Print

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

5.3 from 27 reviews

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal featuring bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of lean ground beef, brown rice, diced tomatoes, and aromatic spices, topped with melted cheddar jack cheese. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Stuffed Bell Peppers

  • 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)

Filling

  • 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 Medium Onion (diced)
  • 23 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
  • 1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice
  • 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can)
  • 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
  • 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika
  • Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)

Toppings and Garnish

  • 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
  • Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the 7 large bell peppers cut side up in a baking dish or rimmed tray.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook Ground Beef: Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, about 5-6 minutes.
  4. Add Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in the cooked brown rice, canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
  5. Simmer Filling: Continue cooking the mixture, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly for about 4-5 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Stuff Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each prepared bell pepper, filling them evenly.
  7. Bake Stuffed Peppers: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the peppers are just tender but still hold their shape.
  8. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the peppers from the oven and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese on top of each. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • For a smoky flavor, you can substitute paprika with smoked paprika.
  • Use avocado oil or olive oil for a healthier fat option.
  • To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat alternatives.
  • Use different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
  • For softer peppers, bake a few minutes longer but be careful not to overcook to prevent mushiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, ground beef recipes, easy dinner, baked peppers, healthy stuffed peppers, one dish meal