Name: Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown); 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste); ½ tsp black pepper; 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley

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If you’re craving something both comforting and colorful, this Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe is an absolute winner. Picture vibrant bell peppers bursting with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and your heart with warmth. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these stuffed peppers offer a satisfying, wholesome dinner that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine clear glass bowls and containers arranged on a white marbled surface. At the top left is a bowl filled with black beans, next to it on the right is a bowl full of shredded yellow cheese. Below the black beans is a bowl of diced red tomatoes with juice, and beside it in the middle is a rectangular container with raw ground beef that is red with a textured surface. Below the tomatoes is an empty small bowl, next to it a small bowl with chopped white onions. Below that are two small bowls: the left one has minced garlic, and the right one contains brown taco seasoning powder. On the right side of the image are four bell peppers, two yellow and two red, placed in a square shape with green stems facing upward. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe lies in simple, quality ingredients that come together for an amazing result. Each element plays its part, from the sweetness of the bell peppers to the robust flavors in the filling, creating a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.

4 large bell peppers (any color): Provides a sweet, crunchy vessel that becomes tender when baked, adding vibrant color to the dish.
1 lb ground beef: The hearty and savory base that makes this recipe satisfying and protein-packed.
1 tbsp olive oil: Used to soften the aromatics and keep the beef juicy.
1 small onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the filling.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the mixture with warm, fragrant flavor that energizes every bite.
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown): Binds the filling together while offering a comforting texture.
1 cup tomato sauce: Brings moisture and tangy sweetness that brightens the beef.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds aromatic complexity.
½ tsp paprika: Lends a gentle smoky warmth that enhances the filling.
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick to keep things interesting.
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top creating a golden, bubbly finish.
Optional garnish: fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, herbaceous note and brightens the plate visually.

How to Make Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking. Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. This creates a hollow space perfect for stuffing. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish, arranging them snugly to support the filling later on.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics and Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it softens and becomes translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to awaken its aroma without burning.

Next, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling from getting greasy.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper directly into the skillet with the beef. Combining all these ingredients allows each pepper to be generously filled with a well-seasoned, moist mixture that blends textures and flavors perfectly.

Step 4: Stuff and Bake the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice filling evenly into each hollowed pepper, packing gently but not too tightly to keep it tender. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil to trap steam during cooking, and bake for 30 minutes. This will soften the peppers and meld the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top of each pepper. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden, and the peppers are tender to the fork but still hold their shape.

How to Serve Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley can add a refreshing herbal note and a pop of green that makes the dish look even more inviting. Sometimes, a drizzle of extra tomato sauce or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the flavors and presentation.

Side Dishes

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or a light soup to start. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread complement the savory beef filling perfectly and round out the dinner beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try halving the stuffed peppers for appetizer-sized portions at parties or arranging them on a platter garnished with colorful herbs and lemon wedges. You can also serve the filling separately over a bed of sautéed greens for a deconstructed version that’s just as flavorful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stuffed peppers keep very well in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze stuffed peppers either before or after baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in a freezer-safe container. They can stay good for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave on medium power, covered, to avoid drying out the peppers. Adding a splash of tomato sauce or water before reheating can help keep them moist.

FAQs

Can I use different types of peppers for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bell peppers are traditional, you can use poblano or even large sweet mini peppers if you want to experiment with different flavors and spice levels. Just adjust cooking times to ensure tenderness.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and follow the same steps. Add extra spices or vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to boost the flavor and texture.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Definitely. You can make the beef and rice filling up to two days in advance. Keep it refrigerated and stuff the peppers right before baking for convenience on a busy night.

What can I substitute for rice in the filling?

Quinoa is a great protein-packed alternative, or you could try cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Both will change the texture slightly but still taste delicious.

How do I ensure the peppers don’t become too mushy?

To avoid mushiness, you can parboil the peppers for just 5 minutes before stuffing to soften them slightly without losing their structure. Also, avoid overbaking by checking tenderness once the cheese is melted.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe is such a joyful dish to make and share because it brings comfort and vibrant flavors together with such ease. Whether you’re new to cooking stuffed peppers or a longtime fan, I encourage you to give this recipe a go — it’s a classic that never disappoints and always feels like home on a plate.