There's something wonderfully comforting about Stuffed Bell Peppers that transforms simple ingredients into a complete, satisfying meal that brings the whole family together around the dinner table. This timeless dish has been a kitchen staple for generations, combining tender bell peppers with hearty filling that creates both nutrition and nostalgia in every bite.
My kids love how each pepper becomes its own individual serving, like having their own special dinner package, while I appreciate how this recipe stretches ingredients into a meal that feeds everyone well. With endless possibilities for customization and make-ahead convenience, these Stuffed Bell Peppers have become our go-to solution for busy weeknights when we need something wholesome, delicious, and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
This Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort food satisfaction and nutritional value that busy families desperately need. My husband says these taste exactly like his grandmother's version, and I love how they incorporate vegetables, protein, and grains all in one convenient package.
Unlike complicated casseroles that require multiple dishes, this recipe for stuffed bell peppers creates individual servings that make portion control easy while satisfying everyone's appetite. The combination of tender peppers and flavorful filling makes even picky eaters excited about eating their vegetables. Plus, these work beautifully for meal prep and family dinner planning since they can be assembled ahead and baked when needed.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- What You'll Need
- How to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Aliana's Top Tip
- Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- What to Serve With Stuffed Bell Peppers
- FAQs About Stuffed Bell Peppers
- More Recipes You'll Love
- Related
- Pairing
- More DINNER
What You'll Need
These simple ingredients come together to create a hearty, well-balanced meal that delivers both comfort and nutrition. Most of these items are pantry staples or easily found ingredients that make this recipe accessible for any home cook.
Main Ingredients
- 6 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut and seeds removed
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter option)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Assembly
- 1 cup beef broth
- Additional cheese for topping
- Fresh parsley for garnish
This easy stuffed bell peppers approach is super easy - full steps are in the recipe card.
How to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prepare the Peppers
Cut tops off bell peppers and remove all seeds and membranes. If needed, trim a small slice from the bottom so peppers stand upright, being careful not to cut through.
Cook the Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
Build the Mixture
Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, half the cheese, and all seasonings. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and flavors combine.
Q: Can I make stuffed bell peppers ahead of time? A: Yes! Assemble them completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Stuff and Arrange
Fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture, packing gently but not too tightly. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and pour broth around the bottom.
Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes until peppers are tender. Remove foil, top with remaining cheese, and bake 5 more minutes until melted.
Aliana's Top Tip
The secret to perfect results is not overstuffing the peppers and choosing peppers that are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
My mom taught me to partially cook the rice beforehand rather than using raw rice, which ensures the filling cooks through properly without overcooking the peppers.
Also, the broth in the bottom of the pan creates steam that helps the peppers cook evenly while keeping them from drying out.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
For healthy stuffed bell peppers, substitute ground turkey or lean ground beef and use brown rice or cauliflower rice. You can create stuffed bell peppers ground beef variations with different seasonings like Mexican spices or Italian herbs. For stuffed green peppers specifically, choose firm, bright green peppers that will hold their shape well during cooking. This also works as one of those versatile bell pepper recipes that adapts to whatever protein and grains you have available.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftover stuffed bell peppers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Reheat individual peppers in the microwave or warm multiple servings covered in a 350°F oven until heated through. These also freeze well for up to 3 months when wrapped individually.
Follow Aliana on Pinterest →What to Serve With Stuffed Bell Peppers
These work beautifully as a complete meal on their own, but pair nicely with a simple green salad or crusty bread for heartier appetites. For summer dinner occasions, serve alongside corn on the cob or fresh tomato salad. The peppers also complement roasted vegetables or garlic bread when you want to create a more elaborate spread.
FAQs About Stuffed Bell Peppers
What color peppers work best?
Any color works, but red, yellow, and orange are sweeter while green peppers have more bite and hold their shape well.
Can I use uncooked rice?
It's better to use cooked rice to ensure even cooking. Raw rice may not cook through properly in the time it takes to cook the peppers.
Can I make these in the Instant Pot?
Yes! This adapts well to instant pot recipes - cook on high pressure for 15 minutes with natural release.
How do I prevent peppers from falling over?
Choose peppers with flat bottoms or trim a thin slice from the bottom, and use a baking dish that fits them snugly.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you're exploring more classic stuffed peppers recipe variations, you'll love my stuffed zucchini boats that use similar techniques with different vegetables. For those interested in other peppers recipes, try my Mexican-style stuffed poblanos that bring bold flavors with similar comfort. When you want to expand your stuffed vegetable repertoire, my stuffed tomatoes offer another family-friendly option that works beautifully for pot recipes and family Dinner planning.
Made it your way? I'd love to see it! Tag @AlianaRecipes on Pinterest and show off your delicious version.
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe:
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