Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a timeless and satisfying dish featuring hollowed-out bell peppers filled with a hearty mixture of seasoned ground meat, rice, vegetables, and topped with melted cheese. Baked until tender, this dish combines comfort, flavor, and nutrition all in one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and well-balanced with protein, vegetables, and grains in each serving

• Easy to customize with various fillings and dietary preferences

• Make-ahead friendly and ideal for meal prepping

• A crowd-pleasing comfort food perfect for family dinners

• Delicious leftovers that reheat well

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bell peppers

• Ground beef or sausage

• Cooked white or brown rice

• Onion

• Garlic

• Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes

• Shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)

• Olive oil

• Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Optionally trim the bottoms so they stand upright.

3. Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place them upright in a baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes to soften slightly.

4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

5. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

6. Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes to let flavors blend.

7. Spoon the filling into the pre-baked peppers. Top with shredded cheese.

8. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option

• Replace rice with quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for different textures or low-carb needs

• Add black beans, corn, or chopped spinach to the filling for extra nutrition

• Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and using beans, lentils, or tofu

• Top with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for added flavor

• Add chili flakes or jalapeños for a spicier version

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Freeze individually wrapped stuffed peppers for up to 3 months

• Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for 20 minutes, or microwave until heated through

• Thaw frozen peppers in the fridge overnight before reheating, or bake from frozen at a lower temperature for longer

FAQs

How do I keep stuffed peppers from getting soggy?

Avoid overloading the filling with liquids, and pre-bake the peppers slightly to reduce excess moisture.

Can I make stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them in advance and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I use instead of rice?

Try cooked quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice as an alternative.

Do I have to pre-cook the peppers?

Pre-cooking softens the peppers and ensures even cooking, but you can skip it for a firmer texture.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely—just use beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative.

What types of bell peppers work best?

Use firm, medium to large-sized bell peppers of any color. Red, yellow, and orange are sweeter than green.

How do I freeze stuffed peppers?

Cool completely, wrap individually, and store in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Use a larger baking dish or multiple dishes to fit them all.

What cheese works best?

Mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses all work great.

How can I add more flavor to the filling?

Add Worcestershire sauce, fresh herbs, chili flakes, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for deeper flavor.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell peppers are a wholesome, customizable, and comforting dish that brings warmth to the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing them for a quick weeknight meal or planning ahead for the week, this recipe offers flexibility, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite.