Introduction

Stuffed bell peppers are a wholesome, colorful, and satisfying dish where hollowed-out peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, herbs, and cheese, then baked to tender perfection. This classic recipe combines vibrant vegetables with hearty meat and grains, making it a complete meal in one pretty package.

It’s a dish that feels both homey and elegant perfect for weeknight dinners yet special enough for gatherings. The bright bell peppers not only add a pop of color but also a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich, savory filling.

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something comforting and wholesome about stuffed bell peppers, and this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. What I love most is how tender bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, herbs, and spices, then baked until everything melds together beautifully. Each bite is hearty, flavorful, and satisfying, making it a meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

This recipe is a celebration of classic comfort food with a healthy twist. The bell peppers provide a vibrant, slightly sweet contrast to the savory filling, while the combination of beef, rice, and seasonings creates a satisfying and balanced dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or whenever you want a filling, one-dish meal that everyone enjoys.

For me, this dish is a must-have because it’s more than just stuffed peppers—it’s a wholesome, flavorful experience. The mix of textures and flavors, from tender peppers to savory filling, makes it a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice is a hearty, flavorful, and visually appealing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. Tender, Flavorful Bell Peppers – The peppers roast to perfection, providing a slightly sweet and tender vessel for the savory filling.
2. Savory, Well-Seasoned Filling – The combination of ground beef, rice, herbs, and spices creates a hearty, flavorful interior that satisfies every bite.
3. Wholesome and Balanced – With protein, vegetables, and grains in one dish, it’s a nutritious and filling meal.
4. Perfect for Family Meals or Meal Prep – Easy to make in batches, these stuffed peppers are great for weekly dinners or preparing ahead of time.
5. Crowd-Pleaser – The combination of flavors, textures, and colorful presentation makes it appealing for both kids and adults alike.

Trying this recipe guarantees a wholesome, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s satisfying, nutritious, and sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6 stuffed peppers
• Calories: ~320 per stuffed pepper

Ingredients

For the Peppers

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds/membranes.
3. Brush inside and outside lightly with olive oil.
4. Place peppers upright in a baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
4. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

1. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, pressing down lightly to pack the filling.
2. Top each with a spoonful of extra tomato sauce.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove foil, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped parsley.
2. Serve warm, either whole or sliced in half.

How to Serve

• Serve as a complete meal with a side salad or garlic bread.
• Pair with roasted vegetables for an extra serving of greens.
• Works great as a reheated lunch the next day.

Additional Recipe Tips & Variations

• Meat Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
• Grain Swap: Try quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
• Extra Veggies: Add chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individually wrapped stuffed peppers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or thaw overnight and reheat for 15–20 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
• Aluminum foil
• Sharp knife for pepper prep

FAQ

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Q: Do I need to pre-cook the peppers?
No, but if you like softer peppers, you can boil them for 3–4 minutes before stuffing.

Q: Can I make this low-carb?
Yes, replace rice with cauliflower rice.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, replace beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Conclusion

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice are the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition — they’re hearty enough for a main course yet colorful and fresh enough to feel light. They’re endlessly adaptable, freeze well for meal prep, and never fail to impress on the table.