Simple Stuffed Peppers in the Slow Cooker

One way to save money on meals for your family is to buy meat on sale.  Chicken and ground beef are a meat staple for young families.  I was able to buy 20 lbs. of ground beef for only $1.67 a pound.  If you buy full price, $3 - $4 a pound.  That is a significant savings.

I then fry it and separate it into freezer ziploc baggies.  During these really busy days, this is a lifesaver.  I simply defrost the meat in the microwave in the Ziploc bag and it is ready to be put in my recipe.  This also saves on clean-up because I have no frying pans to wash.

A simple recipe I like to make is Stuffed Green Peppers.  You can cut your prep time in HALF by simply having the meat fried ahead of time and using the slow cooker.

Here is a sooo simple basic recipe I use.  I do throw in spices to this mixture.  Garlic, onion, crushed red pepper, Cajun seasoning, etc. :)

1 jar of spaghetti sauce

3 cups of cooked rice 

(I use instant and it will be done in 5 minutes)

1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies-drained

1 lb. of ground beef, fried and drained

shredded cheddar or mozz cheese

8 green peppers

*You can add most anything to stuffed peppers!  Change it up and add away.

 - Corn, beans, sausage, chicken, green onions, various cheeses, vegetables such as spinach and mushrooms.  Southwestern, Mediterranean, Vegan.  This list is endless!*

Mix the first four ingredients (and spices/seasonings). Place the peppers in the crockpot.  Fill with mixture.  Add an inch of water to the bottom of the crockpot.  Cook on high until peppers are tender.  Add cheese and cook 15 minutes more.

Alternative Method:

You can cook the green peppers in boiling water for 4-5 minutes and drain.  Place in baking dish.  Fill with mixture, top with cheese, cover with foil and bake in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through.