Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers because they are both colorful and satisfying. Each bell pepper is a delightful package filled with savory ground beef, rice, and spices that bring comfort to any dinner table. It's a wonderful way to incorporate vegetables into our meals while still enjoying a hearty dish. Plus, the vibrant colors of the peppers make this dish visually appealing. I've found that a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking elevates the flavors and makes it even more indulgent!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:49:35.149Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of stuffing bell peppers, I was intrigued by how versatile they could be. I’ve played around with various fillings over the years, but the classic combination of ground beef, rice, and spices always wins. I've learned through trial and error that pre-cooking the rice ensures everything cooks evenly and gives the dish the perfect texture.

One tip I often share is to choose peppers that have a flat base to avoid tipping over in the oven. Not only does this keep the filling intact, but it also creates an even cook, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. I've even experimented with adding different toppings, like a sprinkle of parmesan, to take it to another level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty filling that satisfies even the hungriest appetites
Colorful presentation that adds fun to any dinner
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

Understanding Your Ingredients

The choice of bell peppers can significantly affect the flavor and overall presentation of your dish. While green peppers are slightly bitter, red, yellow, and orange peppers offer a sweeter taste profile. For a balance, I often mix different colors to provide both aesthetic appeal and variety in flavor. Use firm peppers that are free from blemishes for the best results, as they will hold their shape better during baking.

Ground beef is the star protein in this recipe, contributing richness and nutrients. Choosing a lean ground beef blend helps reduce the greasiness of the filling. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives can provide a leaner profile without sacrificing flavor, especially when seasoned well with the spices listed in the recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When filling the peppers, ensure you pack the mixture tightly but avoid overstuffing, which can cause them to burst during baking. Using a spoon or small scoop makes it easier to fill evenly. I recommend placing the stuffed peppers upright in the baking dish to prevent them from tipping over. Add a couple of tablespoons of water to the bottom of the dish to create steam, which helps cook the peppers evenly and retain moisture.

Baking covered for the first 30 minutes helps the peppers soften while allowing the flavors to meld. Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes encourages the cheese to develop a nice, golden crust. If you prefer a more caramelized flavor, allow the cheese to brown for an additional few minutes. Just watch closely to avoid burning, as cheese can go from perfectly browned to charred quickly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare these delicious stuffed bell peppers:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a delightful meal that's both filling and nutritious.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stuffed bell peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each prepared bell pepper with the beef mixture. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, add a bit of water to the bottom, and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and brown.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

Enjoy these flavorful stuffed peppers warm - a complete meal in every bite.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling by adding black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor!

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is excellent for meal prepping! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply stuff the peppers right before baking to keep them fresh. Alternatively, ready-to-bake stuffed peppers can also be frozen. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer; just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

If you have leftover stuffed peppers, they can be easily reheated. Microwaving is the quickest method—simply place them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water to retain moisture and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers make for a complete meal on their own, but you can serve them alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for added texture and taste. Consider a light vinaigrette to contrast the hearty filling. You might also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving for an added burst of flavor.

For a fun twist, consider serving the stuffed peppers over a bed of quinoa or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option. This not only extends the dish but also adds a different texture and flavor, catering to various dietary preferences. It’s a delicious way to incorporate additional vegetables while enhancing the overall nutritional value.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.

→ Can I freeze these stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just bake them straight from frozen, adding a little extra time.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian meat alternatives work well as substitutes.

→ How do I add more flavor?

Consider adding herbs like oregano or basil, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.