Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Soulful Dishes

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers for dinner! They are not only colorful and inviting but also incredibly satisfying. For me, there's something special about the combination of seasoned beef, rice, and spices all packed into a tender bell pepper. Every bite bursts with delicious flavor, making it a hit at the dinner table. Plus, they are easy to customize with whatever I have on hand, whether it’s extra veggies or different spices. It's a meal that everyone enjoys and always leaves me feeling fulfilled!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:17:35.369Z

When I first made Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily the flavors blended together. Each pepper was bursting with rich, savory goodness, and I learned that browning the beef properly really brings out its depth. I also discovered that letting the filling cool slightly before stuffing the peppers makes it easier to handle.

One time, I experimented by adding some chopped spinach to the filling, which not only enhanced the flavor but also made the dish more colorful. I encourage you to get creative with your fillings—the possibilities are endless!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant presentation that brightens up any dinner table
Hearty filling combining beef, rice, and spices
Flexible recipe that allows for ingredient swaps and additions

Ingredient Insights

The bell peppers serve as both a vessel and a flavor enhancer in this dish. Choosing a mix of colors not only makes the plate visually appealing but also slightly varies the sweetness of each pepper. Red, yellow, and orange peppers are naturally sweeter, while green peppers provide a more robust, slightly bitter flavor. This can influence the overall taste of the stuffed peppers, so consider your preference!

When selecting ground beef, aim for a lean blend, such as 85% lean. This strikes a balance between flavor and fat content, ensuring your filling is moist without being overly greasy. For a twist, feel free to swap in ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adjust your seasoning accordingly to maintain the flavor depth.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

While cooking the filling, sautéing the onions until they are translucent is crucial; this step enhances their sweetness and provides a nice base flavor. Make sure not to rush this process—about 5 minutes over medium heat should yield the desired effect. Adding the garlic after the onions ensures it doesn’t burn and becomes fragrant, enriching the beef's taste.

When you stuff the peppers, pack the mixture tightly to avoid having gaps that may lead to uneven cooking. Positioning the peppers upright in a baking dish stabilizes them during the cooking process. If your peppers are wobbly, consider trimming a small slice off the bottom to create a flat surface, ensuring they remain upright while baking.

Serving and Storage Tips

These stuffed peppers pair well with a simple side salad or crusty bread to balance out the meal. Topping with fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds a pop of freshness. Consider drizzling a little balsamic reduction over the top before serving for added flavor complexity. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also provide a delightful creaminess.

If you have leftovers, the stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze beautifully; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before storing. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until heated through, to restore their original texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious stuffed bell peppers.

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Once you have all your ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Ground Beef 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. Set them aside.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the beef mixture. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If using, sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some spices such as cumin or paprika to the beef mixture. You can also use quinoa or cauliflower rice in place of regular rice for a healthier twist.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to experiment with the filling by incorporating other ingredients like black beans for extra protein and fiber or corn for sweetness and texture. You can also add some chopped fresh spinach or kale for a healthier twist. Just ensure that any added ingredients are pre-cooked or will require similar cooking times to the ground beef, so everything comes together evenly.

For a spicy kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. Additionally, if you prefer a more Mediterranean flavor, substitute the Italian seasoning with a mix of cumin, paprika, and oregano. This will give the dish a whole new dimension that’s still pleasing to the palate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your peppers are still too crunchy after the initial baking time, cover them with foil and return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will give them more time to soften without burning the tops. Keep an eye on them so that they don’t fall apart while cooking.

Another common issue is filling overflow. To prevent this, underfill the peppers slightly, allowing room for bubbling during baking. Additionally, if liquid from the filling seeps out during cooking and causes a mess, try reducing the amount of liquid ingredients like tomatoes, or consider draining them more thoroughly before mixing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers up to a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Unbaked stuffed peppers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.