Greek Stuffed Peppers with Tzatziki Sauce

Picture this: vibrant bell peppers stuffed with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, fresh herbs, and tangy feta, all topped off with a generous drizzle of creamy, cooling tzatziki sauce. These Greek Stuffed Peppers with Tzatziki Sauce are bursting with flavor in every bite and are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or bringing them to a potluck, they’re sure to wow anyone who tries them. The combination of Mediterranean ingredients with that refreshing tzatziki on top makes this dish feel both comforting and exciting at the same time. Trust me, once you taste this, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Greek Stuffed Peppers with Tzatziki Sauce

Here’s why this dish is going to steal the show:

• Bold Mediterranean Flavors: The mix of spices, fresh herbs, and tangy feta is the perfect balance of flavors you’ll crave.
• Hearty and Filling: These stuffed peppers are packed with a delicious filling that will keep you satisfied.
• Healthy-ish Comfort Food: With fresh ingredients like peppers, lean meat, and a creamy tzatziki topping, this dish is lighter than most stuffed peppers but still indulgent.
• Easy to Make: While it looks impressive, this dish is simple to assemble and doesn’t require a ton of time in the kitchen.
• Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week, whether as a quick dinner or lunch.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for these Greek-inspired stuffed peppers:

• Bell Peppers: The base of the dish, providing both color and crunch. Choose any color you like—red, yellow, or green.
• Ground Beef or Turkey: Lean ground meat gives the dish its savory flavor. Ground lamb is another great option for a more traditional Greek flavor.
• Cooked Rice: Adds a filling and hearty texture to the stuffing. Feel free to use quinoa for a gluten-free twist.
• Feta Cheese: A salty, tangy addition that really takes the filling to the next level.
• Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that create a flavorful base for the stuffing.
• Dried Oregano and Cumin: Mediterranean spices that bring an unmistakable flavor to the dish.
• Tomato Paste and Diced Tomatoes: For a bit of sweetness and acidity that balances out the richness of the meat and cheese.
• Tzatziki Sauce: The creamy and refreshing topping that adds the perfect cooling contrast to the warm peppers.
• Olive Oil: For cooking and drizzling over the peppers to enhance their flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course.

(Note: Exact measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s bring these Greek stuffed peppers to life:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything will cook evenly and get that golden, bubbly finish.
2. Prepare the Peppers: Slice the tops off your bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly so they stand upright. Set aside.
3. Make the Filling: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef (or turkey/lamb) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add cooked rice and feta cheese, and mix everything until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to pack it in. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with a little more olive oil on top.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender. For a golden finish, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
6. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the peppers rest for a few minutes. Serve each pepper with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on top and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350 kcal
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 20g
Vitamin A: 25% DV
Vitamin C: 80% DV
Calcium: 15% DV
Iron: 20% DV

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Greek Stuffed Peppers with Tzatziki Sauce

This dish pairs perfectly with several sides to create a complete meal:

• With a Simple Salad: A Greek salad with cucumber, olives, and feta is a fresh and crunchy side to balance the richness of the peppers.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, eggplant, or sweet potatoes make for a delicious, hearty side.
• With Warm Pita Bread: Serve with warm pita to scoop up any extra tzatziki sauce and enjoy every last bit of the filling.
• With Couscous or Quinoa: For a light, grain-based side that complements the flavors of the stuffed peppers.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to elevate your Greek stuffed peppers:

• Add More Veggies: You can add spinach, kale, or even chopped zucchini to the filling for more veggies and extra flavor.
• Use Ground Lamb for Authenticity: If you want to go all out Greek, substitute ground lamb for the beef or turkey for a richer flavor.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Make Extra Tzatziki: If you’re a fan of tzatziki, make a little extra to serve as a dipping sauce on the side.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Q2: Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
A2: Yes! Quinoa works beautifully as a substitute for rice, adding extra protein and texture to the dish.

Q3: Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
A3: Yes! After baking, allow the peppers to cool, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Q5: Can I use ground chicken instead of beef?
A5: Yes, ground chicken or turkey would work great as a leaner alternative to beef.

Q6: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A6: Absolutely! You can use cooked lentils or chickpeas in place of the ground meat for a vegetarian version.

Q7: How do I make my tzatziki sauce thicker?
A7: If your tzatziki sauce is too thin, simply drain the yogurt before mixing or add a bit more grated cucumber.

Q8: Can I make this recipe spicy?
A8: Yes! Add red pepper flakes to the filling or drizzle a bit of hot sauce on top for some heat.

Q9: Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
A9: You can try goat cheese, ricotta, or mozzarella for a different twist on the dish.

Q10: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A10: Simply ensure the rice is gluten-free, and if using store-bought tzatziki, check that it’s gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

These Greek Stuffed Peppers with Tzatziki Sauce are the perfect blend of savory, fresh, and comforting flavors. With a filling that’s rich and satisfying, plus that refreshing tzatziki on top, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. With easy prep and a delicious payoff, this recipe will become a regular in your cooking rotation. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Print