Healthy Dinner Lentil Stuffed Peppers

Name: Healthy Dinner Lentil Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown); 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (optional); 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Inspiration

I absolutely love making these Healthy Dinner Lentil Stuffed Peppers! They are not only vibrant and visually appealing, but they are also packed with nutrients and flavor. Each pepper is a little vessel of goodness, filled with lentils, spices, and vegetables. I appreciate how easily this dish comes together, making it perfect for a weeknight family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies, ensuring that you and your family get a wholesome meal without compromising on taste.

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:57:35.372Z

When I first made these lentil stuffed peppers, I was pleasantly surprised by how satisfying and filling they were. I never thought a plant-based dish could be so hearty! The mix of lentils with spices and vegetables created a delightful flavor profile that reminded me of home-cooked meals.

I find that using bell peppers not only makes this meal colorful but also adds a sweet crunch that complements the earthiness of the lentils. To enhance the flavors even further, I usually add a sprinkle of cheese on top before baking, which melts beautifully and brings everything together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious filling made with lentils and fresh veggies
Colorful presentation that brightens up your dinner table
Delicious and satisfying, perfect for both dinner and meal prep

      

Understanding the Filling

The filling for these lentil stuffed peppers is not only nutritious but also customizable. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, helping to keep you satisfied. They absorb the flavors of the spices well, creating a harmonious blend. If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider incorporating diced zucchini or chopped spinach into the mix. This will not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add more color and texture, making each bite a delightful experience.

Using spices like cumin and smoked paprika elevates the dish from basic to extraordinary. Cumin offers earthiness, while smoked paprika adds a depth that pairs beautifully with the sweet bell pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you want to make it spicier—try adding a dash of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños for a kick!

Prepping and Storing

This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble the stuffed peppers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Just ensure they are covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep them fresh. If you plan to freeze them, prepare the filling without the cheese, stuff the peppers, and wrap each one individually in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to eat the frozen peppers, defrost them in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as instructed, adding cheese towards the end. This way, you can enjoy a satisfying homemade meal even on the busiest of nights!

Ingredients

Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (optional)
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Cook Mixture

In a pan over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and garlic until translucent. Add the cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it cook for about 5 minutes.

Fill Peppers

If using rice or quinoa, mix it into the lentil mixture. Spoon the filling into each bell pepper until they are generously stuffed.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. If using cheese, uncover and add it on top of the stuffed peppers, then bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious and healthy dinner!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding spices like chili powder or oregano to the filling. You can also use different types of beans instead of lentils for variety.

Serving Suggestions

These healthy lentil stuffed peppers can be served as a complete meal or as a hearty side dish. I like to pair them with a light salad or a side of steamed vegetables to balance the meal. Consider drizzling a tangy vinaigrette over the salad to complement the earthy flavors of the stuffed peppers.

For those looking for a twist, serve the peppers on a bed of quinoa or couscous. This adds a hearty texture and makes the dish even more filling. You can also offer a variety of sauces, like a spicy chili sauce or a creamy yogurt dressing, for guests to drizzle on top according to their preferences.

Making It Vegan

It's simple to make this recipe vegan-friendly! Simply omit the cheese on top or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. The filling itself is already vegan, thanks to the lentils and vegetables, making it a wholesome option for those following a plant-based diet.

If you'd like to enhance the imitation cheese texture, blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and garlic powder to create a creamy, spreadable topping to enjoy on top of the peppers before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the peppers and filling in advance, then stuff and bake them when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for lentils?

You can use black beans, chickpeas, or even ground turkey for a non-vegetarian option.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Yes! These stuffed peppers freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container.