Name: Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil); 1 Medium Onion (diced); 2-3 Garlic Cloves (minced); 1 pound Lean Ground Beef; 1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice; 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can); 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste; 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano; 2 teaspoons Paprika (see notes); Kosher salt and pepper (to taste); 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed); 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese

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Get ready for a dinner that’s beautifully vibrant, filling, and sure to win over any crowd: the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe! Imagine crisp bell peppers overflowing with a savory mixture of ground beef, aromatic veggies, hearty brown rice, and a luscious cheese topping, all baked to tender perfection. Each bite is equal parts comfort and celebration, bursting with flavor and color on your plate. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just craving a cozy meal with flair, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Every component adds an important layer of taste or texture, coming together for a dish that feels both homemade and a little bit special.

Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil): Provides a flavorful base for sautéing and keeps everything rich but light.
Onion: Brings natural sweetness and aromatic depth to the filling.
Garlic Cloves: A must for a boost of savory flavor that infuses the whole dish.
Lean Ground Beef: Adds hearty protein and a satisfying texture to balance the vegetables.
Cooked Brown Rice: Keeps the filling wholesome and adds a subtle chewiness; use leftover rice to save time!
Diced Tomatoes (one can): Lends moisture, tanginess, and a hint of sweetness to tie everything together.
Tomato Paste: Intensifies the savory tomato flavors for extra richness.
Dried Oregano: Gives a Mediterranean punch that beautifully complements the beef and tomatoes.
Paprika: Adds gentle warmth and a pop of color; try smoked paprika for a twist.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect balance.
Large Bell Peppers: The show-stopping edible vessels—choose a variety of colors for the prettiest presentation!
Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese: Melts into a golden, gooey topping no one can resist.
Freshly chopped parsley: Delivers a burst of freshness and gorgeous green color at the end.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375 F. Carefully slice the tops off your large bell peppers and remove the cores and seeds. Arrange the peppers cut-side up in a baking dish or rimmed tray. This keeps them upright for easy stuffing and ensures a gentle pre-roast while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally—about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, just until fragrant. This builds a delicious base for the whole dish.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add your lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and beginning to get some browned bits, usually about 5-6 minutes. Browning the meat well deepens the flavor of your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe.

Step 4: Add Rice, Tomatoes, and Spices

Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Mix everything well. Let the mixture simmer for 4-5 minutes so it can thicken and all the flavors can meld together. Taste and add kosher salt and pepper to round it all out.

Step 5: Fill and Bake the Peppers

Spoon the sizzling beef and rice mixture generously into each prepared bell pepper. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. This lets the peppers soften and the flavors blend, while still keeping a touch of bite in the peppers.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over the stuffed peppers. Slide the dish back in the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Just before serving, shower your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe with a handful of freshly chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Garnishes

For a restaurant-worthy finish, top each pepper with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. You could also add extra cracked black pepper, a dusting of smoked paprika, or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy touch. A few thinly sliced green onions can add both color and a delightful, mild bite.

Side Dishes

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe pairs well with a simple leafy salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of steamed green beans for added crunch. If you want a heartier meal, serve your peppers alongside roasted potatoes, warm crusty bread, or even a tangy cucumber yogurt salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the stuffed peppers on a platter for a stunning family-style spread, or plate each pepper individually with a sprinkle of parsley on a bed of mixed greens. For a fun twist, try slicing the peppers in half after baking and arranging the halves in a “fan” on each plate. They’re a colorful centerpiece that turns any weeknight into something festive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe keeps brilliantly! Allow the peppers to cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days, making lunch prep a breeze.

Freezing

For future busy nights, freeze cooled stuffed peppers in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking. The Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe can be frozen for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the peppers loosely with foil and warm in a 350 F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot throughout. You can also microwave individual portions in a pinch, but covering them with a damp paper towel helps retain moisture and keeps that beautiful texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of ground meat instead of beef?

Absolutely! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground “meat” if you prefer. Each brings its own twist while keeping the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe hearty and delicious.

What’s the best way to keep the peppers from getting mushy?

Don’t overbake them! The times in this recipe offer a perfect soft-but-still-firm bite. If you like a crisper texture, you can shave a few minutes off the initial bake time before adding the cheese.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes! Make the beef and rice mixture up to a day ahead—store it covered in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply stuff and bake the peppers as directed for a speedy, stress-free dinner.

Do I have to use brown rice, or can I swap in another grain?

You can definitely substitute with quinoa, white rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option. The Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is flexible enough to accommodate whatever you have on hand!

How do I choose the best bell peppers?

Look for peppers that are firm, glossy, and heavy for their size. Brightly colored peppers not only look gorgeous but also have a slightly sweeter taste, perfect for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy, comforting, and seriously satisfying, give this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe a try. Each pepper packs so much flavor and fun into every bite. I can’t wait for you to taste how effortlessly impressive homemade stuffed peppers can be!

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 9 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 7 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A flavorful and easy-to-make Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe that combines ground beef, rice, and a variety of seasonings, topped with melted cheese for a deliciously comforting meal.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and place the bell peppers cut side up in a baking dish.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large pan, sauté diced onion in olive oil until soft, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Cook Beef Mixture: Add ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and paprika.
Season and Simmer: Season with salt and pepper, then cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stuff Peppers: Fill each pepper with the beef mixture and bake until peppers are mostly tender.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the peppers and bake until melted. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Ensure the bell peppers are evenly cooked by checking for tenderness before serving.

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