Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
These colorful peppers are packed with a savory filling of ground beef, rice, and spices, all topped with melted cheese. They’re not only satisfying but also full of flavor.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting Board & Knife
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Baking dish (9x13-inch)
- Aluminum Foil
- Cheese grater (optional)
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers any color
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice white or brown
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce plus extra for topping
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika optional, for extra flavor
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers (10 minutes)
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. If the peppers don’t sit upright, trim the bottom slightly (without cutting through).
- Arrange the hollowed-out peppers in the baking dish so they’re ready to be filled.
- Pro Tip: If you like softer peppers, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before stuffing. This makes them extra tender!
Step 2: Cook the Filling (15 minutes)
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
- Drain any excess grease, then add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 cup cooked rice, 1 can drained diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, and all seasonings (Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, paprika). Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- I love tasting the filling at this stage—this is where you can adjust seasonings if needed!
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers & Bake (30-35 minutes)
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each bell pepper, packing it in gently.
- Pour a little extra tomato sauce over the tops for extra moisture. Cover the dish with foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Pro Tip: If you love a golden, crispy cheese topping, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes!
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven and let the peppers sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
- Serve hot and enjoy these delicious, cheesy stuffed peppers!
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving – 1 Stuffed Pepper)
- Calories: ~350-400 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~15g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Sugar: ~6g
- Sodium: ~600mg
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.