Delicious and Easy Bell Pepper Recipes You’ll Love

Bell peppers are one of those versatile veggies that can transform any dish into a colorful, flavorful masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, there’s a bell pepper recipe out there that’s perfect for you. Today, I’m going to share some of my favorite easy and delicious bell pepper recipes that have become staples in my Nashville kitchen. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of bell peppers!

Ever since I moved from the Bay Area to Nashville, I’ve been blown away by the local food scene. The vibrant colors and flavors of bell peppers have become a staple in my cooking, and I can’t wait to share some of my favorite recipes with you. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for a special occasion, these recipes have got you covered.

Why Bell Peppers?

Before we jump into the recipes, let’s talk about why bell peppers are such a fantastic ingredient. They’re not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Bell peppers are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. Plus, they come in a variety of colors—green, red, yellow, and orange—each with its unique flavor profile.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Classic Favorite

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Place the bell peppers in a baking dish and spoon the meat mixture into each pepper.
7. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

I love this recipe because it’s so customizable. You can use any ground meat you prefer, and the rice can be swapped out for quinoa or couscous. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the next recipe.

Bell Pepper and Onion Sauté: Simple and Versatile

Ingredients:

• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the peppers and onions are softened and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).

This bell pepper and onion sauté is a fantastic side dish that pairs well with just about anything. I’ve served it with grilled chicken, steak, and even as a topping for burgers. Maybe I should clarify that you can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for an extra kick of flavor. It’s versatile and delicious, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Is it a great staple?

Bell Pepper Soup: Comfort in a Bowl

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. If using, stir in the heavy cream.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread.

This bell pepper soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and full of flavor. You can make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth, or add a bit of cream for a richer taste. I’m torn between the simplicity of the sauté and the comfort of the soup, but ultimately, both are winners in my book.

Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet and Smoky

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the bell peppers on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are charred and blistered.
5. Transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let them steam for 10 minutes.
6. Peel the skin off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
7. Slice the peppers and serve.

Roasted bell peppers are a game-changer. They add a smoky, sweet flavor to salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make. I often roast a batch on the weekend and use them throughout the week. It’s a great way to add depth to your meals with minimal effort.

Bell Pepper and Chickpea Curry: A Spicy Twist

Ingredients:

• 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chickpeas and coconut milk. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the curry has thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.

This curry is a fantastic way to incorporate bell peppers into a flavorful, spicy dish. The combination of curry spices and coconut milk creates a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect for a cozy night in. I love how the bell peppers add a crunchy texture and a burst of freshness to the curry.

Bell Pepper Pasta: A Quick and Easy Meal

Ingredients:

• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz pasta (any shape)
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Toss the cooked pasta with the bell pepper sauce.
6. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (if using).

This pasta dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It comes together in just 30 minutes and is packed with flavor. The bell peppers add a lovely crunch and a pop of color to the pasta. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have on hand.

Bell Pepper Fajitas: A Fiesta of Flavor

Ingredients:

• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 lb chicken or beef, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced meat to the skillet and cook until browned.
4. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Serve the fajita mixture in tortillas with your choice of toppings.

These fajitas are a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings. I love how the bell peppers add a vibrant color and a slight sweetness to the dish. It’s a fiesta of flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.

Bell Pepper Stir-Fry: A Healthy Option

Ingredients:

• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 lb chicken or tofu, sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced chicken or tofu to the skillet and cook until browned.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, and grated ginger.
5. Pour the sauce over the stir-fry and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds (if using) and serve hot.

This stir-fry is a healthy and delicious option for a quick meal. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and ginger creates a flavorful sauce that complements the bell peppers beautifully. I often make this dish when I’m craving something light and satisfying.

Bell Pepper and Eggplant Ratatouille: A French Classic

Ingredients:

• 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 eggplant, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped bell peppers, onion, eggplant, zucchini, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread.

This ratatouille is a classic French dish that’s perfect for showcasing the flavors of bell peppers. The combination of vegetables creates a rich, hearty stew that’s comforting and delicious. I love serving this dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful juices.

Bell Pepper and Quinoa Salad: A Fresh and Light Meal

Ingredients:

• 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can corn, drained and rinsed
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped bell peppers, cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This quinoa salad is a refreshing and light meal that’s perfect for summer. The bell peppers add a lovely crunch and a burst of color to the salad. I love how the lime dressing ties all the flavors together. It’s a great dish to bring to a potluck or picnic.

Embrace the Versatility of Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are truly a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish. From stuffed peppers to sautés, soups to stir-fries, there’s no shortage of delicious and easy recipes to try. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these recipes are sure to become staples in your cooking repertoire.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some bell peppers and get cooking! Feel free to mix and match ingredients, experiment with different spices, and make these recipes your own. The beauty of cooking is that there’s always room for creativity and personalization.l

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen bell peppers in these recipes?
A: Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers in most of these recipes. Just make sure to thaw them before using.

Q: Are bell peppers spicy?
A: No, bell peppers are not spicy. They are sweet and mild in flavor.

Q: Can I substitute other vegetables for bell peppers in these recipes?
A: Yes, you can substitute other vegetables like zucchini, squash, or mushrooms in these recipes. However, the flavor and texture will be different.

Q: How long do bell peppers last in the fridge?
A: Bell peppers typically last about 1-2 weeks in the fridge when stored properly.

@article{delicious-and-easy-bell-pepper-recipes-youll-love,
    title   = {Delicious and Easy Bell Pepper Recipes You’ll Love},
    author  = {Chef's icon},
    year    = {2025},
    journal = {Chef's Icon},
    url     = {https://chefsicon.com/bell-pepper-recipes-delicious-easy/}
}