Healthy Dinner Lentil Stuffed Peppers

Name: Healthy Dinner Lentil Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers; 1 cup cooked lentils; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Collection

I love a good stuffed pepper, and these Healthy Dinner Lentil Stuffed Peppers are a game changer! They’re not only packed with flavor but also bursting with nutrients. Lentils provide a hearty base full of plant-based protein and fiber, while the vibrant peppers add a pop of color and sweetness. I particularly enjoy making these on busy nights since they can be prepared in just under an hour. Plus, they make for excellent leftovers, perfect for lunch the next day!

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:03:34.484Z

When I first experimented with lentil stuffed peppers, I was amazed by how many flavors could be packed into one dish! I tried various spices, but found that a blend of cumin, paprika, and garlic really elevated the earthy taste of the lentils. The best tip I can share is to let the filling cool slightly before stuffing the peppers; this helps retain their shape and ensures even cooking.

Not only are these peppers filling and satisfying, but they're also incredibly versatile. You can switch up the vegetables or even add some cheese on top if you're feeling indulgent. I've made these several times now, and they never fail to impress!

        Why You'll Love These Peppers
        Nutritious and hearty lentil filling that's satisfying
Colorful and vibrant presentation
Easily customizable with your favorite spices
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

Choosing and Preparing Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for your stuffed peppers, aim for large, firm ones to ensure they hold their shape during baking. Look for peppers with vibrantly colored skin—red, yellow, or orange— as they tend to be sweeter than green peppers. If you're feeling adventurous, consider using poblano or Anaheim peppers for a spicy kick. Before stuffing, ensure to cut off the tops cleanly to create a generous opening for the filling; removing the seeds is critical for a smoother texture and flavor.

To enhance the flavor of the peppers before baking, you can lightly brush their insides with olive oil and sprinkle a touch of salt. This step not only infuses the peppers with flavor but also helps them caramelize beautifully during baking. Baking them upright in a sturdy dish prevents them from toppling over, so choose a deep pan for stability. Don’t worry if the peppers look a bit wrinkled after baking; this is a sign they’ve become tender and concentrated in flavor.

Perfecting the Lentil Filling

The cooked lentils serve as the heart of your stuffing, offering a robust texture and a wealth of plant-based protein. You can use canned lentils for convenience, but if time allows, cooking dried lentils enhances their flavor. To cook them, simmer for about 20-30 minutes until tender but not mushy. Mixing in diced tomatoes adds moisture and a slight acidity, which perfectly balances the earthiness of the lentils and spices, so don’t skip this ingredient.

Customization is key when crafting your lentil stuffing. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste—adding chili powder for heat or chopped spinach for extra nutrition can transform your filling. When combining ingredients in the skillet, aim for a fragrant, cohesive mixture after about 5 minutes. If the filling seems too dry, a splash of vegetable broth or water can help. Remember, it should be moist but not runny to prevent soggy peppers.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers
1 cup cooked lentils
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Now you’re ready to put your delicious peppers together!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your lentil stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

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

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent. Stir in the cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the lentil filling into each prepared bell pepper until they are well filled. If desired, top with cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the filling or topping the stuffed peppers with avocado slices before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Once you’ve enjoyed your delightful lentil stuffed peppers, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making them even tastier the next day! If you’re thinking of meal prepping, consider assembling the peppers without baking them first. Store the filled peppers in the fridge for up to a day before baking; just allow an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven since they’ll be starting from a cooler temperature.

For reheating, place stuffed peppers in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, if you're short on time, you can microwave individual peppers for 2-3 minutes on high. Just be mindful that the microwave may make the peppers a bit softer in texture compared to oven reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

While this recipe focuses on the nutritious lentil filling, feel free to mix things up with other ingredients you have on hand. Quinoa or brown rice can serve as great substitutes for lentils if you’re looking for a different texture. For extra protein, consider adding crumbled feta cheese, shredded chicken, or black beans into the filling mix. You could also experiment with different cheeses on top; mozzarella or a spicy pepper jack can elevate the dish.

In terms of spices, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or dill for an aromatic twist. Swapping in different spices such as turmeric or curry powder can turn this dish into an entirely new flavor profile, showcasing how versatile stuffed peppers can be. Don't hesitate to add your personal flair—after all, the best recipes come from a bit of creativity in the kitchen!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to mix in or replace ingredients like corn, zucchini, or even quinoa for added texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked or cooked stuffed peppers. Just ensure they're tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight freezer-safe container.