If there’s a dish that brings our family together time and again, it’s definitely stuffed peppers! Among all the delicious fillings we enjoy, our Cajun-seasoned stuffing holds a special place in our hearts. These peppers are vibrant, slightly spicy, and brimming with savory goodness that will surely excite your taste buds. The best part? You can adjust the heat to suit your preferences!

These stuffed peppers offer a hearty combination of meat, rice, and lots of spices for an addictively flavorful meal that Cajun lovers will adore. But no need to be limited to just beef! Feel free to switch things up with cooked rice and choose alternatives like pork tenderloin, chicken, or even succulent shrimp.

For those who prefer a more traditional approach, you might like the classic Mom’s Style Stuffed Peppers, which features the classic combination of meat and rice. And if you’re looking for another cozy option, don’t miss out on my comforting Stuffed Pepper Soup, which is incredibly easy to whip up.

Ready to dive in? Check out the easy recipe below, and don’t worry—it’s printable! Just scroll to the bottom for all the details, including helpful tips and suggestions to elevate your Cajun stuffed peppers.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (for softer peppers, consider pre-boiling them for 12 minutes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1/2 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
• Stuffing/Filling:
• 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground chicken, turkey, pork, or small cooked shrimp)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 (14.5 ounces) can of diced stewed tomatoes, drained
• 1 small 4-ounce can of tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar, mozzarella, jack cheese, or Havarti
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds gently using a sharp knife. If you prefer, you can cut them in half lengthwise for easier filling.
3. To ensure softer peppers, consider lightly boiling them in salted water for about 12 minutes.
4. Brush the bell peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a suitable oven-proof casserole dish.

Filling Preparation

5. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
6. In the hot skillet, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and green bell pepper for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.
7. Add the ground meat of your choice to the skillet, stirring to combine. If you’re using a fatty meat, drain any excess grease.
8. Mix in drained stewed tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
9. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for around 4 minutes, then stir in the cooked rice and half of the shredded cheese.
10. Using a scoop or spoon, fill each bell pepper generously with the stuffing mixture.
11. If desired, top the filled peppers with more shredded cheese for extra gooeyness!
12. Pour the tomato sauce around the bottom of the dish and drizzle lightly over the peppers.
13. Cover the dish and bake for 25 minutes. For added flavor, uncover for the last few minutes to let the cheese brown up nicely.

Shopping List for Cajun Stuffed Peppers

• Rice: Use cooked brown or white rice to suit your taste.
• Meats: Choose from ground beef, chicken, turkey, or pork, or for a seafood twist, opt for shrimp.
• Spices: Don’t forget Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
• Vegetables: Gather onions, garlic, celery, and bell peppers to create the base.
• Tomatoes: Use both tomato sauce and diced stewed tomatoes for depth of flavor.
• Cheese: Shredded varieties such as white cheddar, Havarti, or Jack work beautifully.

Creative Alternatives for Stuffing Peppers

If you want to mix things up, consider these delicious alternatives:

• Black olives for added brininess
• Beans (chickpeas are our personal favorite!)
• Diced zucchini or eggplant for a veggie boost
• Shredded carrots for some added sweetness
• Peas or chopped asparagus for a delightful crunch

Helpful Tips for the Best Cajun Stuffed Peppers

• Feel free to use any kind of cooked rice, whether it’s brown, white, or even wild rice.
• Ensure your meat is fully thawed before cooking. If you end up with greasy meat, pat it dry after draining the fat.
• For seafood lovers, small cooked shrimp make a lovely substitute.
• If you’re aiming for softer peppers, either microwave them for about 3 minutes or boil them for 12 minutes before stuffing.
• For a crispy topping, you can broil the peppers on medium heat for 2 minutes—keep a close eye on them!
• Use an assortment of bell peppers in various colors for a vibrant dish!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these stuffed peppers vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the meat and fill the peppers with a mixture of beans, rice, and your favorite vegetables.

How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for about 3-4 days!

Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes! After baking, let the peppers cool, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and keep them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What are some great sides to serve with stuffed peppers?

Consider pairing your stuffed peppers with a fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.