Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Baked to perfection and topped with melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep. Its colorful presentation and satisfying flavors make it a timeless favorite.

ingredients

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

bell peppers (any color)ground beefcooked white ricediced onionsminced garlictomato sauceItalian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)salt and pepperolive oilshredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

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

Drizzle a bit of olive oil on the peppers and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes to slightly soften.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onions and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.

Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture is well combined and heated through.

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in firmly.

Top each pepper with shredded cheese.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 stuffed peppers.Preparation time: 15 minutesInitial bake: 10 minutesStuffing and final bake: 35-40 minutesTotal time: 60-65 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Use brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition.

Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra veggies.

Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy texture.

Use spicy sausage for a kick of heat.

storage/reheating

Store stuffed bell 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 in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.Freezing tip: Wrap each stuffed pepper individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate them up to a day ahead. Just bake when ready to serve.

Do I have to pre-bake the peppers?

Pre-baking helps soften the peppers and makes for a better texture, but you can skip it for a firmer result.

Can I use uncooked rice?

It’s best to use pre-cooked rice to ensure proper texture and even cooking.

What cheeses work best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend all work wonderfully.

How do I keep them from falling over?

Trim the bottom slightly to help the peppers sit flat in the baking dish.

Can I add beans?

Yes, black beans or kidney beans make a great addition for extra protein and texture.

Are stuffed bell peppers gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients (like seasonings and sauces) are gluten-free.

What type of bell pepper is best?

Any color works, but red and yellow peppers are sweeter, while green is more savory.

Can I make this spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for extra heat.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild, cheesy, and packed with familiar flavors kids enjoy.

Conclusion

Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious all-in-one meal packed with savory meat, tender rice, and melty cheese, all wrapped in a nutritious pepper shell. With easy customization options and great make-ahead potential, this dish is a reliable go-to for busy weeknights or satisfying family dinners.