This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a comforting, wholesome dish packed with flavor, protein, and vibrant colors. Perfect for busy weeknights, these stuffed peppers combine seasoned beef, rice, and melted cheese in one satisfying bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These stuffed bell peppers are simple to prepare, family-friendly, and incredibly versatile. The savory beef filling paired with tender peppers and gooey cheese creates a balanced meal that feels hearty yet fresh. It’s also a great make-ahead option for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1½ cups cooked brown rice
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (1 can)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 7 large bell peppers, tops removed and cored
- 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange bell peppers cut side up in a baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and paprika.
- Simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each pepper with the mixture.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until peppers begin to soften.
- Sprinkle cheese over the tops and bake for another 5–7 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Tips & Tricks
- Use red, yellow, or orange peppers for a sweeter flavor.
- Swap brown rice with quinoa or white rice if preferred.
- For extra spice, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Pre-cook peppers for 5 minutes if you prefer them softer.
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 7 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Halal-friendly
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Add vegetables like corn or zucchini to the filling for extra nutrition.
- Serve with a fresh salad or yogurt sauce on the side.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 14g
FAQ
Can I make stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate them before baking, then cook when ready.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
How do I prevent peppers from getting soggy?
Avoid overbaking and don’t add too much liquid to the filling.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace beef with lentils or plant-based alternatives.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend melts beautifully.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.
Similar Recipes
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 –3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1½ cups cooked brown rice
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes 1 can
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
- 7 large bell peppers tops removed and cored
- 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange bell peppers cut side up in a baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and paprika.
- Simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each pepper with the mixture.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until peppers begin to soften.
- Sprinkle cheese over the tops and bake for another 5–7 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Add vegetables like corn or zucchini to the filling for extra nutrition.
- Serve with a fresh salad or yogurt sauce on the side.
Conclusion
This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a reliable go-to for a delicious and nourishing meal. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.