Easy Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers Recipe: A Quick & Delicious Family Favorite

Prepare to amaze your friends and family with this incredibly simple and satisfying Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers recipe. They’ll never guess just how low-maintenance and effortlessly easy it was to create these flavor-packed stuffed peppers with rice!

Here in our household, stuffed peppers are more than just a meal; they’re a celebrated staple. My husband, for instance, has a predictable trio of dinner requests: Parmesan Almond Tilapia, Stuffed Peppers, or the ever-elusive “I dunno…” While the latter can sometimes be a source of playful frustration (isn’t it funny how such a simple phrase can spark a mini-dilemma?), it invariably leads us to one glorious solution: Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Rice.

Why Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers Are a Weeknight Win

There’s a reason this dish holds such a special place in our dinner rotation. Beyond the undeniable deliciousness, this Instant Pot stuffed peppers recipe is remarkably easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a true win-win situation in our kitchen. Not only do we get a wholesome and delicious meal, but it also becomes an opportunity for the kids to get involved in the cooking process.

Involving the Kids in the Kitchen

My older children often lend a hand with the prep, learning valuable life skills as they chop vegetables or measure ingredients. Even our little one loves to participate, eagerly pressing buttons on the Instant Pot – a task that fills him with immense pride. And speaking of pride, here’s a little secret for parents of picky eaters: let them help you cook!

It’s truly astonishing how quickly a child’s willingness to try something new expands when they’re bursting with pride from helping to create it. This strategy works wonders on my kids, without fail, every single time. It transforms mealtime from a potential battleground into an exciting culinary adventure.

So, gather your ingredients, call the family to the kitchen, and let’s dive into making these incredible Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers!

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect stuffed peppers starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful and filling dish:

• 4 large bell peppers (green, red, yellow, or orange – deseeded and tops removed)
• 1 lb. lean ground beef or ground turkey (for a lighter option)
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly ground is best)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 medium tomato, finely diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup (adds incredible depth of flavor)
• 2 cups water (for cooking the filling)
• ¼ cup water (for steaming the peppers later)
• 1 ½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice (such as Basmati or Jasmine)
• 1 tbsp. coconut oil (or olive oil)
• Shredded cheese, as desired (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend work wonderfully)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

Follow these detailed steps to create delicious Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers that are tender and bursting with flavor:

1. Prepare the Cooker and Sauté Onions: Begin by setting your Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker to the “Sauté” mode on normal or medium heat. Once the inner pot is hot (a drop of water should sizzle), add the coconut oil. Add the finely diced onions and sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent, fragrant, and slightly caramelized. This step builds a foundational layer of flavor.
2. Brown the Meat and Add Seasoning: Add the ground lean beef or turkey to the pot with the sautéed onions. Break the meat into small pieces using a wooden spoon or spatula. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Continue to brown the meat thoroughly, cooking until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. If using a fattier meat, you may want to drain any excess grease at this point for a healthier result.
3. Incorporate Rice and Liquids: Stir in the diced tomato, the can of French onion soup, the uncooked rice, and 2 cups of water. Mix all ingredients well, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid. Be mindful of the liquid level; there will be some natural liquid released from the meat. The goal is to have enough liquid to cook the rice thoroughly without making the mixture overly wet or mushy.
4. Pressure Cook the Filling: Cancel the “Sauté” mode. Secure the lid on your pressure cooker, making sure it is properly locked. Rotate the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Set your Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode on high pressure for 8 minutes.
5. Quick Release and Finish Filling: Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully moving the steam release valve to the “Venting” position. Stand clear of the steam. Once the float valve drops, carefully open the lid. Stir the rice and meat mixture thoroughly. Now is the perfect time to stir in your desired amount of shredded cheese, allowing it to melt into the hot mixture.
6. Prepare and Stuff the Peppers: While the filling is still warm, carefully stuff the deseeded bell peppers with the cooked rice and meat mixture. Pack them generously but not so tightly that the filling spills out. Set the stuffed peppers aside on a plate.
7. Steam the Stuffed Peppers: Remove any excess filling from the Instant Pot liner (you can save this as a side dish or for leftovers). Pour ¼ cup of water into the bottom of the clean inner pot. Carefully place the stuffed peppers back into the Instant Pot. You may use a trivet if you prefer, but it’s not strictly necessary for this recipe as the peppers won’t be submerged.
8. Final Pressure Cooking (Steaming): Secure the lid again, ensuring the steam release valve is in the “Sealing” position. Set the Instant Pot to “Steam” mode for 4 minutes, or alternatively, use “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 4 minutes. This step gently cooks the bell peppers to a tender-crisp perfection.
9. Release Pressure and Serve: Once the cooking time is up, you can either do a quick release or allow for a natural pressure release for 5-10 minutes followed by a quick release. Carefully open the lid. Your Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers are now ready! Serve them hot and enjoy this delicious, wholesome meal.

Tips for Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Success

To ensure your stuffed peppers turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Bell Pepper Selection: While green bell peppers are traditional, feel free to use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a sweeter flavor and a pop of color. Make sure they are large enough to hold a good amount of filling.
• Rice Variety: Long-grain white rice is recommended as it cooks consistently. If you prefer brown rice, adjust the initial cooking time for the filling (Step 4) to 15-20 minutes, as brown rice requires longer to cook.
• Meat Variations: Ground turkey provides a leaner alternative, but ground chicken or a mix of ground pork and beef can also be used for different flavor profiles.
• Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the French onion soup! It adds a unique savory depth that truly elevates the dish. For an extra kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the meat mixture.
• Avoid Overfilling: While you want generously stuffed peppers, don’t pack them too tightly. Leave a little room at the top to prevent the filling from spilling out during the final steaming.
• Picky Eaters Trick: As mentioned, involve your kids! Letting them help with simple tasks like mixing the filling or placing the peppers in the Instant Pot can dramatically increase their willingness to try (and love!) this meal.

Variations to Customize Your Stuffed Peppers

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations:

• Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheeses! A Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or even some smoked gouda can add a unique twist. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before serving.
• Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the meat and rice mixture for added nutrients and texture. Sauté them along with the onions.
• Spice It Up: Include a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little heat.
• Saucy Topping: Drizzle your cooked peppers with a dollop of marinara sauce, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a spoonful of sour cream before serving.
• Herb Power: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano can be stirred into the filling for a burst of fresh flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers are fantastic! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Allow the peppers to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual peppers in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, until heated through. You can cover them with foil to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: Stuffed peppers freeze well. Wrap individual cooked peppers tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Information

This recipe provides a balanced meal with excellent macros. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used (e.g., lean vs. regular ground beef, type of rice, amount of cheese).

Calories: 306 cal
Fat: 14 g
Carbs: 9 g
Protein: 33 g

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Instant Pot Meal!

This Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers recipe truly embodies the spirit of easy, delicious, and family-friendly cooking. It’s a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and even a bit of culinary adventure into your home without requiring hours in the kitchen. The convenience of the Instant Pot means you get perfectly cooked rice and tender peppers every time, making it a reliable choice for any day of the week.

So, whether you’re looking to impress guests, satisfy a family craving, or simply enjoy a hearty, homemade meal, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. Give it a try, and taste the difference that simplicity and a great recipe can make!

Not making these fantastic stuffed peppers right this instant? No problem! Pin this recipe so you can easily find it once you’re ready to get cooking and add this delicious meal to your repertoire!