Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers for a comforting family meal. These colorful, wholesome peppers filled with savory ground meat, rice, and spices not only look beautiful on the table but also pack a punch of flavor. As I prepare each ingredient, I savor the anticipation of a warm, satisfying dish to bring us together. Cooking these peppers reminds me of family gatherings and the joy of sharing a delicious meal, making them an absolute favorite in our home.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:58:17.919Z

While experimenting with different stuffed pepper recipes, I created this delicious combination of flavors that unexpectedly became a family favorite. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients enhances the taste, and I’ve discovered that a touch of cumin adds a warm depth to the filling. I love to serve them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for that extra pop of flavor.

Over the years, I've learned some tips that make these stuffed peppers even better. For instance, pre-cooking the filling slightly before stuffing helps to merge the flavors beautifully and avoids any excess moisture in the peppers. It’s these small adjustments that have made this dish truly shine in our home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful, vibrant presentation that brightens any table
Customizable ingredients to suit everyone's taste
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better

      

The Art of Pepper Selection

Choosing the right bell peppers is essential for this dish. I recommend selecting large, firm peppers to ensure they hold their shape during baking. Look for peppers with smooth skin and vibrant color, as this indicates freshness. If you're feeling adventurous, mix different colors like red, yellow, and green to create a stunning visual presentation on your table.

When cutting the tops off the peppers, be sure to slice just enough to create a bowl-like structure without cutting too deep. This helps retain the filling while allowing for even cooking. If you find your peppers are uneven at the base and tend to wobble, carefully trim a small slice off the bottom to stabilize them, ensuring they stand tall in the baking dish.

Filling Variations

One of the best aspects of stuffed bell peppers is their versatility. You can easily swap out the ground beef or turkey with plant-based alternatives or even cooked quinoa for a vegetarian option. If you're in the mood for something bolder, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or chili powder to the filling, which can enhance the flavor profile significantly.

Adding vegetables to the filling, such as diced zucchini or corn, not only boosts nutrition but also adds a delightful texture contrast. Just be sure to sauté these additional ingredients along with the onions and garlic to cook off any excess moisture, preventing a soggy filling.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience:

Stuffed Bell Peppers Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 cup cooked rice
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a hearty and delicious meal for your family!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious stuffed pepper experience:

Prepare Peppers

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

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions and garlic until soft. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and heat for about 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling into each bell pepper until they are packed full. If desired, sprinkle cheese on the top of each stuffed pepper.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and add 1/4 cup of water to the bottom of the dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling by adding vegetables like corn, beans, or even quinoa for a healthier option.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover stuffed peppers store wonderfully in the refrigerator. Just place them in an airtight container, and they’ll last up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This gentle reheating method helps maintain the texture of the peppers and filling without drying them out.

If you're looking to make these stuffed peppers ahead of time, consider assembling them without baking. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly with foil. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking—wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers can be a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with a simple green salad or some crusty bread elevates the dining experience. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top just before serving adds a pleasant tang that complements the richness of the filling beautifully.

For a fun twist, you can also serve the stuffed peppers sliced in half and arranged on a bed of sautéed spinach or quinoa. This not only enhances presentation but also provides a delightful mix of flavors and textures with every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.

→ How can I make these vegetarian?

Replace the meat with a combination of black beans, corn, and quinoa for a delicious vegetarian filling.

→ Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just stuff the peppers before baking.

→ What sides pair well with stuffed peppers?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complement the stuffed peppers nicely.