Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers – Easy, Hearty & Healthy Dinner
These Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are a wholesome and delicious meal your whole family will love! Made with sweet bell peppers stuffed with seasoned ground beef, rice, veggies, and melty cheese, they’re a perfect comfort food dinner that’s also nutrient-rich.
Whether you're craving a cozy, weeknight-friendly meal or looking to use up extra peppers, this easy stuffed peppers recipe is a winner. It's naturally gluten-free, customizable, and great for meal prep or freezer-friendly dinners.
🌶️ Ingredients:
For the Peppers:
4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
For the Filling:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
1 cup cooked white or brown rice
1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
For Topping:
1/2 cup shredded cheese
Fresh parsley or chopped green onions (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep Peppers:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds. Boil peppers for 5 minutes or microwave them for 2–3 minutes to soften slightly (optional but recommended).
2. Make the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add ground meat, cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in cooked rice, tomatoes, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheese and remove from heat.
3. Stuff the Peppers:
Place peppers upright in a baking dish.
Fill each pepper with the prepared mixture.
Top with extra shredded cheese.
4. Bake:
Add 1/4 inch of water to the bottom of the baking dish (to keep peppers moist).
Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve hot.
💡 Variations:
Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Add black beans or corn for a Tex-Mex twist.
Make vegetarian by swapping meat for lentils or plant-based crumbles.
💡 Tips: Use peeled, cooked, chilled shrimp for convenience. Add avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. Keeps well for 1–2 days in the fridge (perfect for meal prep!).