Stuffed Bell Peppers are a timeless family favorite that combines tender bell peppers with a hearty, flavorful filling. This easy version brings all the classic taste without complicated steps — making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
🧄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients: Everyday pantry staples come together beautifully.
One-dish meal: Protein, veggies, and grains in one delicious package.
Customizable: Use ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian filling.
Colorful and appealing: Great for serving guests or family meals.
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make 6 stuffed bell peppers:
6 medium bell peppers (any color – red, yellow, green, or orange)
1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano and basil)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
1 tbsp olive oil
🔪 Instructions
- Prepare the Bell Peppers
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
Rinse them and place in a large pot of boiling water for about 3–4 minutes to soften slightly.
Remove and drain upside down on paper towels.
- Cook the Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain any excess fat.
Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Stuff the Peppers
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange peppers upright in a baking dish.
Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each pepper.
Top with a spoonful of tomato sauce and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve your stuffed bell peppers with:
A side salad or coleslaw
Garlic bread or roasted potatoes
A drizzle of extra tomato sauce for added flavor
🌿 Tips and Variations
Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or quinoa.
Add veggies: Mix in corn, diced zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Cheesy twist: Stir some shredded cheese directly into the filling before baking.
Make-ahead: Assemble the peppers up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Cool completely, wrap each pepper tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
❤️ Final Thoughts
These Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are hearty, wholesome, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish brings comfort and nutrition together in every bite.
Tags: #StuffedPeppers #EasyDinner #ComfortFood #HealthyMeals #FamilyRecipes
Category: Dinner, Comfort Food, One-Pot Meals
