Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
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; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Ideas

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. There's something incredibly satisfying about hollowing out bell peppers and filling them with a savory mixture of seasoned beef, rice, and vegetables. The colors are vibrant and inviting, and every bite offers a burst of flavor. Plus, they are easy to customize based on what I have in my pantry, making them a versatile and delicious meal choice any night of the week.

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:33:34.776Z

When I first tried making stuffed peppers, I knew I had to find the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I experimented with various spices and ingredients until I landed on a recipe that really stood out. The key is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the beef mixture, which enhances the overall flavor profile.

One thing that pleasantly surprised me was the addition of diced tomatoes. They not only help keep the stuffing moist but also add a nice acidity that brightens the flavors. I recommend using fresh herbs right before serving for an extra pop of freshness!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Comforting and hearty, perfect for family dinners
Packed with flavor and can be customized to your liking
Colorful presentation makes for an appetizing dish

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for your stuffed peppers, look for ones that are firm and have a vibrant color. Sweetness and texture are key—choose peppers that feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes, as these can lead to uneven cooking and undesirable flavors. Personal preference can also play a role; red, yellow, and orange peppers tend to be sweeter than green, adding a nice flavor dimension to your dish.

For a creative twist, consider mixing different colors of bell peppers for both visual appeal and varying flavors. Each color brings a unique taste profile, with reds being sweeter and greens offering a slightly bitter bite. Additionally, if you're feeling adventurous, using poblano or Anaheim peppers offers a smoky flavor that complements the beef filling beautifully, while adding a bit of heat.

Enhancing the Filling

The filling for your stuffed peppers is where you can truly customize the recipe to suit your taste. Adding ingredients like chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or even corn can introduce new textures and flavors. Sauté these veggies alongside the onions and garlic for a deeper, more complex flavor profile. If you love a little heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to amp up the spice level.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can switch up the Italian seasoning with other herbs and spices, such as cumin for a southwestern flair or smoked paprika for a unique taste. Just be careful with the salt content if using cheese, as this can amplify flavors; taste your filling before stuffing the peppers to find the perfect balance.

Ingredients

Stuffed Peppers

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

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Peppers

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

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef mixture into each hollowed pepper, packing it down gently. If desired, top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Tips

Pro Tips

For a healthier version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or quinoa. You can also add chopped vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the filling for extra nutrition.

Make-Ahead Tips

Making stuffed peppers can be a time-consuming task, but they are perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can prepare the filling and hollow out the peppers a day in advance. Store both in the refrigerator, and when you're ready to bake, simply stuff and pop them in the oven. This also allows the flavors to meld better overnight, resulting in a more robust taste.

If you aim to freeze your stuffed peppers, it's best to undercook them slightly during the initial baking. This prevents them from becoming mushy upon reheating. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, baking from frozen will take about 40-50 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers make for a delightful centerpiece at any meal. To elevate the dish, serve alongside a fresh garden salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. This creates a balanced meal that offers a pleasing contrast to the hearty, savory flavors of the peppers. Additionally, a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices on the plate.

For an even more gourmet twist, you can drizzle the stuffed peppers with a balsamic reduction or top them with fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of feta cheese can also enhance the overall flavor and presentation, making your meal feel elevated and restaurant-quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the peppers and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

They pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Unbaked stuffed peppers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them before baking.

→ What's a good substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option.