Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers for dinner! This dish not only brings a wave of robust flavors, but it also allows me to use fresh ingredients and customize it to my family's taste. The combination of savory ground beef, fragrant herbs, and cooked rice stuffed into vibrant bell peppers creates a dish that's not only visually appealing but also nutritious. Plus, these hearty stuffed peppers are perfect for meal prep and leftovers, ensuring we can enjoy a delicious meal on busy days.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-27T15:09:35.671Z

When I first tried making stuffed peppers, I was surprised at how easy it was to create a dish that was both comforting and packed with flavor. By using fresh herbs and spices, I found that the ground beef mixes perfectly with the rice, resulting in a tasty filling. The peppers themselves add a crunchy and slightly sweet element, making each bite a delight.

One trick I've learned is to parboil the peppers for a few minutes before stuffing them. This helps to soften them up, ensuring they cook evenly and soak up all the flavors during baking. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for any meal
Customizable with different vegetables and spices
A colorful addition to your dinner table

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh bell peppers not only adds vibrant color to your dish, but their sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory filling of ground beef and rice. When selecting your peppers, look for ones that are firm and glossy, which indicates freshness. You can use any color, but red, yellow, and orange tend to be sweeter compared to green ones. If you want to experiment, consider adding different colors for visual appeal and flavor variation.

The ground beef in this recipe serves as the primary protein source, but feel free to substitute it with lean ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options like lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian twist. If you use a different protein, adjust the cooking time in the skillet to ensure it is fully cooked. Incorporating various herbs or spices can enhance the filling's flavor profile, so don't hesitate to customize it based on your family's preferences.

Technique Tips

When preparing the peppers, parboiling them for a few minutes softens their texture, allowing for easier digestion and a more pleasant bite. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but be prepared for a crunchier pepper. Just ensure that they’re roasted long enough in the oven to allow the flavors to meld beautifully with the filling, about 35-40 minutes total baking time should suffice for thorough cooking.

For the cheese topping, I recommend using a combination of mozzarella for stretchiness and Parmesan for a salty finish. If you prefer a non-dairy option, vegan cheese can also work well—just check its melting properties to ensure a delightful texture. Finally, make sure to let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the filling settle and makes for easier serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your ground beef and rice stuffed peppers:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prepare all ingredients beforehand for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Optionally, you can parboil the peppers for about 5 minutes to soften them.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, cook the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper with the beef and rice mixture until they are packed. If using, top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Let the peppers cool slightly before serving for easier handling.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with other ingredients, such as black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.

Making Ahead and Freezing

These Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the filling a day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Simply store it in the fridge until you're ready to stuff the peppers. This way, your weeknight dinner will be a breeze, making it easy to enjoy a home-cooked meal even on the busiest days.

If you want to freeze the stuffed peppers, assemble them without baking, then place them in an airtight container or freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for later use. To cook from frozen, bake at 375°F for about 45-55 minutes, covered with foil, then remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to develop a golden crust.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh feta cheese on top for added creaminess. For a bit of a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños into the filling mixture or serving alongside your favorite hot sauce.

If you're looking for a way to incorporate more vegetables, feel free to mix in chopped spinach or zucchini into the beef filling. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds interesting textures that complement the dish beautifully. Since they are already colorful, you can also serve these stuffed peppers with a bright salsa or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for added flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well, too.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Yes! You can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Just wrap them tightly and store them for up to 3 months.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for extra nutrients and flavor.