Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers – A Flavorful & Healthy Dinner Idea

Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dinner recipe that brings together the best of land and sea? Look no further than seafood stuffed bell peppers . Packed with fresh seafood, vegetables, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making perfect seafood stuffed bell peppers , including ingredient tips, variations, and cooking secrets that will make your dish stand out.

Why You’ll Love Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers

Seafood stuffed bell peppers are a versatile and satisfying meal that combines the natural sweetness of bell peppers with the rich, savory taste of seafood. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting friends and family, this dish is sure to impress.

Here’s why this recipe should be in your culinary repertoire:

• High in protein and low in carbs
• Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants from bell peppers
• Can be customized to suit dietary preferences (gluten-free, keto-friendly, etc.)
• Easy to prepare and bake in one pan

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make seafood stuffed bell peppers , here’s what you’ll need:

For the Stuffing:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, crab, scallops, or imitation crab)
• ½ cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
• Optional: mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for topping

How to Make Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers

Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality seafood stuffed bell peppers dish at home.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Step 3: Cook the Seafood Mixture

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the seafood and cook until just done. Stir in cooked rice, tomatoes, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the seafood mixture. Top with cheese if desired.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the peppers are tender and golden on top.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot. Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers Variations

Want to mix things up? Try these tasty twists:

• Cheesy Seafood Stuffed Peppers : Add mozzarella or goat cheese to the filling.
• Keto-Friendly Version : Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Spicy Kick : Increase the cayenne or add diced jalapeños.
• Vegetarian Option : Replace seafood with chickpeas or lentils for a meatless version.

Nutrition Benefits of Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers

This dish is not only flavorful but also highly nutritious:

• Bell Peppers : Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Seafood : High in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Herbs & Spices : Boost flavor without adding calories or sodium.

It’s an excellent choice for anyone following a heart-healthy or weight-conscious diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make seafood stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can assemble the peppers and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

A: Absolutely. Freeze unbaked stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

Q: What kind of seafood works best?