Smoked Stuffed Pepper Stew

Smoked Stuffed Pepper Stew takes all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers and infuses them with deep, smoky goodness. This hearty stew is loaded with ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, rice, and seasonings, then slow-smoked on a Traeger for an extra layer of rich flavor. It’s the perfect cozy meal for cool nights, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep smoky flavor – The Traeger adds an irresistible smoky depth to the stew.
• Hearty and comforting – Packed with protein, veggies, and rice for a filling meal.
• Easy one-pot meal – Everything comes together in one pot for easy cleanup.
• Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day and freezes well.
• Customizable – Use different meats, add spice, or swap in cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• Bell peppers (green, red, and yellow), diced
• Onion, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Cooked rice (white or brown)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Smoked paprika
• Dried oregano
• Ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Traeger

1. Set the smoker temperature – Preheat your Traeger to 250°F and allow it to heat for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

2. Sauté the meat and onions – In a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, onions, and garlic, and cook until the meat is browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Stew

3. Add the bell peppers – Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Mix in the tomatoes and seasonings – Add fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Smoke the Stew

5. Place on the Traeger – Transfer the skillet or Dutch oven to the smoker. Smoke uncovered for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well developed.
6. Add the cooked rice – Stir in the cooked rice during the last 15 minutes of smoking.

Step 5: Serve

7. Garnish and enjoy – Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Stuffed Pepper Stew – Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for a kick.
• Low-Carb/Keto Version – Replace rice with cauliflower rice or omit it altogether.
• Turkey or Chicken Option – Swap ground beef for ground turkey or shredded smoked chicken.
• Cheesy Finish – Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese before serving.
• Vegetarian Version – Use plant-based meat or extra beans instead of beef.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring in between.
• Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this without a smoker?

Yes! You can cook it on the stovetop over low heat for 1 hour or bake it in a 325°F oven for 90 minutes.

What’s the best wood pellet for smoking this stew?

Hickory, mesquite, or cherry wood pellets add great smoky depth.

Can I use uncooked rice?

Yes, but add an extra cup of beef broth and let it cook in the stew until tender.

What other meats can I use?

Ground pork, ground turkey, or even shredded smoked brisket work well.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.

How can I thicken the stew?

Let it simmer longer, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

Can I add beans?

Yes! Black beans or kidney beans are great additions for extra protein and texture.

What toppings go well with this stew?

Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh parsley, or sliced green onions make great toppings.

Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat and onions first, then cook everything on low for 6–8 hours.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.

Conclusion

Smoked Stuffed Pepper Stew is a delicious, smoky twist on a comforting classic. Packed with tender beef, sweet bell peppers, and bold flavors, this hearty stew is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights by the fire. Fire up your Traeger and give this flavorful dish a try!

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