Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

The vibrant colors of stuffed bell peppers with rice and ground beef dance on your plate like a festive celebration. Imagine sinking your fork into those tender peppers, each bite bursting with flavor and warmth; it’s like a hug for your taste buds.

Growing up, my grandmother made these stuffed delights for family gatherings. The aroma wafting through the house was so intoxicating that even the neighbors would start showing up at our doorstep. These peppers are perfect for any occasion—be it a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to impress guests.

I remember once serving these at a potluck; you wouldn’t believe the compliments they received!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bell Peppers: Choose firm, brightly colored bell peppers for the best visual appeal and sweetness.
• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Cooked Rice: Leftover rice works perfectly here; just ensure it’s fluffy and not clumpy.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds depth; I recommend sweet onions for extra flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma; feel free to use more if you’re a garlic lover!
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add moisture and tang; opt for seasoned varieties if you like extra flavor.
• Cheese (optional): Shredded cheese on top creates a gooey finish that everyone loves; choose your favorite type!
• Herbs and Spices: A mix of Italian herbs elevates the flavor profile; don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds carefully.

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Add in chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.

Stir in cooked rice along with diced tomatoes and seasonings. Mix thoroughly until everything is combined nicely—about 3-5 minutes should do.

Stuff each pepper generously with the beef-rice mixture. Arrange them upright in the prepared baking dish so they don’t topple over during baking.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes until heated through. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last 5 minutes of cooking time.

Remove from oven carefully (it’s hot!), let cool slightly before serving so you don’t burn your tongue—it’s tempting!

These stuffed bell peppers are more than just a meal—they’re an experience waiting to happen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the rice and browning the ground beef simultaneously. While those are cooking, prepare your bell peppers for stuffing. This ensures everything is ready to assemble at once.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based alternative. Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a flavor boost while customizing your stuffed bell peppers.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until heated through for a convenient meal.

Sharing this recipe takes me back to family gatherings where everyone would compete over who made the best stuffed bell peppers. Ah, memories of friendly rivalries and laughter around the dinner table!

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat for stuffed bell peppers with rice and ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats work wonderfully as alternatives.

What kind of rice is best to use for stuffed bell peppers?

Long-grain white rice or brown rice works best, but feel free to experiment with quinoa too!

How long do I need to bake stuffed bell peppers?

Bake them at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes, until the peppers are tender and filling is hot.

Print

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Ground Beef

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Ground Beef are a vibrant, comforting dish filled with savory goodness. Perfect for family meals or gatherings, this recipe is simple yet satisfying.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• Optional: shredded cheese and Italian herbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
3. In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat; add onions and garlic until translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice and diced tomatoes; combine well.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture and place them upright in the baking dish.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Add cheese during the last 5 minutes if desired.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: - Substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based alternatives for variations. - Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for extra flavor.