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Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Stuffed Peppers:
  • 6 large bell peppers (any color or mixed)
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean, 85–90%)
  • 1 cup cooked white rice (or brown rice)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (divided)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil)
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • For Baking Sauce:
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Garnish (optional):
  • Fresh parsley or basil
  • Extra cheese for topping

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Prepare Bell Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Blanch them in boiling water for 3–4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  • Cook Beef Filling:
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  • Add ground beef, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until beef is browned and crumbly.
  • Add Rice and Sauce: Stir in cooked rice and half of the tomato sauce. Mix until well combined. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
  • Stuff Peppers: Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper, packing firmly. Place them upright in a baking dish.
  • Add Baking Sauce: In a bowl, mix remaining tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this around and lightly over the peppers.
  • Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
  • Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving.