When it comes to adding flavor, texture, and color to your dishes, few ingredients are as versatile and delicious as bell peppers and onions. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these two vegetables can elevate any recipe from ordinary to extraordinary. In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful recipes that feature bell peppers and onions as the stars of the show.
From hearty skillet dinners to vibrant salads and savory pastas, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal. So let’s get cooking!
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Onions
This classic recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender bell peppers filled with savory ground beef, onions, and spices are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, followed by cooked rice and shredded cheese (if using).
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
A simple and flavorful stir-fry that combines the sweetness of bell peppers and onions with the savory taste of soy sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the onions and bell peppers, and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Bell Pepper and Onion Skewers
Elevate your backyard BBQs with these sweet and savory skewers, featuring tender bell peppers and onions smothered in a hint of olive oil and seasoning. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread bell peppers and onions onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto the skewered vegetables.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Frittata
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious frittata packed with sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Add the diced bell peppers and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetable mixture in the skillet.
7. Cook until the edges start to set (about 2-3 minutes).
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the frittata is fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
Caramelized Bell Peppers and Onions with Balsamic Glaze
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for topping burgers, sandwiches, or using as a side dish. The caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness in bell peppers and onions, while the balsamic glaze adds a tangy and rich flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the bell peppers and onions to the skillet, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are caramelized and tender.
4. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the glaze to thicken.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines sautéed bell peppers and onions with melted cheese and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 small flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, and avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bell peppers and onions; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese.
5. Add the cooked pepper mixture on half of the tortilla.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Pizza with Fresh Basil
This vibrant pizza combines the sweetness of caramelized bell peppers and onions with the brightness of fresh basil, all on a crispy crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough and place on a baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook bell peppers and onions over medium heat until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add cooked vegetables, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the pizza crust.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with chopped basil.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Soup with Herbs
This hearty soup combines the sweetness of roasted bell peppers and caramelized onions with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The roasted vegetables add depth and smokiness to this comforting soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is charred.
3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
4. Add roasted bell peppers, garlic, thyme, broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Stuffed Chicken Breast
Add a pop of color and flavor to your meals with this simple yet impressive recipe. Succulent chicken breast is filled with a sweet and savory mixture of sautéed bell peppers and onions, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the bell peppers and onions with olive oil until tender.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the pepper-onion mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Tacos with Lime Crema
Add a burst of flavor to your taco game with this vibrant and delicious recipe! Roasted bell peppers and caramelized onions come together in perfect harmony, topped with a zesty lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below for recipe)
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place bell peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with cumin and smoked paprika (if using). Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing roasted bell peppers and caramelized onions, then topping with lime crema.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce
A flavorful and colorful pasta dish that combines sautéed bell peppers, onions, and garlic with a rich butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp. of butter over medium-high heat. Add onions and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tbsp. of butter over low heat.
5. Combine cooked pasta, pepper mixture, and garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Hash with Fried Eggs
A flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines sweet bell peppers, savory onions, and crispy fried eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bell pepper and onion slices; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble them with the bell pepper mixture.
4. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set to your liking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Curry with Coconut Milk
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 8 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
8. Serve hot over rice, naan, or with roti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Quiche with Cheddar Cheese
This quiche is a flavorful and savory breakfast or brunch option, perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of sweet bell peppers, caramelized onions, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 large bell peppers, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bell peppers and onions over medium heat until tender, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange the cooked vegetables in the pie crust.
5. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the vegetables.
6. Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Salad with Feta and Olives
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of bell peppers, the pungency of onions, and the tanginess of feta and olives. It’s a perfect side dish for your next Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bell peppers and onions.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Top with feta cheese and olives.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and toss gently.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Sausage Skillet
A flavorful and hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines juicy sausage, caramelized onions, and sweet bell peppers in a savory skillet dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large yellow onions, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup chicken broth or white wine for added moisture
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and caramelized (15-20 minutes).
5. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with these savory stuffed mushrooms, packed with caramelized onions, bell peppers, and a hint of earthy portobellos.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and diced bell peppers over medium heat until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a paper towel. Stuff each cap with the pepper-onion mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through. If using cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bell Pepper and Onion Ratatouille
This classic French vegetable stew is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, Bell Pepper and Onion Ratatouille is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the mixed tomatoes and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the ratatouille over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these 18 delicious recipes that feature bell peppers and onions as the star ingredients. From hearty main dishes like stuffed chicken breast and sausage skillet, to flavorful stir-fries and soups, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory quesadilla or a sweet and smoky ratatouille, these recipes are sure to please. With their vibrant colors and bold flavors, bell peppers and onions are the perfect duo to add some excitement to your cooking routine.
