Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes

When I first made Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers, I was surprised at how satisfying this dish turned out to be. The savory filling snugly packed within the tender peppers creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; I often switch up the seasonings and garnishes according to what I have on hand, ensuring that every batch feels unique and special.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T04:57:36.073Z

I still remember the first time I tried making stuffed peppers. They looked so vibrant and delicious! After experimenting with various fillings, I settled on the combination of ground beef, rice, and spices, which adds comforting flavors to this classic dish. Each bite delivers a satisfying punch, and the colors make it a feast for the eyes.

One tip I found helpful is pre-cooking the rice just a little. It ensures that each pepper is filled to the brim with tender goodness without risking overcooked peppers. I love serving these with a sprinkle of fresh herbs to elevate the flavors—simple yet so rewarding!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful presentation that brightens up your dinner table
Hearty filling that keeps you satisfied and energized
A versatile dish that allows for endless customization

Mastering the Peppers

Choosing the right bell peppers is crucial for this dish. When selecting your peppers, look for ones that feel firm and have vibrant colors, as they'll not only taste better, but also present beautifully on your plate. Cut the tops off carefully to create a generous opening for stuffing. If your peppers don’t stand upright, slice a small amount off the bottom to stabilize them in the baking dish. This small adjustment will keep the tasty filling secure while baking.

The cooking time for the stuffed peppers can vary based on their size and the oven’s performance. I usually suggest checking the peppers after the initial baking time of 25 minutes. They should be tender but still hold their shape. If you find them a bit too firm, return them to the oven uncovered for an extra 5 to 10 minutes until they soften and begin to show slight blistering on their skin.

Flavor Enhancements

While I love the classic combination of ground beef and rice, don’t hesitate to experiment with the filling! For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian twist. Adding in some chopped mushrooms or zucchini can also enhance the texture while sneaking in extra veggies. If you’re looking for a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the cooking process.

Herbs and spices truly elevate the flavors in this dish. Consider mixing in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving for a pop of freshness. Alternatively, a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the taste, balancing the richness of the beef. For a smoky flavor, smoked paprika is a fantastic substitution for regular paprika, adding depth and complexity to the overall profile.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Peppers:

4 large bell peppers
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Feel free to modify the ingredient list according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each prepared bell pepper, packing them tightly. If desired, top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the tops to brown lightly.

Serve

Let the peppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your stuffed peppers warm!

This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for later meals!

Pro Tips

Try adding other vegetables to the filling for extra nutrition, such as corn or zucchini. You can also use turkey or tofu in place of beef for a different flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about stuffed peppers is how well they lend themselves to meal prepping. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just stuff the peppers right before baking to maintain their texture. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the stuffed peppers, cover them in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before popping them in the oven — this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If you're making a larger batch, consider freezing leftovers. Simply let the baked stuffed peppers cool completely, then wrap each in plastic wrap and store them in freezer-safe bags. They can be stored frozen for up to three months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, or until heated through, adding a few extra minutes if they appear chilly in the center.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your stuffed peppers alongside a refreshing salad or crusty bread. A light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the filling and add a zesty contrast. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or a tangy yogurt-based sauce on top can add a creamy finish that complements the flavors beautifully.

Don’t shy away from garnishing your stuffed peppers with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nuts for an added crunch. Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can provide a delightful texture and nutty flavor that enhances the dish. Additionally, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare stuffed peppers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day ahead. Store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can fill the peppers with a mixture of ground turkey, quinoa, beans, or even a vegetarian option with lentils.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze stuffed peppers before baking. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.