Print

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

4.7 from 110 reviews

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe features vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of lean ground beef, brown rice, and tomatoes, baked with cheese melting on top. It’s an effortless and delicious meal that combines wholesome ingredients and simple cooking techniques for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Stuffed Bell Peppers

  • 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)

Filling

  • 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 Medium Onion (diced)
  • 23 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
  • Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)

Topping and Garnish

  • 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
  • Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the prepared bell peppers cut side up in a baking dish or rimmed tray to get ready for stuffing.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it is no longer pink and fully cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes.
  4. Add Filling Ingredients: Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Allow the mixture to cook until the sauce slightly reduces, about 4-5 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Stuff Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each prepared bell pepper, filling them generously.
  6. Bake Peppers: Bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the peppers are mostly tender.
  7. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the baking dish, sprinkle the shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over the tops of the stuffed peppers, then return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the finished stuffed peppers with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious home-cooked meal!

Notes

  • Using brown rice adds fiber and nutrition—feel free to substitute with cooked quinoa or white rice if preferred.
  • Adjust the paprika quantity based on your spice preference or substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
  • To make this recipe vegetarian, replace ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
  • Ensure bell peppers are evenly sized for consistent cooking results.
  • This recipe can be prepared ahead by assembling stuffed peppers and refrigerating before baking.

Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, ground beef recipe, baked stuffed peppers, healthy family dinner, easy stuffed peppers