Kirkland Signature Stuffed Peppers Air Fryer and Oven Recipe

Looking for a quick, delicious, and convenient meal solution for those hectic weeknights? You’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing Costco stuffed peppers in an air fryer or oven. Dive into our detailed review of Kirkland Signature stuffed bell peppers, a beloved deli item that brings comfort and flavor to any family table. Discover easy-to-follow directions for Costco stuffed peppers, ensuring a perfectly cooked meal every time. Whether you’re a seasoned Costco shopper or new to the wonders of their deli section, these stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic choice for a fuss-free dinner. Forget long cooking times and complicated recipes; with Kirkland stuffed peppers, you’re just moments away from a satisfying, hearty meal. And yes, you absolutely can cook Costco stuffed peppers in an air fryer, making dinner even faster and more energy-efficient!

Costco Stuffed Peppers in Air Fryer

Our focus today is on the delightful Kirkland Signature Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef & Rice. For those unfamiliar, “Kirkland Signature” is Costco’s renowned private label brand, synonymous with quality and value. These convenience meals are incredibly straightforward to prepare, offering multiple cooking avenues to suit your kitchen setup and personal preference. The savory blend of seasoned ground beef and rice, all nestled within tender bell pepper halves, makes for an appealing and substantial dish that caters to a wide range of tastes. It’s the perfect solution when you crave a homemade meal without the extensive preparation.

In our opinion, the most efficient and advantageous method for preparing this Costco stuffed bell peppers recipe is undeniably the air fryer. The benefits are manifold: not only does air frying significantly conserve energy compared to a conventional oven, but it also prevents your kitchen from heating up, which is especially welcome during warmer months. Furthermore, air frying often provides a quicker cooking time, yielding beautifully tender peppers and a perfectly heated, savory filling. The circulating hot air ensures a consistently cooked product with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for busy households.

However, we understand that not everyone owns an air fryer. Fear not, as we will also provide clear, concise oven baking instructions, ensuring that you can enjoy these delectable Costco stuffed bell peppers with ground beef regardless of your appliance. While cooking instructions are typically found on the product packaging, the print can often be minuscule and challenging to decipher – a common frustration we aim to alleviate by providing all the details here in an easy-to-read format. This way, you won’t have to squint or search for a magnifying glass to get dinner on the table.

Beyond cooking methods, this guide will address a variety of common queries surrounding the Kirkland Signature stuffed peppers. We’ll delve into important aspects such as their suitability for various dietary preferences (e.g., are they low carb or keto-friendly?), current pricing details, comprehensive nutrition information, and valuable insights to help you make informed choices about this popular Costco offering. We’ll also cover storage tips, whether they can be frozen, and what to serve alongside them to create a truly memorable meal. By the end of this article, you’ll be a master of preparing Costco’s famous stuffed peppers!

Costco Stuffed Peppers: Nutrition Facts and Dietary Information

Understanding the nutritional profile of convenience foods like Costco stuffed peppers is essential for making informed dietary choices. It’s a common observation that the official nutritional information isn’t always prominently displayed or easily accessible on the packaging itself. However, based on various reputable online sources and consumer data, one Costco stuffed pepper half typically provides around 350 calories. Each package contains six pepper halves, meaning six individual servings. This caloric content makes them a substantial component of a meal, offering a hearty and filling option.

Stuffed Peppers Costco

A Detailed Look at Kirkland Stuffed Peppers Nutrition

For those monitoring their macronutrient intake or adhering to specific dietary plans, here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition information for a single Costco stuffed pepper serving. This data is derived from commonly cited sources and can help you fit these peppers into your daily diet:

  • Calories: 350 kcal – Providing a solid energy base for your meal.
  • Total Fat: 16g – A moderate amount, contributing to satiety.
  • Saturated Fat: 7g – An important factor for those monitoring heart health.
  • Cholesterol: 70mg – Also a consideration for cardiovascular health.
  • Sodium: 810mg – A relatively high amount, which is typical for many prepared foods.
  • Total Carbohydrate: 23g – Primarily from the rice and vegetables.
  • Fiber: 2g – A modest amount that contributes to digestive health.
  • Net Carbs: 21g – Total carbs minus fiber, relevant for low-carb diets.
  • Sugar: 6g – Includes both natural and added sugars.
  • Protein: 26g – A significant amount, making these peppers very satiating.

Given this nutritional breakdown, a frequently asked question is: “Are Costco stuffed peppers keto-friendly?” The answer is generally no. These stuffed bell peppers contain parboiled rice, which is a significant source of carbohydrates, pushing them out of the typical strict ketogenic diet parameters, which usually aim for less than 20g net carbs per day. However, with approximately 21 grams of net carbohydrates per serving, they might be adaptable for individuals following a more relaxed or moderate low-carb eating plan where slightly higher carb counts are acceptable. Always consider your personal macros and consult with a dietitian if you have specific dietary needs or health concerns regarding carbohydrate intake.

What’s Inside: Costco Stuffed Peppers Ingredients

Curious about what is in Costco stuffed peppers? The Kirkland Signature Stuffed Bell Peppers feature a robust and flavorful ingredient list designed for convenience and taste. Understanding these components can help you appreciate the flavor profile and make comparisons to homemade versions. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you’ll find:

  • Cooked Ground Beef: The primary protein source, forming the hearty and satisfying core of the filling. Its savory notes are central to the overall taste.
  • Tomato Paste: Adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor, providing a deep umami base and a touch of acidity that brightens the dish.
  • Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the filling, ensuring it remains moist and tender during cooking.
  • Parboiled Rice: Partially cooked rice, which expands and softens during the final cooking process, giving the stuffing its characteristic texture and volume.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: One of three cheeses, contributing a mild, creamy texture and a gentle, melty quality when heated.
  • Provolone Cheese: Offers a slightly sharper, more savory note compared to mozzarella, adding depth to the cheese blend.
  • Vinegar: Balances flavors and adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese.
  • Onion: A classic aromatic, finely chopped to enhance the overall savory profile with its sweet and pungent notes.
  • Sugar: Included for sweetness and to balance the natural acidity of the tomato, contributing to a well-rounded flavor.
  • Salt: Essential for seasoning, bringing out and enhancing all the other flavors in the stuffing.
  • Red and Green Bell Peppers: The vibrant vessels for the delicious stuffing, providing a natural sweetness, crisp texture, and beautiful color.
  • Brown Sugar: Another source of sweetness, adding a deeper, molasses-like flavor that complements the beef and tomato.
  • Spices: A proprietary blend of spices contributes to the overall savory and aromatic profile of the filling, giving it its distinctive taste.
  • Garlic: A key flavor enhancer, minced to infuse the filling with its pungent and aromatic qualities.
  • Molasses: Provides a rich, complex sweetness and a hint of depth, often used in BBQ-style or savory-sweet flavor profiles.
  • Parmesan Cheese: The third cheese, adding a salty, nutty, and umami kick that elevates the overall cheesy flavor.
  • Dried Parsley: For a fresh, herbaceous finish and a touch of color, enhancing the visual appeal.

It’s quite interesting to note the inclusion of three distinct types of cheese in the recipe. While a generous amount of cheese is listed, some might find that the overall “cheesiness” isn’t as pronounced as in a homemade version where cheese might be added more liberally as a topping. This could be due to the blend or the way the cheeses integrate into the dense filling.

Another point of interest is the presence of several forms of added sugar, including white sugar, brown sugar, and molasses. While the amount of added sugar per individual pepper half isn’t excessively high, it’s worth considering for those monitoring their sugar intake. Many traditional stuffed pepper recipes achieve their deliciousness without any added sugar, relying instead on the natural sweetness of the peppers and tomatoes. For a customizable and simpler alternative, we’ve included a fantastic Costco stuffed peppers recipe (copycat version) later in this article, which focuses on straightforward, wholesome ingredients and allows you to control the sugar content.

Costco Stuffed Peppers Ingredients

To prepare these convenient Kirkland stuffed peppers at home, you’ll primarily need the package of peppers itself and a reliable cooking spray to prevent sticking and aid in browning. Minimal additional ingredients are required, highlighting their grab-and-go appeal.

Essential Equipment for Cooking Costco Stuffed Peppers

Having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving perfectly cooked Costco stuffed peppers. Whether you opt for oven baking or air frying, here’s a breakdown of the essential equipment you’ll need, along with why each item is important:

  • Foil: Crucial for covering the peppers during cooking. This ensures they heat through evenly, traps moisture to keep the peppers tender, and prevents the cheese topping from burning prematurely before the filling is hot.
  • Oven or Air Fryer: Your primary cooking appliance. Both methods are effective, but each offers unique advantages in terms of speed, energy consumption, and texture.
  • Meat Thermometer: An indispensable tool for food safety. Since the peppers contain cooked beef and parboiled rice, it’s vital to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any potential pathogens and ensure the rice is fully cooked. An instant-read thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy.

If you’re using an air fryer, you’ll also need:

  • Metal Pan that Fits Your Air Fryer: A small aluminum baking pan or an oven-safe glass/ceramic dish is necessary to hold the peppers and contain any juices that might release during cooking. This also helps prevent the peppers from sticking directly to the air fryer basket. The size will depend on your specific air fryer model, so measure your basket or oven cavity beforehand.

For this Costco stuffed peppers recipe, an air fryer oven is often preferred, as its larger capacity typically allows you to cook more peppers at once compared to basket-style air fryers. This is a great advantage if you’re feeding a family or cooking multiple servings. While specific brands like the 10-Quart Kalorik Digital Air Fryer Oven are mentioned, most popular air fryer brands, including Ninja Foodi, Philips, Instant Pot Vortex, Cosori, Nuwave, or Breville, will work wonderfully for cooking stuffed bell peppers effectively.

It’s important to remember that air fryer cooking times can vary based on the model, wattage, and even the size and shape of your specific appliance. Air fryers are powerful, and some cook hotter than others. Always use the suggested times as a guide and adjust as necessary, keeping a close eye on your food. If you have a smaller basket-style air fryer, finding a suitable metal pan that fits snugly might require a bit of searching, but it’s a worthwhile investment for hassle-free cooking and preventing messes.

Oven Cooking Instructions: How to Heat Up Costco Stuffed Peppers

If you prefer the traditional baking method or don’t have an air fryer, preparing your Costco stuffed peppers in the oven is straightforward and yields delicious results. This method ensures thorough heating and a tender texture. Follow these simple Costco stuffed peppers cooking instructions for a perfectly baked meal:

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Allowing the oven to reach the correct temperature beforehand is crucial for even cooking and to kickstart the heating process effectively from the moment you place the peppers inside.
  2. Prepare Peppers: Carefully remove the plastic lid from the tray of Kirkland Signature stuffed peppers. You can use the original metal tray they come in, as it’s typically oven-safe. If you prefer, you can also transfer the peppers to an oven-safe baking dish that is appropriately sized.
  3. Cover with Foil: Loosely cover the tray or dish with aluminum foil. This serves a dual purpose: it helps to trap steam, which keeps the bell peppers tender and moist, and it prevents the cheese topping from browning too quickly or burning. For best results and to prevent the cheese from sticking to the foil, lightly mist the underside of the foil with cooking oil spray before placing it over the peppers. This small step makes a big difference in presentation and ease of serving.
  4. Bake: Place the covered tray on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes. The exact cooking time can vary slightly depending on your oven’s calibration, the initial temperature of the peppers (e.g., straight from the fridge), and how dense the stuffing is.
  5. Check Doneness: The most crucial step for food safety and deliciousness is to verify the internal temperature. Using an instant-read meat thermometer, carefully insert the probe into the thickest part of the stuffing, ensuring it doesn’t touch the pepper wall or the tray. The peppers are safely cooked and ready to eat when they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). If they haven’t reached this temperature, return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes and re-check until the safe temperature is achieved.

Once cooked through, carefully remove the peppers from the oven. For optimal flavor and to prevent burns, let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the internal temperature to stabilize and the flavors to fully meld. Serve hot and enjoy your perfectly baked Costco stuffed bell peppers!

Costco Stuffed Peppers Oven

Air Fryer Cooking Instructions: Quick & Easy Costco Stuffed Peppers

For those seeking speed and efficiency without compromising on taste, the air fryer is an exceptional tool for cooking Costco stuffed peppers. This method typically takes around 45 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to achieve perfectly heated peppers with a delicious, tender filling, often with a slightly crisper exterior compared to oven baking. Here’s how to harness the power of your air fryer for a hassle-free meal:

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Proper preheating is absolutely key to ensuring even cooking, achieving that ideal tender-crisp texture, and minimizing overall cooking time. Do not skip this step!
  2. Arrange Peppers: Place the Kirkland stuffed peppers in a single layer within a small metal baking tray or oven-safe dish that fits comfortably inside your air fryer. It’s vital to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket or oven cavity, as proper air circulation is necessary for even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might be able to fit 2-3 peppers in an 8-inch by 8-inch by 1.5-inch (20cm x 20cm x 3.8cm) aluminum pan. If you have more peppers, you may need to cook them in batches.
  3. Cover and Spray: Cover the metal pan securely with aluminum foil. This prevents the top of the peppers, particularly the cheese, from drying out or burning before the inside is fully heated and cooked through. Remember the crucial tip: lightly mist the underside of the foil with cooking spray. This simple trick will prevent any melted cheese from sticking to the foil, ensuring a clean and appealing presentation.
  4. Air Fry: Carefully place the covered pan into the middle of your air fryer. Air fry the peppers for a total of 45 minutes. It’s a good practice to check on them every 15 minutes or so, just in case your particular air fryer model cooks faster or slower than anticipated. This cooking duration is essential to ensure both the beef filling and the parboiled rice are thoroughly heated and cooked to a safe internal temperature, as well as to soften the bell pepper shells.
  5. Verify Temperature: After the 45 minutes, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the peppers. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the filling, making sure not to touch the pepper itself or the bottom of the pan. The peppers should reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If they haven’t quite reached this temperature, you can return them to the air fryer for additional cooking time in 5-minute increments until the desired temperature is achieved.

Once ready, carefully remove the tray from the air fryer. Allow the Costco stuffed peppers to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the internal temperature to equalize and prevent burning your mouth. These are a ready-to-eat delight, perfect for a satisfying and remarkably easy meal.

Stuffed Pepper from Costco

Storage & Shelf Life: How Long Do Costco Stuffed Peppers Last?

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Costco stuffed peppers safely and maintaining their quality and flavor. Whether you have uncooked peppers from the deli section or leftovers from a cooked meal, here’s what you need to know to maximize their freshness:

Both cooked and uncooked Kirkland Signature stuffed peppers should always be stored in the refrigerator. They typically last for 3-4 days when kept in a covered, food-safe container. The original metal tray they come in, when properly covered with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, works well for this purpose. Always ensure the container is airtight to prevent exposure to air, which can lead to spoilage and absorb unwanted odors from other foods in your fridge. Timely refrigeration is crucial to inhibit bacterial growth and ensure food safety.

Regarding freezing, we generally do not recommend freezing Costco stuffed peppers. While technically possible, freezing can significantly alter the texture of both the bell peppers and the rice filling, often leading to a watery and mushy consistency upon defrosting and reheating. The peppers may lose their firm, vibrant structure and become soft, while the rice can become overly soft and lose its distinct grains. If you do choose to freeze them (perhaps out of necessity to prevent waste), be prepared for a slightly different eating experience. For more detailed information on freezing and potential reheating strategies for frozen stuffed peppers, refer to our FAQ section below or our dedicated recipes for tips on handling frozen foods.

Complementary Sides: What to Serve with Stuffed Peppers

While Costco stuffed peppers are incredibly hearty and balanced, often serving as a complete meal on their own, you might want to add a side dish to complement their rich flavors or to stretch the meal further, especially when feeding a larger family. The combination of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in the stuffing already provides a good macro balance. However, if you’re looking for delightful accompaniments, consider these popular and easy-to-prepare options:

  • Air Fryer Garlic Bread: The crispy texture and aromatic flavor of garlic bread make it an ideal partner for savory stuffed peppers. Using an air fryer means minimal effort and a perfectly golden finish without heating up your kitchen.
  • Air Fryer Frozen French Fries: For a touch of comforting crunch and a familiar favorite, a side of crispy French fries prepared in the air fryer adds a fun and satisfying element to the meal that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
  • Fresh Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad, such as a Vegan Spinach Salad, provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the peppers. Opt for a vibrant vinaigrette dressing to add brightness and a healthy crunch without overwhelming the main dish.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans can add extra nutrients, a lovely caramelized flavor, and another texture dimension. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast alongside your peppers (if oven baking) or in a separate air fryer batch.
  • Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic comfort food pairing, creamy mashed potatoes can soak up any delicious juices from the peppers, providing a smooth and satisfying contrast in texture.
  • Crusty Bread: A simple loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the savory tomato-infused juices from the stuffed peppers.

Choose a side that aligns with your family’s preferences and your desired meal complexity. The goal is to enhance, not overshadow, the main star: the delicious Costco stuffed bell peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Costco Stuffed Peppers

How much do Costco stuffed peppers cost?

The price of Costco stuffed peppers can vary, but generally, at the time of this writing, they are priced around $4.99 per pound. This typically translates to a package cost of approximately $15-$20, depending on the number of peppers and the total weight. It’s important to remember that prices are subject to change due to fluctuating market conditions and may differ based on your specific Costco location and regional pricing strategies. Always check the current price at your local warehouse.

Are Costco stuffed peppers precooked?

Yes, and no. It’s a common point of confusion for many shoppers. The ground beef component in Costco stuffed peppers is fully cooked, which is a great starting point for convenience and food safety. However, the rice component is typically parboiled, meaning it has only been partially cooked. This is a crucial detail that explains why these Kirkland Signature stuffed peppers require a relatively long cooking time in the oven or air fryer. The extended cooking ensures that the parboiled rice finishes cooking thoroughly, softens to the right texture, and that the entire dish reaches a safe internal temperature throughout.

Are Costco stuffed peppers gluten-free?

From an ingredient list perspective, Costco stuffed peppers are generally considered to be gluten-free, as no direct gluten-containing ingredients (like wheat, barley, or rye) are typically listed. However, a significant caveat applies: they are manufactured in a facility that also processes wheat. This means there is an inherent risk of cross-contact with gluten-containing foods. Therefore, for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities, these peppers may not be a safe option due to potential cross-contamination. Always exercise caution and consult with a medical professional if you have strict dietary requirements.

How to cook Costco stuffed peppers in the microwave?

Microwaving Costco stuffed peppers is generally not recommended as the primary cooking method, primarily because the rice filling is only parboiled, not fully cooked. Microwaves heat food unevenly, which could lead to patches of undercooked rice or cold spots within the dense filling, posing a food safety risk. If you absolutely must use a microwave for reheating cooked peppers or to finish cooking in a pinch, transfer the pepper halves to a microwave-safe plate (never use metal in a microwave!). Microwave on high power, checking the internal temperature every 5 minutes or so. The peppers are done when the center of the stuffing reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For best results, consider the oven or air fryer.

Are Costco stuffed peppers healthy?

When assessing the health aspect of Costco stuffed peppers, it’s a mixed bag, offering both advantages and drawbacks. On the positive side, they provide a respectable amount of high-quality protein from the ground beef and offer a good serving of phytochemical-rich bell peppers, contributing essential vitamins and antioxidants. However, like many prepared convenience foods, they tend to be significantly higher in sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars compared to a version made from scratch at home. For this reason, while convenient, they may not be the most nutritious option for those closely managing these dietary components. Homemade versions allow for precise control over ingredients, enabling you to reduce sodium, opt for leaner meats, and eliminate unnecessary added sugars, thereby creating a healthier, more customized meal.

Can you freeze stuffed peppers from Costco?

While you can technically freeze Costco stuffed peppers, it’s not ideal for maintaining their optimal texture and quality. Freezing can cause the bell peppers to become watery and mushy upon thawing due to ice crystal formation, and the rice filling may also suffer in texture, becoming somewhat grainy or soft. If you do choose to freeze them (perhaps out of necessity to prevent waste), be prepared for a slightly different eating experience. To freeze, wrap individual peppers tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag. When cooking Costco stuffed peppers from frozen, you would typically need to extend the cooking time significantly. For those interested in reheating instructions for frozen stuffed bell peppers, our separate stuffed bell peppers air fryer recipe provides guidance on cooking from a frozen state, suggesting longer cooking times at lower temperatures.

Bonus Recipe: Craft Your Own Copycat Costco Stuffed Peppers

While the convenience of Costco stuffed peppers is undeniable, sometimes you might crave a homemade version where you can control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Crafting your own allows for adjustments to sodium, fat, and sugar content, making it a healthier alternative. Here’s a simplified yet delicious copycat Costco stuffed peppers recipe that allows you to enjoy this comfort food from scratch, with options for both air fryer and oven baking.

Homemade Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef & Rice

Ingredients:

  • 3 bell peppers (any color; red, yellow, or orange for sweeter flavor, green for classic tang)
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste (adjust freely for dietary needs)
  • 8 ounces (227 grams) lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown, cooled)
  • 3/4 cup spaghetti sauce (choose a low-sodium, low-sugar brand if desired)
  • 2 ounces (57 grams) mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated (divided)
How to make Costco Stuffed Peppers

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Peppers: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil on the stove. While the water heats, wash your bell peppers thoroughly. Carefully seed and stem them, then cut each pepper in half lengthwise, creating six convenient “boats.” Once the water reaches a rolling boil, submerge the pepper halves in the water for about 3 minutes to slightly soften them. This par-boiling step is crucial as it helps the peppers cook more evenly and become tender enough to eat, without being mushy. Quickly remove them with tongs and set aside to drain.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly browned, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes, releasing their sweet aroma. Remove this flavorful mixture from the skillet and set it aside in a large mixing bowl. (Air Fryer Alternative for Aromatics: If you prefer, you can air fry the chopped onions and garlic at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes, tossing halfway, until they are softened and lightly caramelized.)
  3. Cook Ground Beef: In the same skillet (or a clean one if you air-fried the aromatics), cook the lean ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks until it is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the stuffing lighter. Add the cooked beef to the mixing bowl with the sautéed onion mixture. (Air Fryer Alternative for Beef: Crumble the ground beef onto a heated air fryer tray. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 4 minutes, then break up any larger pieces into smaller crumbles and air fry for another minute until fully browned and cooked through.)
  4. Combine Filling: To the bowl containing the beef and onion mixture, add the cooled cooked rice, your chosen spaghetti sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  5. Stuff Peppers: Evenly distribute the prepared filling among the six blanched bell pepper halves, mounding the mixture slightly to create a generous portion.
  6. Air Fry Instructions:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (177°C) for at least 5 minutes.
    • Place the stuffed pepper halves in a single layer on a rack or in an air fryer-safe baking dish in the middle of your air fryer oven (or basket). Ensure there’s enough space around each pepper for proper hot air circulation.
    • Air fry for 10 minutes to heat the filling through.
    • Carefully remove the peppers, sprinkle the remaining half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over each, then return to the air fryer.
    • Continue to air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the peppers are heated thoroughly to 165°F (74°C).
  7. Oven Bake Instructions:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
    • Place the stuffed pepper halves in a baking dish that’s just large enough to hold them snugly.
    • Bake for 25 minutes to ensure the filling is heated and the peppers soften further.
    • Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over each pepper, and return to the oven.
    • Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the peppers are heated thoroughly to 165°F (74°C).
Costco Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Expert Insights from Dietitian Summer Yule

As a dietitian, Summer Yule offers valuable perspectives on integrating Costco stuffed peppers into a balanced diet, particularly for those with specific health or weight management goals. Her insights help you make smarter choices and customize your meals for optimal nutrition. Here are her expert tips:

  • Weight Loss Support: These stuffed bell peppers can be a supportive food for weight loss. They offer a substantial amount of filling protein from the ground beef and are packed with high-volume, low-calorie vegetables (the peppers themselves). This combination helps promote satiety, meaning you feel fuller for longer, which is crucial for managing calorie intake and preventing overeating. The fiber from the vegetables also aids in digestive health and fullness.
  • Complete Meal Potential: Considering the bell pepper itself as a vegetable (and sometimes categorized as a fruit), and the inclusion of meat, rice, and cheese, these items effectively cover multiple food groups. A single Costco stuffed pepper can certainly serve as a satisfying light meal. However, individuals with higher energy needs, such as growing teenagers, active athletes, or those with physically demanding jobs, might require an additional serving or two to meet their caloric and nutrient requirements.
  • Calorie-Conscious Additions: If you’re aiming to keep your meal low in calories but desire a larger portion size or more variety, pairing the peppers with a simple side salad dressed with a low-oil vinaigrette is an excellent strategy. It adds volume, fresh vegetables, and beneficial micronutrients without significantly increasing the overall calorie count of your meal. Steamed green beans or a light broth-based soup could also work well.
  • Sodium Content: A common characteristic of many ready-made meals, Costco’s stuffed peppers are notably high in sodium. For individuals following a low-sodium diet, or those simply trying to reduce their overall sodium intake to support blood pressure and cardiovascular health, preparing homemade stuffed peppers with no added salt or reduced-sodium ingredients would be a much healthier alternative. You can control the salt shaker at home!
  • Saturated Fat Considerations: Similarly, these peppers might not be the best choice if you are specifically looking to lower your saturated fat intake. The conventional ground beef and multiple cheeses contribute to this. A homemade version provides the flexibility to opt for leaner ground beef (90% lean or higher) or even ground turkey or chicken, creating a more heart-healthy meal. While requiring more effort to prepare from scratch, the nutritional benefits in terms of reduced saturated fat can be significant for long-term health.
  • Convenience vs. Nutrition: It’s important to acknowledge that nutritionally “imperfect” ready-made options, like Kirkland Signature stuffed peppers, can be incredibly valuable in a pinch, especially when time for cooking from scratch is limited. They offer a convenient solution when you’re too busy to cook, providing a warm, hearty meal without much effort. Unlike many fast-food alternatives, they typically offer a decent serving of vegetables and are often a more budget-friendly option than takeout. They represent a convenient solution that still provides some nutritional value, particularly when compared to less balanced fast-food choices, making them a practical option for busy schedules.

Note: The nutrition information provided earlier in this article is an estimate for one serving (one Costco stuffed pepper half) and should be used as a guide.

Explore More Stuffed Pepper Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed learning about Costco stuffed peppers and are eager to explore more easy recipes for stuffed peppers, we have some fantastic suggestions for you to try. These recipes offer diverse flavors and preparation methods, keeping your meal planning exciting and delicious:

  • Stuffed Bell Peppers (Air Fryer or Oven Baked): A versatile recipe offering both air fryer and oven baking methods for classic stuffed peppers, perfect for customization.
  • Bell Pepper Nachos: A fun and creative twist on a classic, turning bell peppers into delicious, customizable “nachos” – a great low-carb appetizer or light meal.
  • Bell Peppers for Weight Loss: Discover how to incorporate bell peppers into your diet for weight management with these lighter, flavorful poppers, often featuring unique and healthy fillings.

Watch How to Make It!

For a visual guide on preparing these delicious stuffed peppers, check out our video tutorial. It demonstrates the ease and simplicity of cooking **Costco stuffed peppers** using an air fryer.

Watch the Stuffed Peppers Cooking Video Here

Costco Stuffed Peppers in Air Fryer Video Thumbnail
Nutrition Info Disclaimer

All recipes and nutrition information on this website may or may not be appropriate for you, depending on your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician if you need help determining the dietary pattern that may be best for you.

The nutrition information provided is an estimate provided as a courtesy. It will differ depending on the specific brands and ingredients that you use. Calorie information on food labels may be inaccurate, so please don’t sweat the numbers too much, and focus on balanced eating patterns.

“To taste” means to your preferences, which may have to be visual to follow food safety rules. Please don’t eat undercooked food.

Nutrition Summary (per serving, estimated)

Here’s a quick recap of the estimated nutritional values for one serving of **Costco Stuffed Peppers**:

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Sodium: 810mg
  • Fiber: 2g

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