Colorful, hearty, and packed with savory goodness, Stuffed Bell Peppers are a classic comfort food that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Tender bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, tomatoes, herbs, and melted cheese, then baked until perfectly tender. This easy, family-friendly recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Main Course
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Peppers
- 6 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, divided
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Fresh basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Brush the outside lightly with olive oil and sprinkle the insides with a little salt.
Arrange the peppers upright in a baking dish.
For softer peppers, pour about ½ cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 3: Combine the Filling
Stir into the skillet:
- Cooked rice
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Tomato paste
- Worcestershire sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Remove from the heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the filling evenly into each bell pepper.
Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Step 5: Bake
Bake covered for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for 10–15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the peppers to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley, basil, or grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 690mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending