Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers for dinner because they're not only delicious but also customizable to my family's tastes. Each colorful pepper becomes a vessel for savory ground beef, rice, and spices, making every bite a delightful experience. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; I can mix in my favorite ingredients and adjust the seasoning to match my mood. Plus, baking them fills the kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma that makes everyone come to the table excited!

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:16:37.204Z

When I first made Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers, I found it to be a wonderful way to incorporate more veggies into our diet. The combination of savory beef and fresh peppers not only tasted amazing but also looked stunning on the dinner table. I experimented with different spices and settled on a blend that complements the beef perfectly. I prefer using a mix of Italian seasoning and smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor.

One of the best tips I discovered is to lightly blanch the bell peppers before stuffing them. This makes them tender and adds an extra layer of flavor. I also like to top them with a sprinkle of cheese right before serving, which brings a delicious creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the hearty filling. Trust me; this dish is a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and savory filling that satisfies any hunger
Colorful presentation that impresses at dinner parties
Adaptable recipe to accommodate various diets

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

When choosing bell peppers for this recipe, pick ones that are firm and vibrant, as they not only taste better but also hold their shape when baked. Look for peppers that have a smooth skin and a sturdy stem. If you want to reduce the sweetness of the peppers, opting for green peppers can give a more robust flavor that complements the savory filling beautifully. Additionally, if you prefer a bit of crunch, you can reduce the blanching time to just 2 minutes.

Cooking the ground beef until it's fully browned is crucial for flavor development. A good tip is to break up the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks, allowing for better browning and maximizing surface area exposure to the heat. This will give your filling a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the peppers. Make sure there are no pink bits remaining before moving on to adding other ingredients.

Storage and Reheating

Stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect option for meal prep. After assembling the stuffed peppers but before baking, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just remove the cover and add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through. Alternatively, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking, following the original instructions.

When reheating leftover stuffed peppers, a microwave works well for quick meals, though the oven can help maintain the texture. If using the microwave, place one pepper on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes on high power. For oven reheating, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to prevent drying out, baking for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Customizing Your Stuffed Peppers

One of the best parts about stuffed peppers is their versatility. You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian option. This not only changes the flavor profile but can also cater to various dietary needs. Adjusting the spices and adding ingredients such as corn, black beans, or olives can provide a fun twist on the traditional filling, making the dish your own.

For a Mediterranean flair, consider adding feta cheese, Kalamata olives, or even spinach to the filling mix. If you're in the mood for heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Also, topping each pepper with a mix of herbs and breadcrumbs before the final bake can create a delightful crunchy texture, enhancing both the taste and presentation.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to begin your delicious journey!

Stuffed Peppers Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious stuffed peppers!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Peppers

Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Optionally, blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it in tightly. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, add cheese if desired, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers!

Pro Tips

For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free variation.

Key Techniques

Managing the tension between the soft, roasted peppers and the hearty filling is crucial to achieving the perfect stuffed pepper. If you find the peppers are still too firm for your liking after baking, you can return them to the oven covered for an additional 10-15 minutes. This allows the insides to steam and the peppers to soften further without drying out. Checking for doneness can be done by gently pressing the sides; they should yield slightly without feeling mushy.

When mixing ingredients, make sure to taste the filling before stuffing. This is your opportunity to adjust seasonings, making it flavorful from the inside out. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of your favorite spice mix right before filling can elevate the flavor even more. Remember, the stuffing is the heart of the dish; let it shine!

Serving Suggestions

To round out this meal, consider serving the stuffed peppers alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up any extra filling. When you're ready to serve, slice the peppers in half to showcase their colorful layers, and drizzle a little olive oil or balsamic glaze for added flavor. I often suggest serving them with a side of garlic bread or a light dip like tzatziki to complement the rich stuffing.

For an appealing presentation at dinner parties, arrange the stuffed peppers on a decorative platter and sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley and parmesan cheese over the top. Adding a side of roasted vegetables or a fragrant rice pilaf can elevate your meal, turning a simple dish into an impressive feast that guests will remember.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers. Just prepare them, and instead of baking, wrap them tightly and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can use almost any filling! Try black beans, corn, or even a combination of vegetables for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I know when the peppers are done?

The peppers should be fork-tender and slightly blistered on the outside. The filling should be hot and bubbly.

→ Can I use different types of peppers?

Absolutely! Poblano or Anaheim peppers can add a different flavor and spice level. Just ensure they’re large enough to stuff.