Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting and vibrant meal that combines wholesome ingredients with delicious flavors, this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. Imagine tender bell peppers packed full of a savory mix of seasoned ground beef, hearty brown rice, and rich tomato goodness, all topped with melty cheddar jack cheese. This dish is not only visually stunning with its bright peppers but also utterly satisfying and straightforward to prepare, making it a wonderful choice for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings where everyone leaves the table happy and full.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients are the secret to this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe’s vibrant flavor and comforting texture. Each element plays a vital role in building layers of flavor—from the sweetness of the bell peppers to the hearty protein and rice filling, with herbs and spices to bring it all together beautifully.

• Extra-virgin Olive Oil (2 Tablespoons): Adds richness and helps soften the onion and garlic while imparting a mild, fruity flavor.
• Medium Onion (1, diced): Provides a sweet and savory base that enhances the overall filling.
• Garlic Cloves (2-3, minced): Infuses the mixture with aromatic warmth and depth.
• Lean Ground Beef (1 pound): The hearty, protein-packed star that makes the dish satisfying and filling.
• Cooked Brown Rice (1½ Cups): Adds wholesome fiber and a nutty texture that balances the juicy meat and vegetables.
• Diced Tomatoes (14.5 ounces, canned): Introduce tangy juiciness and a base for the sauce that keeps the filling moist.
• Tomato Paste (1 Tablespoon): Concentrates that classic tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Dried Oregano (1 Teaspoon): Offers a subtle herbal note that brings Mediterranean flair.
• Paprika (2 teaspoons): Adds smoky warmth and a beautiful color to the filling.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to brighten and balance every bite.
• Large Bell Peppers (7, tops and cores removed): The colorful edible vessels that provide sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
• Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese (1 Cup): Melts perfectly on top, adding creamy, gooey goodness and a sharp tang.
• Freshly Chopped Parsley: A fresh, herbaceous garnish that lifts and brightens the completed dish.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, setting the stage for perfectly baked peppers. Arrange the seven large bell peppers upright, cut side up, in a baking dish or rimmed tray to keep all the savory filling inside as they cook.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become soft and translucent. This step releases the natural sweetness of the onion that forms the base of the filling. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just for about one minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it!

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the lean ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Cook until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink. This ensures every bite is juicy yet tender. The beef will soak up all those wonderful onion and garlic aromas.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Tomato Mixture

To the cooked beef, stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and paprika. Allow the mixture to cook together for about 4 to 5 minutes so the sauce thickens and the flavors marry. Taste now and season generously with kosher salt and pepper—this is where you balance all the savory notes before filling the peppers.

Step 5: Stuff and Bake the Peppers

Carefully spoon the savory beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper until they are full but not overflowing. Place the stuffed peppers back into the baking dish, then bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the peppers are tender but still hold their shape.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Remove the peppers from the oven and generously sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese over the tops. Return to the oven for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into an irresistibly gooey, golden topping. Once out of the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that perfect fresh touch.

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is fantastic for a burst of color and brightness that complements the rich filling. For a little extra kick, you could add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, making each bite exciting and well-rounded.

Side Dishes

This dish shines best with simple, light sides that won’t compete with its bold flavors. Consider serving alongside a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread also makes a wonderful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any delicious juices left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe by serving each pepper on individual colorful plates to highlight the vibrant colors. For a fun family-style touch, slice the peppers in half after baking and arrange them on a platter for easy sharing. This dish also works beautifully as a meal prep option when neatly portioned in airtight containers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and ready to enjoy for up to 3 days, making them a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Place cooled stuffed peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen stuffed peppers can be stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts to heat evenly, covering to keep moisture locked in so the peppers stay tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked and flavorful.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can skip the meat and replace it with cooked lentils, black beans, or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and veggies to keep the filling hearty and satisfying.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or some hot sauce to the filling mixture. Topping the finished peppers with some sliced fresh chili peppers also adds a nice heat kick.

Can I prepare the peppers in advance?

Definitely. You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate them. When ready to eat, bake as directed—this can save significant time on a busy day.

Do I have to use brown rice?

Brown rice adds nuttiness and fiber, but you can substitute white rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Just be sure the rice is cooked before mixing with the filling.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is one of those every-home-should-have classics that delivers comfort, nutrition, and vibrant flavor all in one colorful package. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, it’s a hearty meal that’s straightforward to make and delightful to eat. Give it a try tonight—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!

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