Stuffed Bell Peppers

tuffed Bell Peppers are a classic comfort food that combines tender bell peppers with a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese. This dish is both hearty and nutritious, making it a favorite for family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Meal: Combines protein, vegetables, and grains in one dish.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance for convenient meals.
• Freezer-Friendly: Store leftovers for future use.
• Visually Appealing: Vibrant colors make for an attractive presentation.

Ingredients

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

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (90% lean)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a large baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the ribs and seeds. Place the peppers cut side down in the baking dish and add 1 1/2 cups of water to the dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
3. While the peppers are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Remove the peppers from the oven and drain any excess water. Turn the peppers cut side up and fill each with the beef and rice mixture. Top each pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Grain Alternatives: Use quinoa, brown rice, or couscous instead of white rice.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with a mixture of beans, lentils, or chopped vegetables.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or feta cheese for different flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place cooled stuffed peppers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

What type of bell peppers should I use?

You can use any color of bell peppers—green, red, yellow, or orange. Red and yellow peppers are sweeter, while green peppers have a more robust flavor.

Can I prepare stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed peppers up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready.

How do I prevent the peppers from becoming too soft?

Pre-baking the peppers for 25 minutes ensures they are tender but not mushy. Avoid overbaking after stuffing.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of beans, lentils, or chopped vegetables for a vegetarian version.

What side dishes pair well with stuffed bell peppers?

Stuffed bell peppers pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

How do I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use your preferred cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or feta.

Is it necessary to cook the rice beforehand?

Yes, using cooked rice ensures the filling is properly cooked and the texture is ideal.

Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Yes, allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely, then freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat frozen stuffed bell peppers?

Thaw the peppers in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Conclusion

Stuffed Bell Peppers are a versatile and satisfying dish that can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers a delicious and convenient option. Enjoy the combination of flavors and the comfort of a home-cooked meal.

Print