Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Quick Meals Ideas

Whenever I make Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers, I remember the warmth and community of family gatherings. The vibrant colors and hearty filling always bring smiles to the table. The combination of tender meat, fluffy rice, and fresh peppers is not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious. I love how this dish allows you to use up leftover ingredients, making it a versatile choice. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe that is both easy to prepare and full of flavors!

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:01:35.363Z

I’ve experimented with various fillings for stuffed peppers, but I always come back to this classic Ground Beef and Rice version. The flavors blend beautifully as the peppers roast in the oven, and I love how the rice absorbs all the savory juices from the meat. A tip I’ve learned is to slightly undercook the rice before mixing it with the beef; this way, it will soak up more flavor during baking without becoming mushy.

In making this recipe, we discovered the key to the perfect seasoning is balance. I switch up the spices according to what I have at hand, and it always results in a delightful variation. Adding a dash of paprika or some fresh herbs like parsley at the end elevates the taste, making this dish a comforting staple that my friends often request during potluck dinners.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for meal prep
Colorful presentation that impresses guests
Customizable with your favorite spices and extras

Perfecting Your Pepper Preparation

When selecting bell peppers, opt for ones that feel firm and heavy for their size, with smooth skin and vibrant color. Each pepper should sit upright without wobbling. Before cutting, wash the peppers thoroughly to remove any pesticides. You can experiment with a variety of colors, as each has slightly different flavors. Red peppers are sweeter, while green peppers have a more bitter taste. This adds an extra layer of flavor to your stuffed peppers, making them even more delightful.

Cutting the tops off can be a bit tricky, so use a sharp knife for clean edges. If you want to make stuffing them easier, consider trimming a small slice off the bottom for stability, but be careful not to cut through to the hollowed inside. This technique helps the pepper stand tall while baking, ensuring even cooking and preventing spillage of the filling.

Enhancing the Filling

The filling is where you can truly make this recipe your own. While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just ensure that the substitute has enough fat content to keep the filling moist. If you’re using lean meat, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet to maintain the right texture and flavor.

Don't hesitate to add more vegetables to the filling. Diced carrots, zucchini, or even spinach can boost the nutritional value without compromising the flavor. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic until softened before adding the meat. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a rich texture and helps balance the heartiness of the beef and rice.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers are perfect for meal prep! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to prepare them in advance, assemble the stuffed peppers without baking and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time to ensure they heat through completely.

For serving, pair these stuffed peppers with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the flavor profile, adding a sweet tangy contrast to the savory filling. Consider topping them with a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices for a creamy finish that complements the dish perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious meal:

Ingredients for Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

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

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add ground beef, cook until browned, then drain excess fat. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper until filled. If desired, top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option. You can also add vegetables such as corn or black beans to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your peppers come out too crunchy, it's likely they weren’t baked long enough. The peppers should be tender but still hold their shape at the end of baking. To resolve this, cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of cooking, which helps retain moisture, and test one for doneness before serving. If they're undercooked, simply return them to the oven for a few more minutes until they reach the desired tenderness.

On the flip side, if you notice the tops browning too much before the peppers are cooked through, you can loosely cover them with foil during the latter part of baking. This prevents excessive browning while allowing the filling to thoroughly heat.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to customize the spices used in the filling to suit your taste. Adding a hint of cumin or chili powder can give a Southwest twist, while fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add brightness. If you love heat, diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile, making your stuffed peppers a bit more exciting.

Additionally, consider varying the type of cheese you use. Feta or goat cheese can create a tangy contrast, while pepper jack will add creaminess and spice. Mix in your chosen cheese into the filling or sprinkle it on top before the final few minutes of baking for a gooey, melted finish.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the quantity of all ingredients by the number of servings you need. If using larger-sized bell peppers, be aware that you may need to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure the filling reaches the proper temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filling reaches 160°F (70°C) for beef and properly cooked substitutes.

If you wish to downscale, you can use smaller peppers like mini sweet peppers or even hollowed-out tomatoes. They also cook quicker, so adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for tenderness after 20 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like lentils.

→ How long do these stuffed peppers last in the fridge?

They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just ensure they are well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

They pair well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or your favorite dipping sauces.