Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Category: Dinner

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Introduction

Few dishes capture homestyle comfort quite like Stuffed Bell Peppers. These colorful, oven-baked peppers are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese — a timeless dinner that’s hearty, wholesome, and satisfying in every bite.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or something impressive enough for guests, stuffed peppers strike the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. The combination of juicy peppers and rich, meaty filling creates a complete dinner in one bite — protein, veggies, grains, and that comforting baked goodness all in one dish.

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The Secret to Perfect Stuffed Peppers

The secret behind great stuffed peppers lies in balancing moisture and texture. Too much sauce can make the filling soggy, while undercooked rice or dry beef ruins the soft, comforting bite we all love.

Cooking the filling in advance — sautéing the beef with onions, garlic, and tomato sauce — ensures the flavors are layered and rich before baking. Pre-baking or parboiling the peppers for a few minutes helps them soften slightly, so they come out tender but not mushy after baking.

Finally, a sprinkle of cheese before baking locks in flavor and creates that irresistible golden, bubbly crust on top.

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Ingredients

For the Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 for best flavor)

• 1 cup cooked white rice (or brown rice)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For Topping:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Extra parsley or basil, for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Brush the inside lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Pro Tip: To ensure even cooking, choose peppers that can stand upright in your baking dish.

Place peppers cut-side up in a baking dish and pre-bake for 10 minutes to slightly soften them. Remove and set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.

Add cooked rice and stir to combine, then remove from heat. Mix in ½ cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley.

The mixture should be rich, saucy, and cohesive — not too wet, not too dry.

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Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling evenly into each prepared pepper, pressing gently to pack it in. Top each pepper with a spoonful of tomato sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.

Place the peppers upright in the baking dish. If needed, pour a little water (about ¼ cup) into the bottom of the dish to help keep the peppers tender as they bake.

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Step 4: Bake the Peppers

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Pro Tip: For extra caramelization, broil the peppers on high for 2–3 minutes at the end.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh pop of color.

Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner.

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Flavor Variations

• Mexican-Inspired: Add black beans, corn, and chili powder. Top with cheddar cheese and serve with salsa.

• Italian Style: Use Italian sausage instead of beef, and stir in chopped spinach or basil.

• Vegetarian: Substitute beef with lentils, quinoa, or crumbled tofu for a hearty plant-based version.

• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in ricotta or cream cheese for a creamier texture.

• Low-Carb: Skip the rice and replace with riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly meal.

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Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Wrap individual stuffed peppers in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Thaw overnight and warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, or microwave until hot.

• Meal Prep Tip: Make the filling a day ahead and assemble when ready to bake.

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Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

1. Using raw peppers without pre-baking – They’ll stay too firm; always pre-bake or parboil.

2. Watery filling – Drain beef well and avoid adding too much sauce.

3. Undercooked rice – Always use cooked rice before mixing with the beef.

4. Skipping seasoning – Taste and adjust the filling before stuffing.

5. Overbaking – Bake until peppers are tender but still hold their shape.

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Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced texture: Tender peppers with hearty, flavorful filling.

• Make-ahead friendly: Great for meal prep and freezer storage.

• Customizable: Works with beef, turkey, sausage, or vegetarian swaps.

• Comforting & nutritious: A wholesome meal loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins.

• Beautiful presentation: Colorful peppers make this dish dinner-party worthy.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair these Stuffed Bell Peppers with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Garlic butter dinner rolls

• Roasted potatoes or mashed cauliflower

• A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon

They also reheat beautifully for lunch the next day — making them perfect for weekly meal prep.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving: 1 Stuffed Pepper)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 27g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fat: 22g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 720mg

(Values are approximate and vary depending on ingredients and cheese type.)

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Final Thoughts

Stuffed Bell Peppers are the perfect combination of comfort and simplicity. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you get a dinner that feels homemade, hearty, and special — even on busy weeknights.

Each bite brings together the sweetness of baked peppers, the richness of savory beef, and the creaminess of melted cheese. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds you why home-cooked meals are always worth it.

Make it once, and it’ll become a family favorite you’ll return to again and again.