Description
These Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful, hearty, and comforting dinner classic. Each pepper is filled with a flavorful blend of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and melted cheese — baked to perfection for a wholesome, family-friendly meal that’s as easy as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
For the filling:
2 tbsp (30 ml) olive or avocado oil
1 medium onion, diced
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
1½ cups (285 g) cooked brown rice
1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes
1 tbsp (15 g) tomato paste
1 tsp (1 g) dried oregano
2 tsp (4 g) paprika
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
For the peppers:
7 large bell peppers, tops and cores removed
1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar jack cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Prep the Peppers:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and set them upright in a baking dish.Cook the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.Add the Beef and Seasoning:
Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.Mix in Rice and Tomatoes:
Add cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well and let simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.Stuff the Peppers:
Spoon the filling evenly into each bell pepper, pressing gently to pack the mixture.Bake and Melt the Cheese:
Bake uncovered for 10–12 minutes, then top each pepper with shredded cheese. Bake another 5–7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
Red or yellow peppers give a sweeter flavor; green peppers are more savory.
Pre-cook rice ahead of time to save prep minutes.
Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based option for a lighter version.
Add diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
These peppers freeze beautifully for easy future meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American