Dooky Chase’s Stuffed Peppers are a true Southern classic that brings bold flavors and rich history to the table. This iconic dish, rooted in New Orleans cuisine, combines savory ground beef, rice, and a blend of spices all nestled inside tender bell peppers. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
We love how this recipe balances hearty ingredients with vibrant seasonings, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Dooky Chase’s culinary legacy or trying it for the first time, these stuffed peppers offer a delicious taste of Southern tradition you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive into making this flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the iconic Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers, we carefully select ingredients that deliver bold Southern flavors with every bite. Below you will find everything needed to make this classic dish come alive.
For the Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 cup cooked white rice (fluffy, cooled)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Seasoning Mix
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Paprika | 1 tablespoon | Adds mild smoky flavor |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | For authentic Southern heat |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | Traditional herbal depth |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Enhances savory notes |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Complements fresh onion |
| Brown sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances spices with slight sweetness |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | To taste |
“This seasoning mix is the heartbeat of our stuffed peppers — combining warmth, spice, and complexity.”
Optional Garnishes and Sides
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish
- Hot sauce, to serve alongside for an extra kick
- Cornbread or garlic bread, perfect for soaking up juices
- Side salad with a light vinaigrette, for a refreshing contrast
These components together create the full Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers experience — hearty, flavorful, and authentically Southern.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers Recipe flawlessly, gathering the right equipment is essential. Each tool ensures precision and ease throughout the cooking process.
- Large Mixing Bowl
For combining ground beef, rice, and seasonings evenly.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
To carefully slice the tops off the bell peppers and dice the onion and garlic.
- Cutting Board
A sturdy surface to prep all fresh ingredients safely.
- Sauté Pan or Skillet (12-inch)
For cooking the ground beef, onions, garlic, and tomatoes until richly blended.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Accuracy in seasoning with paprika, cayenne, thyme, and other spices enhances flavor balance.
- Baking Dish (9×13 inch)
To arrange the stuffed peppers snugly for even cooking in the oven.
- Aluminum Foil
Optional, to tent over the peppers to retain moisture during baking.
- Oven Mitts
For safe handling of the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
To stir and combine ingredients without scratching cookware.
“Using precise equipment helps us master the rich flavors and textures that define the Classic Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers.”
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Mix meat, rice, and spices |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Prep bell peppers, onion, and garlic |
| Cutting Board | Safe chopping surface |
| Sauté Pan / Skillet | Cook filling ingredients |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Accurate spice and ingredient measurements |
| Baking Dish (9×13) | Bake stuffed peppers evenly |
| Aluminum Foil | Cover peppers to keep moisture |
| Oven Mitts | Safely remove hot dishes |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stir ingredients without damage |
Having these tools ready lets us focus on crafting the perfect blend of flavors in our Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers, making cooking a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, careful preparation is key for the Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers Recipe. This section guides us through prepping each component to ensure a rich and flavorful final dish.
Preparing the Peppers
- Select large bell peppers with firm skin and vibrant color to hold the filling well.
- Rinse each pepper under cold water to remove any residue.
- Slice off the tops, reserving them for garnish or other uses.
- Carefully remove seeds and membranes using a small spoon or your fingers, creating a hollow cavity.
- Optionally, blanch the peppers in boiling water for 3 minutes to soften slightly, then drain and set aside.
Preparing the Filling Ingredients
- Dice 1 medium onion finely for even cooking and flavor release.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic fresh to maximize aroma.
- Open and drain 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes to remove excess liquid.
- Measure 1 cup of cooked rice to ensure proper texture in the filling.
- Weigh out 1 pound of ground beef, trimming any excess fat if desired for a leaner dish.
- Keep all ingredients at hand for swift assembly.
Making the Seasoning Blend
Our signature seasoning blend provides the heartbeat of the stuffing. Accurately measuring each spice emphasizes depth and balance.
| Spice | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds smoky sweetness |
| Cayenne Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Introduces gentle heat |
| Thyme (dried) | 1/2 teaspoon | Offers earthy herbal notes |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances savory richness |
| Onion Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Boosts onion flavor |
| Brown Sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances acidity with sweetness |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Amplifies all flavors |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds subtle flick of spice |
- Combine all spices in a small bowl and stir until evenly mixed.
- Store the blend near the prep station for timely use.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers perfectly. We will guide you through cooking the filling, stuffing the peppers, and baking them to achieve a rich and savory flavor.
Cooking the Filling
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 7–8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet to keep the filling moist but not greasy.
- Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and the cooked rice.
- Sprinkle the signature seasoning blend evenly over the mixture.
- Mix well, ensuring the spices coat the filling thoroughly.
- Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing |
| Diced onions | 1 cup | Finely chopped |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves | Freshly minced |
| Ground beef | 1 pound | 80% lean preferred |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup | Well-drained |
| Cooked rice | 1 cup | Long grain or white rice |
| Signature seasoning | 2 tablespoons | Pre-measured blend |
Stuffing the Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the prepared bell peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Spoon the warm beef and rice filling into each hollowed bell pepper generously.
- Press the filling lightly to ensure each pepper is filled but not overstuffed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper for a golden crust.
- Optional: Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to keep moisture locked during baking.
Baking the Peppers
- Bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking to brown the cheese topping.
- Check the peppers; the flesh should be tender but intact.
- Use oven mitts to carefully remove the baking dish from the oven.
- Let the peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
“Our Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers come alive with every savory bite, showcasing a perfect balance of spice and comfort.“
Enjoy these peppers with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra zest.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers experience, consider these Serving Suggestions that complement the rich, savory flavors of the dish perfectly.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top of the stuffed peppers just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a hint of bright, herbal freshness that balances the hearty filling.
- Add a Drizzle of Hot Sauce
For those who enjoy a little extra heat, a few dashes of your favorite Louisiana-style hot sauce enhance the bold spice blend in the peppers. This layer of heat is a nod to the authentic New Orleans roots of the recipe.
- Serve with Traditional Southern Sides
Complement these stuffed peppers with classic sides for a well-rounded Southern meal. Our favorites include:
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Cornbread | Sweet, crumbly, and slightly buttery |
| Collard Greens | Slow-cooked with smoky seasoning |
| Potato Salad | Creamy and tangy with a hint of mustard |
- Pair with a Fresh Green Salad
A crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich stuffed peppers. Use ingredients like baby spinach, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for vibrant texture and flavor.
- Include a Side of Black-Eyed Peas or Red Beans
Serving a small portion of black-eyed peas or red beans and rice alongside adds traditional soul food depth and completes the meal authentically.
“When plating, we like to place the stuffed peppers on a warm plate and surround them with a generous helping of cornbread and collard greens, finishing with a dusting of parsley and a tiny dish of hot sauce on the side for personal heat adjustment.”
By combining these serving suggestions with our Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers, we bring out every layer of flavor while honoring the dish’s storied New Orleans heritage.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers ahead of time allows us to enjoy rich flavors that meld beautifully and saves us valuable time on busy days. Here are essential steps to optimize your make-ahead process:
1. Prepare the Filling in Advance
- Cook the ground beef, sauté the onions and garlic, and mix with cooked rice and seasonings as described in the recipe.
- Allow the filling to cool completely before refrigerating.
- Store the filling in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.
2. Pre-Stuff the Peppers
- Hollow out and blanch the bell peppers to soften them slightly.
- Stuff the peppers fully with the prepared filling.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate stuffed peppers for up to 24 hours.
3. Baking from Refrigerated or Frozen
| Stage | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bake from refrigerated | 350°F (175°C) | 30-40 minutes | Remove cover last 10 minutes to brown cheese |
| Bake from frozen | 350°F (175°C) | 60-70 minutes | Cover tightly, remove foil last 10 minutes |
- For best flavor, allow refrigerated stuffed peppers to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking.
- When baking from frozen, cover tightly to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
4. Freezing for Longer Storage
- Freeze pre-stuffed peppers on a baking sheet until firm.
- Transfer frozen peppers to freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Bake directly from frozen following the Bake from frozen instructions above.
“Make-ahead preparation not only saves time but deepens the classic flavors that make Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers a cherished Southern favorite.“
By incorporating these tips, we ensure a convenient yet authentic experience without compromising the rich taste and texture that define this iconic dish.
Conclusion
Dooky Chase Stuffed Peppers bring a taste of New Orleans right to our kitchens. This recipe blends tradition with bold flavors, making every bite a comforting celebration of Southern cuisine. Whether we’re cooking for family or special guests, these stuffed peppers offer a satisfying and memorable meal.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, we can enjoy a dish that’s both authentic and easy to prepare. It’s a wonderful way to honor a beloved culinary legacy while adding a delicious new favorite to our recipe collection. Let’s keep this Southern classic alive and savor every flavorful moment together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dooky Chase’s Stuffed Peppers?
Dooky Chase’s Stuffed Peppers are a classic Southern dish featuring bell peppers stuffed with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, and spices. Originating from New Orleans, they offer a comforting balance of hearty ingredients and vibrant seasonings, perfect for family meals or special occasions.
What ingredients are needed to make Dooky Chase’s Stuffed Peppers?
You’ll need large bell peppers, ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and a seasoning blend including paprika, cayenne, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Optional garnishes include parsley and hot sauce.
What kitchen tools are essential for preparing this dish?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, sauté pan or skillet, measuring spoons and cups, baking dish, aluminum foil, oven mitts, and a wooden spoon or spatula.
How do I prepare the bell peppers for stuffing?
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. This creates a hollow space ready to be filled with the seasoned beef and rice mixture.
Can I make Dooky Chase’s Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers in advance. Refrigerate or freeze them, then bake when ready. This allows flavors to meld and saves cooking time on busy days.
What are some good side dishes to serve with the stuffed peppers?
Traditional Southern sides like cornbread, collard greens, potato salad, black-eyed peas, red beans, and a fresh green salad pair well. A drizzle of Louisiana-style hot sauce also enhances the dish.
How long should I bake the stuffed peppers?
Bake the stuffed peppers covered with aluminum foil for about 30-40 minutes, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and the flavors to meld nicely.
Is this dish spicy?
The dish contains cayenne pepper and paprika, providing a mild to moderate heat that can be adjusted. Adding Louisiana-style hot sauce on the side lets diners control the spice level.