Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious, wholesome meal made with bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. This comforting dish is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Plus, it’s packed with healthy vegetables and protein to keep you satisfied.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cook Notes
• Variations
• Serving Suggestions
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 6 medium bell peppers (red, yellow, green, or a mix)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in the prepared baking dish, standing upright.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Mix in the Rice and Tomatoes

Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each bell pepper, packing it down slightly. Top each stuffed pepper with a generous amount of shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from the oven and let the stuffed bell peppers cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Cook Notes

• Bell Pepper Colors: Using a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers adds a vibrant color to the dish. Red and yellow peppers are sweeter, while green peppers are slightly more bitter.
• Rice Options: Brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice can be used for added nutrition or a low-carb option.
• Cheese Choices: Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack all work well for this recipe, depending on your preference.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Replace the ground beef with black beans, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu for a hearty vegetarian option.

2. Spicy Stuffed Peppers

Add 1 diced jalapeño or 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a bit of heat.

3. Italian Stuffed Peppers

Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef and add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the filling for an Italian-inspired twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing side.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra tomato sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted zucchini, carrots, or green beans for extra veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Stuffed Peppers Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed bell peppers up to 1 day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I Freeze Stuffed Bell Peppers?

Yes, stuffed peppers freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Stuffed Bell Peppers are a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for a family meal. With a hearty filling of seasoned beef, rice, and tomatoes, topped with melted cheese, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time. Customize the filling to suit your taste, and enjoy this classic recipe whenever you’re in the mood for something flavorful and satisfying.

Did you make this recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts—share your experience in the comments below and let us know any variations you tried!