Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are a quick and delicious dinner option that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with a savory filling of ground meat, rice, and seasonings. The peppers are hollowed out and stuffed with a flavorful mixture, then baked until tender. You can customize the stuffing to your liking, whether with ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian version using beans or quinoa. Topped with melted cheese, these stuffed peppers are a comforting, one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
I first made Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers when I was looking for a meal that was easy to prep and didn’t require much clean-up. The recipe quickly became a go-to favorite because it’s so versatile! The sweetness of the bell peppers pairs perfectly with the savory filling, and the cheese on top adds a rich, melty touch. Plus, you can prepare the stuffing ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping or busy weeknights. Whether served on their own or with a side salad, these stuffed peppers are a hit with everyone!
Perfect for:
- Family gatherings
- Snack time
- Game day
- Movie nights
- Pretzel lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why these Love Knot Pretzels will quickly become your go-to treat:
- Classic Flavor: A comforting combination of dough, salt, and a slight sweetness that’s perfect every time.
- Fun to Make: Shaping the pretzels into love knots is an enjoyable and creative process.
- Soft and Chewy: The dough creates the ideal balance of softness and chewiness.
- Golden and Glossy Finish: The pretzels’ golden color and shiny crust make them irresistible.
- Great for Sharing: These pretzels are easy to grab and go, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.
- Quick to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can make a batch of fresh pretzels in no time.
- Customizable Toppings: Add different toppings like garlic, cheese, or cinnamon sugar for a twist on the classic.
- Perfectly Salty: The salt on top complements the sweetness of the dough, making for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Baked Fresh: Enjoy the warmth and freshness of homemade pretzels straight from the oven.
- Freezable Dough: You can make the dough ahead of time and freeze it for later enjoyment.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12 pretzels
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 2g
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
The Baking Soda Bath:
- 8 cups water
- ¼ cup baking soda
For the Topping:
- Coarse salt (such as pretzel or sea salt)
Ingredient Highlights
- Active Dry Yeast: Gives the dough its rise and soft texture.
- Coarse Salt: Adds a touch of saltiness to each bite.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the dough.
- Baking Soda: Creates the classic pretzel crust when used in the water bath.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Mix the Dough: Add the yeast mixture and melted butter to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough comes together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Pretzels:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the Dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Shape the Pretzels: Roll each piece into a long rope (about 12 inches), then shape each rope into a knot.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil and add baking soda.
- Boil the Pretzels: Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water, one at a time, and boil for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Pretzels:
- Brush with Egg: Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg.
- Add Salt: Sprinkle the pretzels generously with coarse salt.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve:
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pretzels to cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Love Knot Pretzels:
- With Mustard: Pair with yellow mustard or honey mustard for dipping.
- For Movie Nights: Serve alongside your favorite movie snacks for a cozy night in.
- As a Snack Platter: Include these pretzels in a snack spread with cheeses and charcuterie.
- With Cheese Sauce: Dip in melted cheese for an extra indulgent treat.
- For Breakfast: Serve warm with butter and jam for a delicious breakfast option.
- For Parties: Offer them as an appetizer or part of a party spread.
- As a Sandwich Base: Use them as a fun twist on traditional sandwiches.
- With Garlic Butter: Brush with garlic butter for an added savory touch.
- With Cinnamon Sugar: For a sweet variation, dust with cinnamon sugar.
- As a Gift: Package these pretzels in a cute bag for a homemade gift.
Additional Tips
- Let Dough Rest: Don’t rush the dough’s resting time—this is key to getting soft, chewy pretzels.
- Shape with Care: Take your time shaping the pretzels to get a neat knot shape.
- Boil Briefly: Boiling the pretzels briefly before baking gives them their signature texture and color.
- Use Parchment Paper: This helps prevent sticking during baking.
- Add Extra Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like garlic powder, cheese, or even sesame seeds.
Recipe Variations
- Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: After baking, brush with butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat.
- Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels: Roll cheese into the dough before shaping for a cheesy inside.
- Garlic Pretzels: Add garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor or top with garlic butter.
- Mini Pretzels: Shape the dough into smaller bite-sized pretzels for a fun, snackable version.
- Vegan Pretzels: Use plant-based butter and replace the egg wash with a non-dairy alternative.
- Pretzel Bites: Roll dough into small balls, boil, bake, and serve as pretzel bites.
- Spicy Pretzels: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the dough for a spicy kick.
Special Equipment
- Baking Sheet: For baking the pretzels.
- Large Pot: For boiling the pretzels before baking.
- Slotted Spoon: To remove the pretzels from the boiling water.
- Parchment Paper: For easy removal of the pretzels from the baking sheet.
- Pastry Brush: To apply the egg wash.
FAQ Section
- Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast works just as well. Skip the activation step and add it directly to the dry ingredients. - Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. - Can I freeze the pretzels?
Yes, freeze them after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving. - How do I get the pretzels to stay shiny?
Be sure to brush the pretzels with a well-beaten egg wash before baking for a glossy finish. - Can I add other toppings to the pretzels?
Absolutely! Try adding sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even shredded cheese for a unique twist. - What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and your water is warm, not hot, when activating. - Can I make the pretzels without baking soda?
While baking soda is key for the traditional pretzel crust, you can try using regular water for a different texture. - How do I store leftover pretzels?
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture. - Can I skip the boiling step?
For the traditional pretzel texture, it’s important to boil them. Skipping it will result in a different texture. - Can I use a different flour for the dough?
You can try whole wheat or gluten-free flour, though the texture may differ.
Conclusion
Love Knot Pretzels are a fun, heart-shaped twist on the classic soft pretzel, perfect for expressing affection or celebrating a special occasion. These warm, soft pretzels are made with a simple dough, kneaded to perfection, and then shaped into romantic “knot” formations. The end result is a beautiful, golden-brown treat that’s lightly salted on the outside, while soft and chewy on the inside.
For added flavor, you can brush the pretzels with melted butter after baking and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet touch or keep them savory with a sprinkle of sea salt. These pretzels can also be served with a creamy dipping sauce, like mustard, cheese, or chocolate, depending on whether you prefer a savory or sweet snack. Love Knot Pretzels make a perfect gift for Valentine’s Day, a romantic snack for two, or a charming addition to any special event or gathering. They’re fun to make and even more fun to share!
I can’t wait to see how your Love Knot Pretzels turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your sweet, heart-shaped creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made these knots your own!