Stuffed Peppers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed Peppers are a hearty and colorful dish that combines bell peppers with a savory filling of seasoned ground meat, rice, vegetables, and cheese. Baked to perfection, they offer a wholesome, all-in-one meal that’s satisfying, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Their versatility allows for endless variations to suit your taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bell peppersground beef (or turkey/chicken)cooked riceoniongarlictomato sauceItalian seasoningshredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)saltblack pepperolive oil

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes until the mixture is well combined.

Spoon the filling into the hollowed peppers, packing it tightly.

Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.

Place the peppers upright in the prepared baking dish and cover with foil.

Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 stuffed peppers.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 40-45 minutesTotal time: 60-65 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for plant-based meat or lentils for a vegetarian version.

Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different grain base.

Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for extra veggies.

Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce mixed into the filling.

Top with feta or pepper jack cheese for a flavor twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave on high for 2-3 minutes until heated through.They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I prepare stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them up to a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.

What type of bell peppers work best?

Any color works, but red, yellow, and orange are sweeter than green.

Can I use raw rice in the filling?

No, rice should be cooked beforehand to ensure proper texture and doneness.

Do I need to pre-cook the peppers?

Not necessary, but pre-boiling for 5 minutes can make them softer.

Can I bake them without cheese?

Absolutely, or substitute with a dairy-free option.

What side dishes go with stuffed peppers?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

How do I keep the peppers from tipping over?

Trim the bottoms slightly to make them sit flat, or nestle them close together in the baking dish.

Can I cook them in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Are they gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the ingredients used (like tomato sauce) are certified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it scales easily for larger servings.

Conclusion

Stuffed Peppers are a deliciously balanced dish packed with protein, grains, and veggies—all neatly wrapped in a colorful bell pepper. They’re perfect for meal prepping or impressing guests with minimal effort. Enjoy this comforting classic and make it your own with endless filling possibilities.

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