Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It combines savory ground beef with fluffy brown rice, all nestled in tender bell peppers. The best part? They can be customized to fit any dietary preference and are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. You’ll love how simple and delicious they are!

These stuffed peppers are not only hearty but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or bringing them to a potluck, they always impress. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty, making them a fantastic meal prep option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike adore these stuffed peppers—perfect for picky eaters!
• Customizable: Use your favorite protein or go vegetarian; this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.
• Make ahead: Prep them earlier in the day or even freeze them for a quick meal later.
• Full of flavor: The combination of spices and cheese makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe uses wholesome and simple items that you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Stuffing

• 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)

For the Peppers

• 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)
• 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Variations

One of the greatest things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter version.
• Add some heat: Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the meat with black beans, lentils, or quinoa for a filling plant-based option.
• Mix up the cheese: Try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor twist.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your peppers cook evenly and come out perfectly tender.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in 1 diced onion and sauté until it softens—this typically takes about 5 minutes. Next, stir in 2-3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step brings out their natural sweetness and sets a flavorful base for your filling.

Step 3: Cook the Meat Mixture

Now it’s time to add 1 pound of lean ground beef into the pan. Break it apart with your wooden spoon as it cooks; this usually takes about 5-6 minutes until it’s no longer pink. Once cooked through, mix in 1½ cups of cooked brown rice, one can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces), tomato paste, oregano, and paprika. Cook everything together until slightly reduced—about 4-5 minutes. Don’t forget to season with kosher salt and pepper!

Step 4: Prepare the Peppers

While your filling is cooking, grab those beautiful bell peppers! Slice off the tops and remove the cores so they’re ready for stuffing. Place them cut side up in a baking dish.

Step 5: Fill & Bake

Stuff each pepper generously with your beef mixture—don’t be shy! Once filled, bake them in your preheated oven until they’re mostly tender—this should take around 10-12 minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

Sprinkle about 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over each stuffed pepper. Return them to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for that finishing touch!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful stuffed peppers—they’re sure to become a staple in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Creating a delicious batch of stuffed bell peppers is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavors of your dish significantly. When possible, opt for in-season bell peppers and fresh garlic for a vibrant taste.

• Customize the filling: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for your favorite protein or even go fully vegetarian. Quinoa or lentils make fantastic alternatives that add both flavor and nutrition.

• Don’t overstuff: While it can be tempting to pack the filling in tightly, leaving a little space at the top allows the cheese to melt beautifully and prevents overflow while baking.

• Check pepper tenderness: Depending on the size of your peppers, baking times may vary. Make sure to check for tenderness before adding the cheese to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

• Make them ahead: Stuffed peppers freeze well! Prepare them in advance, then simply pop them into the oven when you’re ready for a quick meal. Just adjust cooking times if they are frozen.

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Serving your stuffed bell peppers can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds a refreshing touch and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Lime wedges: Serving with lime wedges gives an option for a zesty kick that brightens up each bite.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado on the side not only looks appealing but also adds richness to your meal.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances out the hearty stuffed peppers.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and herbs makes for a vibrant side that complements the flavors of the stuffed peppers.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs and vegetables is a nutritious pairing that adds texture without overpowering the main dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from your stuffed peppers.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll elevate your easy stuffed bell peppers recipe into a meal that everyone will love. Enjoy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your stuffed peppers, it’s best to do so before baking.
• Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen stuffed peppers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• For refrigerated leftovers, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I make this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground beef for a mixture of beans, lentils, or your favorite plant-based protein. You can also add more vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to cook the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

The total cook time for this recipe is about 40 minutes: 10 minutes of preparation and around 30 minutes of baking time.

What can I serve with stuffed bell peppers?

Stuffed bell peppers pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. You could also serve them with quinoa or a grain of your choice for a heartier meal.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the peppers and bake them when you’re ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding family and friends, these stuffed peppers are sure to delight everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your fillings! Happy cooking!