Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Heartfelt Meals

I absolutely love making ground beef stuffed bell peppers; they’re not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. With the hearty combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, and fresh veggies, every bite feels like a comforting hug. I enjoy experimenting with seasonings and adding different toppings like cheese or herbs. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, and it never fails to impress family and friends with its vibrant presentation and rich flavors. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:05:35.744Z

When I first tried ground beef stuffed bell peppers, I was amazed by how well the flavors meld together. The sweet bell peppers complement the savory beef beautifully. I found that lightly pre-cooking the peppers before stuffing them helps enhance their sweetness while ensuring they remain vibrant and crunchy.

Each time I make this dish, I focus on using fresh ingredients and a good blend of spices, which really brings everything to life. Experimenting with different toppings, such as shredded cheese or chopped cilantro, has made it a family favorite that I'm proud to serve at gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful and inviting presentation that brightens your table
Flavor-packed filling that satisfies any meat lover
Easily customizable to suit different taste preferences

Choosing the Right Bell Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this dish, opt for ones that are firm and have smooth skins. Choose a variety of colors for a visually striking presentation; red, yellow, and green peppers not only enhance the dish's appeal but also add subtle differences in flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, the red and yellow peppers are fantastic options. The vegetables should be about the same size to ensure even cooking; larger peppers can encapsulate more filling but may require slightly longer baking time.

Another tip is to look for uniformity in size when buying your peppers, as this will help with even cooking. If you're in a pinch, you can use smaller peppers or even poblano peppers for a delightful twist. They provide a slight heat, enhancing the overall flavor of your filling. Just be mindful that softer peppers might require less baking time; keep an eye on them to achieve the ideal tenderness without losing structure.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling is the heart of stuffed bell peppers, and using a combination of ingredients adds depth to the flavor profile. While ground beef is classic, feel free to substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just remember to season these meats adequately, as they can be milder compared to beef. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can elevate the savory notes further, creating a complex taste that complements the sweetness of the peppers.

Incorporating a variety of vegetables in the filling—such as zucchini, chopped spinach, or corn—can enhance its nutritional value. Sauté these additions along with the onions and garlic for a few minutes before mixing with the meat and rice. Be mindful of the moisture content; adding too many watery vegetables might lead to a soggy filling. If this happens, consider using a thicker sauce or slightly reducing the vegetable quantity.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Leftovers of these stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For optimal flavor, allow them to cool completely before refrigerating. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can assemble the stuffed peppers and keep them uncooked in the fridge for a day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the refrigerator.

When it comes to serving, these stuffed peppers can stand alone as a hearty meal. However, pairing them with a fresh green salad or garlic bread can create a well-rounded dinner experience. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of crumbled feta on top right before serving can add an extra layer of flavor that brightens the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, try garnishing with avocado slices for a creamy finish.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need to get started on this delightful dish:

Ingredients for Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Now that you have all the ingredients, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stuffed bell peppers:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften slightly, then drain.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper, filling them generously. Top with cheese if desired.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to melt the cheese.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!

Your delicious stuffed bell peppers are ready to be devoured!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the filling. Also, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.

Make-Ahead Tips

Making ground beef stuffed bell peppers ahead of time can save you on busy weeknights. You can prepare and stuff the peppers a day in advance, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This approach allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When it’s time to cook, simply take them out of the fridge to let them come to room temperature while your oven preheats.

If you want even more convenience, consider freezing the stuffed peppers. Assemble them as directed, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months frozen. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual, adjusting the cooking time to ensure the filling is heated through completely.

Variations on the Recipe

This stuffed pepper recipe is incredibly flexible when it comes to variations. You can swap out the ground beef for vegetarian options like lentils, quinoa, or black beans for a meatless meal that’s just as satisfying. Add spices like cumin and smoked paprika for a different warm flavor profile. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate feta cheese, olives, and chopped artichokes into the filling for a fresh, tangy bite.

You might also experiment with different types of cheeses. While cheddar is a popular choice for topping, using mozzarella or pepper jack can create unique textures and flavors. Furthermore, serving these bell peppers with a tangy tomato sauce or a smooth ranch dressing can elevate your dish even more, making it a wonderful treat for diverse palates.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stuffed peppers come out too soggy, it may be due to excess moisture from the tomatoes or vegetables. To counter this, consider draining canned tomatoes, or cooking the filling on the stovetop longer to evaporate some liquid. Another way to avoid this issue is to precook the peppers without filling first for just a few minutes, allowing them to soften while helping prevent excess moisture retention.

Conversely, if your peppers are still crunchy after baking, it may be necessary to increase the baking time. Cover them with foil until the last few minutes to avoid burning while ensuring they cook through. Remember to check for doneness; properly roasted peppers should be tender but maintain their structure, so adjust your cooking based on their appearance during the bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven.

→ Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to freeze. They can be baked straight from frozen; just add extra cooking time.