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 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Collection

I love making Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers for a comforting meal that's both satisfying and nutritious. Each time I prepare these colorful peppers, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners. The combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, and vegetables packed into vibrant bell peppers creates a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, it's versatile enough to adjust according to what you have on hand. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, so you can enjoy it as much as I do!

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:13:35.312Z

One of my favorite things about these Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers is how they bring out the vibrant flavors of each ingredient. I remember the first time I decided to make them; I experimented with different spices and toppings, and I found a combination that highlights the juicy beef and fresh peppers beautifully. Each bite is packed with flavor, and I always enjoy watching my family devour them!

Another aspect I love is how customizable this recipe is. I often add a handful of black beans or corn, which not only enhances the nutritional value but also gives it a nice texture contrast. Whether you're using leftovers or starting fresh, these stuffed peppers are a fantastic way to create a balanced meal that's ready in no time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory and satisfying blend of seasoned beef and vegetables
Colorful presentation that brightens up your dinner table
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
Perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Bell Peppers

When selecting your bell peppers, opt for the larger ones to ensure they can hold enough filling. Look for peppers that are firm and unblemished, with a bright skin color that indicates ripeness. Each color of bell pepper brings a slightly different flavor profile; for example, red peppers are sweeter than green ones. If you're looking to add a bit of heat to your dish, consider mixing in a few jalapeños or using poblano peppers instead of traditional bell peppers.

Before starting the recipe, wash the peppers thoroughly. This ensures any residual pesticides or dirt are removed. Additionally, if you want your stuffed peppers to have a bit more depth of flavor, roast them slightly in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes before stuffing. This can enhance their sweetness and make the final dish even more delicious!

Enhancing the Filling

The filling for your stuffed peppers can be further enhanced with additional vegetables. Dicing a zucchini or adding corn can introduce more texture and nutrition. When browning the ground beef, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika for a more robust flavor. If using precooked rice, you can swap in quinoa for a protein boost or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

If you have leftovers or want to increase the batch, doubling the filling works seamlessly. Just be cautious with the cooking time; you may need to bake the peppers a bit longer to ensure everything is heated through, especially if they are tightly packed in the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Stuffed bell peppers are a great make-ahead meal. If you plan to prepare them in advance, assemble the peppers without baking, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.

For longer storage, these stuffed peppers can also be frozen. Wrap each prepared pepper tightly in aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, or thaw overnight in the fridge before baking to reduce cooking time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious stuffed peppers.

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients, you'll be ready to create a mouthwatering meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your stuffed bell peppers.

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.

Mix in Other Ingredients

Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in a little to ensure they're filled. Top with shredded cheese if desired.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted.

Let the stuffed peppers sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add your favorite hot sauce or spices into the beef mixture while cooking. You can also top with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers can be served on their own or paired with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce adds a nice kick and balances the richness of the beef filling. For a Mediterranean twist, serve with a side of tzatziki or a simple yogurt-based dressing.

If you want to elevate your serving, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives right before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile and freshness of the dish.

Texture and Cooking Techniques

For perfectly tender peppers, the key is to adjust baking times based on your oven and the size of the peppers. Keep an eye on them; you'll know they're ready when the skin is wrinkled and they are easily pierced with a fork. If you prefer a bit more crunch, reduce the baking time slightly or take them out when they still have a slight bite.

Additionally, should you notice the filling drying out, you can cover the baking dish with foil during the first part of the baking process to trap moisture. This helps keep your filling juicy and prevents any potential burning of the cheese topping if used.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake as directed when you're ready to eat.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.