Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 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 cup tomato sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers for dinner! This dish has become a favorite in my household because it's not only hearty and filling, but it's also a great way to sneak in some vegetables. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers alongside the savory beef create a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Plus, you can customize the stuffing to your liking, making this recipe perfect for any occasion. Let's dive into how we make these delicious stuffed peppers!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:22:27.815Z

When I first experimented with Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers, I was amazed at how versatile the dish turned out to be. Cooking the beef with spices and herbs created a rich flavor that perfectly complemented the sweet and tender bell peppers. I found that adding a bit of cheese on top right before baking really takes the dish to the next level, achieving that gooey texture everyone loves!

One of the key tips I discovered is to lightly roast the pepper halves before stuffing them. This enhances their natural sweetness and reduces cooking time. I typically use a mix of tomato sauce and seasonings in the filling, but feel free to get creative with your ingredients. It’s a wonderful way to use up leftovers!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty stuffed peppers rich in protein and flavor
Versatile recipe with endless customization options
Balanced meal packed with vegetables and satisfaction

Preparing the Bell Peppers

When selecting bell peppers, choose ones that feel firm and heavy for their size, as these will hold up better during cooking. The vibrant colors of red, yellow, or orange not only add visual appeal but also offer a touch of sweetness that balances the savory beef filling. Before roasting, cutting a thin slice off the bottom of each pepper, if needed, can help them stand upright in the baking dish, preventing any tipping during baking.

Roasting the peppers for about 10 minutes before stuffing not only softens them slightly but also enhances their natural sweetness. Keep an eye on them; you want them to become just tender but not fully cooked, as they will finish baking later with the stuffing. If you prefer a bit of char, increase the roasting time by a few minutes while watching closely to prevent burning.

Filling Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to the stuffing. If you want a healthier twist, consider swapping out the ground beef for lean ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives. Furthermore, adding ingredients like black beans, corn, or diced vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms can introduce additional texture and nutrition. I often experiment with different grains like quinoa or farro instead of rice for a unique flavor and added fiber.

Herbs and spices can also be tailored to your taste. While Italian seasoning works wonderfully, incorporating cumin and paprika can give your stuffed peppers a Tex-Mex flair. You could also try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving, which brightens the dish and adds freshness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once prepared, Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep them fresh, I recommend placing them in an airtight container. If you're looking for longer storage options, these stuffed peppers freeze beautifully. Just make sure to allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy leftovers or frozen stuffed peppers, reheating is simple. For refrigerated ones, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to let them thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake. This ensures even heating, allowing the cheese to melt nicely and the peppers to reheat thoroughly without becoming mushy.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Gather all your ingredients to make the preparation smoother.

Instructions

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly roast them in the oven for about 10 minutes while preparing the filling.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it lightly. Top with shredded cheese. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the peppers are tender.

Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter version. You can also add other vegetables like corn or beans to the filling for extra texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving the stuffed peppers on a bed of fresh greens or alongside a vibrant salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty flavors of the peppers perfectly. Add some crusty bread or garlic knots on the side for a complete meal that satisfies all flavor cravings and texture preferences.

For a fun, casual setup, cut the stuffed peppers in half and serve them as bite-sized appetizers at a gathering. Pairing them with a homemade salsa or yogurt dip can add refreshing contrasts to the rich filling. Guests will appreciate the mix of flavors and the portability of these charming pepper halves.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your peppers come out too soft, it might be due to over-roasting before stuffing. Aim to roast them just enough to soften but not fully cook. Conversely, if they are still too firm after baking, you can return them to the oven covered for an additional 5-10 minutes, which will help them tenderize without overcooking the filling.

Another common issue is the filling spilling over. Making sure to pack the stuffing lightly can help prevent this. Additionally, if you notice the cheese is browning too fast, you can cover the dish with foil during the latter part of baking to allow the peppers to cook through while protecting the cheese from becoming overly browned.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes for a different flavor and texture.

→ How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

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

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. They can be re-baked directly from frozen.