Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef 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, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious bell peppers filled with savory ground beef, rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-24T13:27:40.865Z

This comforting dish brings together the flavors of spicy ground beef and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in a tender bell pepper.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a family dinner
Customizable with your favorite spices and ingredients
A colorful and nutritious meal in one package

      

A Flavorful Combination

Ground beef stuffed peppers offer a delightful fusion of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. The sweetness of the bell peppers perfectly complements the savory filling, creating an irresistible dish that will appeal to everyone at the dinner table. Each bite bursts with the richness of ground beef, the heartiness of rice, and the freshness of tomatoes, making it a well-rounded meal.

This dish not only highlights the versatility of bell peppers but also presents an opportunity to incorporate a variety of ingredients. You can easily adapt the filling to suit your family's preferences or dietary needs by substituting ground turkey, quinoa, or even beans for a vegetarian option. The options are endless!

Meal Prep and Storage

Ground beef stuffed peppers are an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply stuff the peppers and bake them for a quick and delicious dinner. This is a great way to save time during busy weekdays while still enjoying a homemade meal.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. These stuffed peppers also freeze well, making them a perfect option for batch cooking. Just wrap them individually in foil or place them in freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers can be served as a standalone dish, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside a fresh garden salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can also add a nice finishing touch, elevating the dish's presentation and flavor.

For a little extra kick, try adding hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. This will infuse the dish with a spicy twist that can excite your taste buds. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, ground beef stuffed peppers are sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

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

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

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

Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted.

Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

Ground beef stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are vital for maintaining healthy skin and a robust immune system. The addition of ground beef provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health, while rice contributes carbohydrates for energy.

By including a variety of vegetables in the filling, you can enhance the nutritional profile even further. Adding ingredients like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can boost the fiber content and provide additional vitamins and minerals, making this dish as healthy as it is hearty.

Customizing Your Stuffed Peppers

One of the best aspects of ground beef stuffed peppers is their adaptability. You can easily switch out the spices and seasonings to match your personal taste. If you're a fan of Mexican flavors, consider adding cumin, chili powder, and black beans to the filling for a zesty twist.

You can also experiment with different cheeses, like feta or pepper jack, to change the flavor profile. Mixing in cooked vegetables or grains, such as corn or quinoa, can add texture and additional nutrition, making each batch of stuffed peppers uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, freeze them before baking for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

They pair well with a side salad or some crusty bread.