Not every dog treat needs to come from a bag at the store. These frozen stuffed bell pepper dog treats are not only easy to make, but they’re also a great way to keep dogs cool and happy—especially when it’s warm out or they just need a little enrichment.
These treats are filled with good stuff, and they double as a fun project for dog parents who want to give their furry friends something a little extra.
The best part? These treats are loaded with fresh ingredients, don’t require anything fancy, and come together with just a few steps. Perfect for busy weeks or just a simple way to show the dog some love.
What You’ll Need
- 8–10 sweet mini bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange work best)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened and no added flavors)
- ½ pound extra lean ground beef
- ½ cup finely chopped carrots
- 1 cup fresh spinach, torn into smaller pieces
Pro Tips
- Go mini for the perfect portion: Mini bell peppers are the perfect size for most dogs. Not too big, not too small—just right for a fun, cooling treat.
- Cook the meat in water for better digestion: Boiling ground beef instead of pan-frying keeps the fat low and makes it easier on sensitive stomachs.
- Blanch the peppers: A quick dunk in boiling water helps soften the skins, which is especially helpful for smaller dogs or older pups with fewer teeth.
- Cool all the way before freezing: Let everything come to room temperature before stuffing and freezing to prevent freezer burn and ice crystals.
- Freeze upright: Use a container or muffin tin to help the peppers stand tall while freezing. This keeps the filling in place and makes them easier to serve later.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium or large pot (for boiling and blanching)
- Steamer or steaming basket
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl and spoon
- Freezer-safe container or tray
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option
- Pumpkin purée can be swapped in for Greek yogurt if dairy isn’t tolerated
- Other veggies like green beans or zucchini can replace carrots and spinach
- Plant-based version: Try cooked lentils or quinoa instead of meat for a meat-free treat
- Add-ins: A small spoonful of peanut butter or flaxseed for added taste and benefits
Make Ahead Tips
These treats can be made ahead and stored in the freezer for up to two months. A great grab-and-go option when time is short or something cooling is needed after a long walk.
How to Make Them
- Prep the peppers Slice off the tops and remove seeds and membranes. Try to keep the peppers intact for easy stuffing.
- Blanch the peppers Boil water in a pot. Drop in the peppers for 2 minutes, then move to a bowl of ice water to cool. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the ground beef Add beef to a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil, and simmer until fully cooked. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain and let it cool.
- Steam the veggies In a steamer, cook carrots for 2–3 minutes. Add spinach in the last minute just to wilt. Cool everything completely.
- Mix the filling In a bowl, combine the cooled beef, veggies, and yogurt. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Stuff the peppers Spoon the mixture into each pepper, packing gently to fill.
- Freeze Place upright in a container or tray and freeze for at least 3 hours, or until solid.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Treat)
- Calories: 52 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: High
- Vitamin C: High
- Calcium: Low
- Iron: Moderate
Note: Values may vary slightly depending on exact portion sizes and ingredients used.
Leftovers and Storage
Keep extras stored in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Always serve frozen. These make great occasional treats, especially when something cooling or boredom-busting is needed.
FAQs
Can regular bell peppers be used? Yes, but the size may be too large for smaller dogs. Mini peppers are more practical for smaller portions.
Is Greek yogurt safe for all dogs? In most cases, yes—just make sure it’s plain and has no added sugar or artificial sweeteners like xylitol.
Do these need to be cooked before freezing? The filling should be fully cooked before freezing, but the final stuffed treat is meant to be served frozen.
How often can these be given? These are a treat, not a meal replacement. Once or twice a week is a good rule depending on the dog’s size and diet.
Can other proteins be used? Definitely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even soft scrambled eggs can work if they’re a better fit for the dog’s diet.
Final Words
These frozen stuffed bell pepper treats are a simple and fun way to show dogs a little extra love—especially on hot days or just when they deserve something special.
Try it out and share how it goes in the comments below! And if there are any questions, don’t hesitate to ask.