Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef

Stuffed bell peppers with ground beef are a timeless comfort food dish loved by families across the world. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory, well-seasoned mixture of ground beef, rice, and aromatic herbs, then baked to perfection. The balance of tender-crisp bell peppers with a juicy, flavorful meat stuffing creates an unforgettable experience that satisfies both the palate and the heart. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep, this recipe is versatile, budget-friendly, and incredibly filling.

This classic recipe has roots in various cuisines, including Mediterranean, American, and Eastern European, each offering its own unique twist.

Today, we’ll walk you through the most delicious version that’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor.

Let’s dive into everything you need to make the ultimate stuffed bell peppers with ground beef!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start, gather the following equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Large pot for boiling (optional, for parboiling peppers)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (9×13 inch or similar)
• Aluminum foil
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

What Do You Need to Prepare Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef?

Ingredients:

• 6 large bell peppers (any color, tops removed, seeds and membranes cleaned)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred for juiciness)
• 1 cup cooked white rice (or brown rice/quinoa)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar, optional for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional add-ins:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked corn or black beans
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat

How to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef ? Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly so they stand upright. Optionally, blanch the peppers in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften slightly, then remove and drain. This helps reduce baking time.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat, then stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to pack. Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If desired, pour a little extra tomato sauce over the tops.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve with a side salad or crusty bread.

Variations

One of the best things about stuffed bell peppers is how easily they can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs. For a low-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice. Want more fiber? Add black beans or chopped spinach to the filling. You can also swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.

For an Italian twist, add a spoonful of marinara sauce to the filling and sprinkle Parmesan and Italian herbs. If you love spicy food, stir in red chili flakes or use hot Italian sausage instead of beef. Try Mexican-style stuffed peppers by seasoning the beef with taco spices and topping them with salsa and cheddar cheese.

You can also experiment with different types of cheeses provolone, Monterey Jack, feta, or goat cheese all bring unique flavors. And if you want a completely different texture, top the peppers with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

No matter how you switch it up, the base technique remains the same, making this recipe a canvas for your creativity!

Cooking Note

When preparing stuffed bell peppers, a few things can greatly enhance the outcome. First, parboiling the peppers before stuffing helps ensure they become perfectly tender during baking. However, if you prefer a bit of crunch, you can skip this step.

Choosing the right ground beef is important 80/20 ground beef offers the best balance between flavor and juiciness. If using leaner meat, consider adding a bit more tomato sauce or shredded cheese to compensate for moisture.

The filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making this a great option for meal prepping. Also, stuffed peppers freeze beautifully just bake them, cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

Using pre-cooked rice is a time-saver, but freshly cooked rice adds a softer texture. If using leftover rice from the fridge, warm it slightly before mixing it in with the beef so it blends better.

Lastly, covering the peppers with foil during the first part of baking ensures even cooking and prevents the cheese from overbrowning too early. Don’t skip this step if you want gooey, golden cheese on top!

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed bell peppers are a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with the right sides elevates the experience. Serve with a crisp garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. For a cozy comfort food dinner, try creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob on the side.

Looking for lighter options? A bowl of cucumber yogurt salad or roasted asparagus offers a refreshing contrast to the savory filling. Want to impress at a dinner party? Garnish each pepper with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant finish.

Stuffed bell peppers also reheat well, making them perfect for lunchboxes or meal preps. Simply store individual portions in airtight containers, and pair with a fruit cup or whole grain roll for a wholesome lunch.

Helpful Tips

1. Uniform Peppers: Choose bell peppers that are similar in size and have flat bottoms so they stand upright easily in the baking dish.
2. Flavor Boost: Toast the cooked rice briefly in the skillet before adding it to the filling it enhances the flavor and aroma.
3. Don’t Overstuff: Gently press the filling into the peppers but avoid over-packing. Too much filling may cause them to split.
4. Moisture Balance: If the mixture feels dry, stir in a few tablespoons of extra tomato sauce or broth before stuffing.
5. Bake with Broth: Pour a small amount of broth or water in the bottom of the baking dish before covering with foil. This helps steam the peppers for a tender texture.
6. Double Batch: Make extra and freeze a portion for future quick dinners.
7. Cheese Tip: Add cheese only during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
8. Leftovers: Chop up leftover stuffed peppers and mix with pasta or wrap in a tortilla for a next-day meal twist.

These little hacks ensure that your stuffed peppers come out flavorful, juicy, and cooked just right every time.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Use Fresh Peppers: Always choose fresh, firm bell peppers with vibrant colors.
• Cook the Filling Thoroughly: Since baking is mostly to heat and melt cheese, make sure the filling is fully cooked before stuffing.
• Pre-cook Peppers: Lightly blanching or steaming peppers makes them tender and less bitter.
• Cheese Variety: Mix mozzarella with Parmesan or a sharper cheese like cheddar for richer flavor.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to season each component—rice, meat, and vegetables—individually.
• Let Them Rest: After baking, let the peppers sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.

These tips help turn a simple dish into a star of the dinner table.

Timing Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 22 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

Related recipes :

• Crispy Chinese Coconut Shrimp Recipe
• Creamy One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
• Easy Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
• How to Make Perfect Pan Seared Scallops ?
• Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
• Easy Truffle Pasta Recipe

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?
A: Yes! Bake them fully, cool completely, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Q: Do I need to cook the rice before adding it to the filling?
A: Yes, use pre-cooked rice for best texture and to ensure it’s fully cooked during baking.

Q: What other meats can I use?
A: You can use ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or a meatless substitute.

Q: Can I make them in advance?
A: Absolutely. Prepare and stuff them a day ahead, store in the fridge, and bake before serving.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell peppers with ground beef are a satisfying, wholesome, and incredibly flexible dish. Whether you stick to the classic combination or get creative with variations, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its perfect balance of protein, grains, and veggies, it’s a one-dish wonder that’s ideal for busy families, health-conscious eaters, or anyone who loves good food.

Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back to it again and again.

Happy cooking!

Print