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Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Flavorful Twist for Easy Family Meals

These stuffed bell peppers combine seasoned ground beef and brown rice for a satisfying meal that's both nutritious and family-friendly.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 peppers
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 4 large Bell Peppers Any color; ensure they’re firm with no blemishes.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Can substitute with canola or avocado oil.
  • 1 medium Onion Provides sweetness; shallots can be an alternative.
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic preferred.
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef Can swap with ground turkey or lentils.
  • 1.5 cups Cooked Brown Rice Quinoa can replace for a gluten-free variant.
  • 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes Can substitute with fresh tomatoes, adjusting the quantity.
  • 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste Can use homemade tomato puree for more volume.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Italian seasoning can be a quick substitute.
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika Smoked paprika adds depth, while sweet paprika is milder.
  • Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese Substitute with mozzarella or dairy-free cheese if needed.
  • Fresh Parsley Can omit or swap with fresh basil.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Slice the tops off the large bell peppers, removing seeds and white pith. Place the peppers cut-side up in the baking dish.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  4. Incorporate the minced garlic into the pan and stir for about one minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the ground beef to the skillet, cook for 5-6 minutes until fully browned, stirring frequently.
  6. Incorporate the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and paprika. Cook together for 4-5 minutes.
  7. Stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture, packing it down gently to avoid overstuffing.
  8. Bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes.
  9. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle cheese on top of each pepper. Return to oven for another 5-7 minutes until melted.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pepperCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 150mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce while sautéing the onions and garlic.

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