Stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort food that’s both delicious and versatile. Packed with a flavorful filling of seasoned ground meat, rice, and vegetables, these stuffed peppers make for a wholesome meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a meal-prep-friendly dish, this recipe is a perfect choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
✔ Customizable – Swap ingredients to fit your diet (vegetarian, keto, or gluten-free).
✔ Meal-Prep Friendly – Make ahead and reheat for a quick meal.
✔ One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup for a hassle-free dinner.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Lightly brush the insides with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
2. Cook the Filling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Stuff & Bake
- Spoon the filling evenly into each bell pepper.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake for another 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan. Serve hot!
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers
🔹 Use Firm Bell Peppers – This helps them hold their shape while baking.
🔹 Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.
🔹 Low-Carb Option – Substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
🔹 Vegetarian Alternative – Use black beans, quinoa, or mushrooms instead of meat.
🔹 Cheese Lovers – Try adding cream cheese to the filling for extra creaminess.
Check out: Easy Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps Recipe
FAQs About Stuffed Bell Peppers
1. Can I Make Stuffed Peppers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed.
2. Can I Freeze Stuffed Peppers?
Absolutely! Freeze stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. What Side Dishes Go Well with Stuffed Peppers?
They pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or mashed potatoes.
4. Can I Cook Stuffed Peppers in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted.
5. Do I Have to Pre-Cook the Peppers?
No, but pre-baking them for 5-10 minutes before stuffing makes them softer.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed bell peppers are a comforting, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that can be customized to suit any dietary preference. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or meal prep, they are sure to be a hit!
👉 Did you try this recipe? Share your experience in the comments and tag us on social media! #StuffedBellPeppers #HealthyEats #ComfortFood #Comfort #Food 😊 😊
Would you like me to adjust anything, such as adding specific dietary variations? 😊
Read more: Best Irish Egg Rolls Recipe
Print
Best Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Stuffed Bell Peppers are a hearty and flavorful dish filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese, all baked inside tender bell peppers. This comforting meal is easy to customize and perfect for a family dinner!
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
For Topping:
- ¼ cup additional tomato sauce
- ¼ cup shredded cheese (for melting)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Peppers:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds/membranes.
- Lightly coat the insides with olive oil and salt.
- Place them in a baking dish, cut-side up.
Cook the Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Stuff and Bake:
- Spoon the meat mixture into each bell pepper, filling to the top.
- Drizzle extra tomato sauce over each stuffed pepper.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Melt the Cheese & Serve:
- Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Notes
- Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or sausage.
- Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, baked peppers, healthy dinner, easy meal