We can’t resist the bold, tangy kick of feta cheese paired with hearty ground beef—it’s a match that turns everyday meals into flavorful adventures. Drawing from Mediterranean roots, this dynamic duo brings a touch of authentic zest to your table, whether you’re whipping up quick dinners or impressing guests.
These versatile recipes promise to elevate your cooking game with ease. We’ve curated options that are simple to prepare yet packed with taste, so you’ll want to try them again and again.
Ingredients
In our exploration of feta cheese and ground beef recipes, we focus on a standout dish: Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers. This combination delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavors, with the tangy crumble of feta cheese pairing perfectly with the hearty richness of ground beef. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are used, including prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
For the Stuffed Peppers (Serves 4)
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean (90% or higher) for less fat; we’ll brown it first to build a flavorful base.
- 4 large bell peppers: Select red or green varieties; wash, core, and halve them lengthwise for stuffing.
- 1 cup feta cheese: Crumbled for even distribution; opt for authentic Greek feta cheese to enhance the tangy, creamy notes.
- 1 medium onion: Finely chopped; we’ll sauté it with the ground beef for added sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced; this aromatic addition infuses the mixture with a pungent, savory kick.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Use long-grain for fluffiness; prepare it in advance to mix into the beef filling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Extra-virgin for sautéing; it helps caramelize the onions and garlic.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Crushed for maximum flavor release; a staple herb that complements the Mediterranean theme.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste; season the ground beef mixture for balanced flavors.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, about 2 tablespoons; reserve some for garnish to add a fresh, herbaceous finish.
This ingredient list ensures our recipe is straightforward and yields a dish that’s not only nutritious but also packed with sensory appeal—from the melt-in-your-mouth texture of feta cheese to the robust, savory essence of ground beef. Stay tuned for the preparation steps in the next section.
Required Tools and Equipment
To bring our Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers to life, we need a selection of essential tools and equipment that ensure smooth preparation and optimal results. Building on our ingredient list, these items help us handle chopping, mixing, cooking, and baking efficiently.
Essential Tools List
We recommend the following tools, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Cutting board and sharp knife: We use these for safely chopping onions, garlic, and bell peppers, ensuring even pieces that cook uniformly and enhance the dish’s texture.
- Large mixing bowl: This is key for combining ground beef, crumbled feta cheese, cooked rice, and seasonings, allowing us to mix ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Skillet or frying pan (10-12 inches): We rely on this to brown the lean ground beef, infusing it with flavors from garlic and dried oregano for a savory base.
- Baking dish (9×13 inches): Ideal for arranging and baking the stuffed peppers, it provides even heat distribution to achieve a tender, flavorful finish.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is crucial, so we use these to measure ingredients like olive oil and salt precisely, guaranteeing consistent results every time.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: We employ this for stirring mixtures and stuffing peppers, making the process effortless and preventing sticking.
- Oven thermometer: For precision baking, we suggest this tool to verify our oven reaches the required 375°F, ensuring the peppers cook perfectly without over-browning.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, transforming our ingredients into a mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools prepared, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our flavorful Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers. Follow these for a perfectly balanced dish bursting with Mediterranean tastes.
Prep Work
Before cooking begins, let’s organize our ingredients for efficiency. Start by chopping 1 medium onion and 2 cloves of garlic finely to release their aromatic flavors. Next, core and halve 4 large bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes to create perfect vessels for stuffing—these vibrant peppers will hold the hearty filling beautifully. Measure out 1 cup of cooked rice, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper into a large mixing bowl for easy access. Finally, crumble 1 cup of feta cheese and chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, setting them aside to maintain their fresh, tangy notes that elevate the dish’s sensory appeal.
Cooking the Ground Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add 1 pound of lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it sizzles. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef browns evenly and releases its rich, savory juices, stirring occasionally to ensure no pieces stick. Once browned, drain any excess fat, then stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they soften and infuse the meat with their fragrant essence. Add the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to coat the beef in a bold, herbaceous blend that forms the dish’s hearty base.
Incorporating Feta Cheese
With the ground beef mixture still warm in the skillet, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and cooked rice, stirring until the cheese begins to melt slightly and creates creamy pockets of tanginess amidst the savory beef. This step takes about 1-2 minutes and ensures the feta integrates seamlessly, adding a delightful contrast of salty, crumbly texture that enhances the overall Mediterranean flair. Avoid over-stirring to preserve the cheese’s distinct chunks, which provide a sensory burst in every bite.
Assembling and Serving
Stuff each halved bell pepper generously with the beef and feta mixture, packing it firmly but not overly tight to allow for even baking. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the peppers soften and the flavors meld into a tender, aromatic masterpiece. For serving, uncover and bake an additional 5 minutes to lightly brown the tops, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness—serve hot to savor the warm, juicy filling paired with the peppers’ mild sweetness.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers even more convenient for busy weeknights, we recommend preparing components in advance. This approach allows us to save time while preserving the dish’s vibrant Mediterranean flavors and textures.
Preparing the Filling Ahead
We can streamline the process by making the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Start by browning the ground beef in olive oil, then add chopped onion and minced garlic as outlined in the preparation steps. Once cooled, mix in the crumbled feta cheese, cooked rice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly to maintain freshness.
Assembling the Peppers in Advance
For full assembly, we suggest stuffing the bell peppers with the prepared filling up to one day ahead. Clean and hollow out the peppers, fill them generously, and place them in a baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store it in the refrigerator. This method ensures the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste without compromising the peppers’ crispness.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage is key to keeping our dish safe and delicious. Below, we outline recommended storage times and methods in a table for quick reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Keep at 40°F or below; use within 1 day for optimal texture and flavor. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Wrap stuffed peppers individually in freezer-safe wrap; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. |
| Reheating | N/A | Bake from refrigerated at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or from frozen at 375°F for 45-50 minutes until heated through to 165°F internally. |
By following these steps, we ensure our Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers remain a flavorful, hassle-free option that delivers on both convenience and taste. Always check for signs of spoilage before reheating to prioritize food safety.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how feta cheese and ground beef bring bold, Mediterranean vibes to your table. These recipes offer simple ways to elevate everyday eats, making them perfect for any occasion.
As we wrap up, we’re confident you’ll discover new favorites that add excitement to your meals. Dive in, experiment, and enjoy the fresh flavors that make cooking an adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers?
Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers is a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring bell peppers stuffed with a mix of lean ground beef, crumbled feta cheese, onions, garlic, cooked rice, and herbs. It’s a nutritious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for quick dinners or entertaining, blending savory beef with tangy feta for a burst of taste.
What ingredients are needed for Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers?
The main ingredients include lean ground beef, bell peppers, crumbled feta cheese, onion, garlic, cooked rice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. This simple list ensures a balanced, flavorful filling that’s straightforward to prepare and packed with Mediterranean flair.
How do you prepare Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers?
Start by chopping onions, garlic, and preparing bell peppers. Brown the ground beef in olive oil with onions and garlic in a skillet. Mix in feta cheese, cooked rice, and seasonings. Stuff the mixture into bell peppers, place in a baking dish, and bake at 375°F until tender, about 30-40 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Can Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by browning the beef and mixing ingredients, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also stuff the peppers a day ahead and refrigerate them, allowing flavors to meld while keeping the peppers crisp for easy weeknight meals.
How should I store and reheat Feta and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave for 2-3 minutes. This keeps the dish safe, moist, and flavorful.