Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Name: Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:49:14.492Z

These Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful and nutritious meal that the whole family will love. Packed with flavor and nutrients, they are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful and appetizing presentation
Versatile filling options to suit your taste
Healthy and satisfying meal in one dish

      

A Vibrant Dish for Any Occasion

Stuffed bell peppers are not just easy to make; they're also a feast for the eyes. The bright colors of the peppers, combined with the savory filling, create an appetizing presentation that can brighten any meal. Whether you're serving them for a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual gathering with friends, these peppers are sure to impress.

Moreover, they are wonderfully versatile. You can customize the filling to fit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. From vegetarian options with quinoa and black beans to hearty meat combinations, the possibilities are endless. This flexibility makes stuffed bell peppers a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Nutritious and Wholesome

One of the standout features of stuffed bell peppers is their nutritional value. Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. When filled with lean protein and grains, they provide a complete meal that is both satisfying and healthy. This makes them a fantastic option for those looking to eat well while enjoying delicious flavors.

Additionally, the recipe can be adapted to include various vegetables, boosting the fiber content and making it even more wholesome. You can sneak in chopped spinach, zucchini, or even corn to enhance the nutrition without compromising on taste.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Stuffed bell peppers are not only delightful to eat but also excellent for meal prepping. You can prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and store them in the refrigerator for quick lunches or dinners. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven, and you'll have a wholesome meal ready in minutes.

For those who love to freeze meals, these stuffed peppers hold up beautifully. Just make sure to undercook them slightly before freezing, and then you can bake them directly from the freezer. This makes them an ideal make-ahead recipe that fits into a busy lifestyle.

Ingredients

Stuffed Bell Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 cup cooked rice
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Feel free to customize your filling with vegetables, beans, or different spices!

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat with onions and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the meat mixture into each bell pepper until filled. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.

Bake and Add Cheese

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

These stuffed peppers can be served with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers

To ensure your stuffed peppers cook evenly, choose peppers that are similar in size. This will help them bake uniformly and become tender at the same time. Additionally, you can parboil the peppers for a few minutes before stuffing them if you prefer a softer texture.

Experimenting with spices can also elevate the flavors of your filling. Consider adding cumin, paprika, or chili powder for a bit of a kick. These spices complement the savory ingredients beautifully and add depth to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed bell peppers are delicious on their own, but a side salad or some garlic bread can make for a well-rounded meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs nicely, adding freshness to the hearty peppers.

For a fun twist, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation of your dish.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to switch things up, try using quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture and flavor. You can also experiment with various cheeses, such as feta or pepper jack, to lend a unique twist to the dish.

For a vegetarian option, consider a filling made with black beans, corn, and avocado. This alternative is not only nutritious but incredibly flavorful, catering to a wide range of dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can use quinoa, lentils, or even a mix of vegetables for a healthier option.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Just freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as directed.

→ How do I know when the peppers are done?

The peppers should be tender and the filling hot throughout, with the cheese melted and bubbly.