Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting and colorful dish to brighten up your dinner table, this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is just the ticket! These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mix of ground beef, fluffy brown rice, and spices that come together beautifully. Not only are they delicious, but they also make for an impressive presentation. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish can fit right in, making it one of my all-time favorites.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these stuffed peppers ready to bake in no time!
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love the bright colors and cheesy goodness, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Versatile Fillings: Whether you prefer beef, turkey, or vegetarian options, this recipe can adapt to fit your needs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
- Deliciously Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, these peppers will keep everyone satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our ingredients! This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Filling:
- 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 Medium Onion (diced)
- 2-3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
- 1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice
- 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can)
- 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 2 teaspoons Paprika (see notes)
- Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Peppers:
- 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
- Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Swap the protein: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian filling.
- Add more veggies: Mix in some chopped zucchini or spinach into your filling for extra nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you like a little heat!
How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial because we want our peppers to cook evenly and get all nice and tender while they bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Place the 7 large bell peppers cut side up into a baking dish or rimmed tray. This not only looks beautiful but also allows them to hold all that delicious filling!
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion and sauté until it softens—this brings out its natural sweetness. Stir in 2-3 minced garlic cloves and cook for about one minute more until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan. Cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks for about 5-6 minutes. This step ensures that you have tasty bits of beef throughout your filling.
Step 5: Mix in Rice and Spices
Stir in 1½ cups of cooked brown rice, 14.5 ounces of diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 2 teaspoons of paprika. Let everything cook together until the sauce slightly reduces—about 4-5 minutes. Taste your mixture here and season with kosher salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Stuff the Peppers
Carefully stuff each pepper with your beef mixture. Don’t be shy; pack them full! Bake them in your preheated oven until they’re mostly tender—about 10-12 minutes.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Sprinkle each stuffed pepper with 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 8: Serve!
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. These peppers are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven—perfect for sharing with loved ones!
Enjoy making this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe; it’s sure to become a household favorite!
Pro Tips for Making Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Making stuffed bell peppers can be a breeze with just a few simple tips to elevate your dish and ensure everything turns out perfectly. Here are some pro tips to help you along the way:
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Choose Fresh Peppers: Opt for firm, vibrant bell peppers that are free from blemishes. Fresh peppers not only taste better but also hold their shape during baking.
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Customize the Filling: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like black beans, corn, or chopped vegetables. Adding variety not only enhances flavor but also packs in more nutrients.
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Pre-cook the Peppers: For softer peppers, you can blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes before stuffing. This helps ensure they’re tender and ready to enjoy right out of the oven.
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Don’t Skip Seasoning: Taste your filling before stuffing the peppers. Adjusting the seasoning is crucial for a deliciously savory outcome that will delight your family and friends.
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Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar jack is delightful, consider trying mozzarella, pepper jack, or a vegan cheese alternative for a unique twist on this classic recipe!
How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Stuffed bell peppers are not only flavorful but also make a beautiful presentation on your dining table. Here’s how you can serve them up beautifully!
Garnishes
- Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top provides creaminess and balances out the savory flavors of the stuffing.
- Sliced Avocado: Fresh avocado slices add creaminess and healthy fats that enhance both texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
- Simple Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed lightly with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of stuffed peppers nicely.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs and spices makes for a nutritious side that pairs well with the stuffed peppers’ hearty filling.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add a sweet contrast to the savory stuffed peppers while boosting your meal’s nutrition.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is always a favorite! It’s perfect for soaking up any extra juices from your stuffed peppers.
Enjoy these delicious easy stuffed bell peppers as part of your next family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner—they’re sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage
These Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy the flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to properly store and handle leftovers:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They can be stored for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- To freeze, wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
- For reheating from the fridge, place stuffed peppers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- If reheating from frozen, thaw first and then follow the above instructions.
FAQs
If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place! Here are some common queries answered:
Can I use other types of meat in this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute lean ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. The flavors will still shine through!
How do I know when my Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are done cooking?
The stuffed peppers should be tender but not mushy. They typically take about 10-12 minutes after stuffing and then another 5-7 minutes topped with cheese until bubbly.
Can I make this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe spicy?
Yes! You can add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling to give it an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice preference!
What can I serve with Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers?
These stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own but pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread on the side.
How do I store leftovers from my Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for future meals!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find as much joy in making these Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers as I do! This recipe is special not only because it’s simple and delicious but also because it’s versatile enough to accommodate various tastes. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or savoring leftovers later, they’re sure to please everyone at your table. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy cooking!
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers
If you’re in search of a vibrant and satisfying dish, look no further than this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe! These colorful bell peppers are filled with a delicious mixture of lean ground beef, fluffy brown rice, and aromatic spices, making them a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, these stuffed peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Their versatility allows you to customize the filling to suit your taste preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table will enjoy them. Plus, they can be prepared in advance, making mealtime stress-free!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 7
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2–3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1½ cups cooked brown rice
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (canned)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 7 large bell peppers (tops and cores removed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Prepare the bell peppers by placing them cut side up in a baking dish.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pan; cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Mix in cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper; let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture and bake for 10-12 minutes until tender.
- Top with shredded cheese and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg