onions, tomatoes, black olives, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well!
4. Stuff the Peppers:
Take the pepper mixture and fill each bell pepper generously with the stuffing. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! They should be quite full.
5. Place in a Baking Dish:
Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish where they can stand upright. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of each pepper.
6. Bake the Peppers:
Cover the dish loosely with foil to help the peppers cook evenly and bake for 25 minutes. This helps them become tender!
7. Finish Baking:
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and get bubbly and a little golden on top!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the peppers out of the oven and let them cool for a moment. If you like, you can sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a nice touch. Serve them hot and enjoy your healthy, flavorful pizza stuffed peppers!
FAQ for Easy Pizza Stuffed Peppers
Can I Use Other Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! While bell peppers are traditional, you can use poblano peppers for a spicier kick or even hollowed-out tomatoes for a fun twist. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size and type of your chosen vegetable.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the stuffed peppers a day ahead of time. Just assemble them, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or back in the oven until warmed through. You can add a little extra cheese on top before reheating for that fresh, melty goodness!
Can I Customize the Fillings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with the stuffing. You can add various vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, different cheeses, or even swap in cooked chicken or ground beef. The sky’s the limit!
