Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe

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If you’ve been searching for a comforting, satisfying dinner that combines vibrant colors, hearty flavors, and a touch of cheesy goodness, you’ve just found it! This Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Juicy bell peppers are generously filled with a savory mix of ground beef, aromatic onions, tender rice, and bubbling cheese, making each bite a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s such a crowd-pleaser, easy to customize, and ideal for any night when you crave something homey yet impressive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in crafting these delicious stuffed peppers. From the bright bell peppers that add both color and a mild sweetness to the rich ground beef and melty cheese that bring the heartiness, each component is simple but vital for that crave-worthy result.

• Cooked rice (1 cup): Provides a tender, fluffy texture that absorbs the savory juices of the filling perfectly.
• Bell peppers (6 large): Choose any color you like—each adds vibrant visual appeal and a slight natural sweetness.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté onions and peppers for a subtle depth of flavor.
• Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Adds a mild sweetness and sharp undertone that complements the beef.
• Lean ground beef (1 pound): The star protein, bringing rich, meaty savory notes.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the filling with aromatic pungency that wakes up your taste buds.
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce (14-ounce can): Enhances moisture and adds a tangy, comforting tomato base.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon, optional): Boosts umami flavor with a subtle complexity.
• Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A fragrant herb blend that ties the ingredients together perfectly.
• Shredded cheddar cheese blend (2 cups, divided): Provides gooey richness and a golden finish when melted on top.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to make all the flavors shine.

How to Make Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

If you don’t already have cooked rice on hand, start by making some. I find it easiest to cook just a bit extra—about half a cup uncooked—so you’ll have just enough for this recipe plus a little leftover for another meal. The rice brings a comforting softness that balances the meaty filling wonderfully.

Step 2: Prep the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and position the rack in the middle. While the oven warms up, carefully cut the tops off your bell peppers, treating it like a tiny pumpkin carve to keep the edges even and prevent filling from leaking. Remove any seeds and membrane inside, and chop up the edible tops—you won’t waste a bit, since those bits get added to the filling, boosting flavor and texture.

Step 3: Set Up Your Baking Dish

Place the peppers standing upright, cut-side up, in a 9×13 baking dish or similar. Pour one cup of water into the bottom of the dish—this will steam the peppers gently while they bake, assuring they become tender but still hold their shape.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the olive oil, chopped onion, and chopped pepper tops to a skillet. Cook them together over medium-high heat for about five minutes, until softened and fragrant. This mix brings a natural sweetness and depth to the filling.

Step 5: Brown the Ground Beef

Add your ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up as it browns evenly. This takes about eight minutes. If you notice excess fat, carefully spoon it out so the filling stays flavorful but not greasy.

Step 6: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the minced garlic, followed by crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and Italian seasoning. Let everything heat together until nicely combined, then remove the skillet from the stove. This step turns your filling into a rich, aromatic masterpiece.

Step 7: Mix in Rice and Cheese

Fold the cooked rice and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the meat mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy; this is where the dish really comes alive!). Then fill each pepper generously with this delicious mixture, mound it slightly if you like.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This slow, gentle cooking softens the peppers and melds all the ingredients into a unified, saucy filling you’ll crave again and again.

Step 9: Finish with Cheese

After baking covered, remove the dish from the oven and check the peppers. They should still have a bit of firmness so they don’t fall apart, but if they feel too firm, simply bake a little longer. Now sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese over the tops. Return the peppers to the oven uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes, letting the cheese melt beautifully. For an extra golden, bubbly top, switch to broil for a few minutes—but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn!

How to Serve Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few torn basil leaves beautifully brighten the look and flavor of your stuffed peppers. You can also dollop a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy contrast that complements the rich, cheesy filling.

Side Dishes

Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe is such a hearty main that it pairs perfectly with light sides. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, or roasted vegetables add another layer of warmth and earthiness. Steamed green beans or garlic bread also make fantastic companions to round out your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try halving the peppers after baking and serving them open-faced with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of chili flakes. You could also serve the filling scooped out and layered over crunchy crostini as a snack or appetizer. No matter how you present this classic, it’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, let any uneaten stuffed peppers cool completely before covering with foil or transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making for easy, flavorful leftovers that reheat well.

Freezing

If you want to save your Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll maintain their quality for up to 3 months—perfect for stocking your freezer with ready-to-bake dinners.

Reheating

To reheat, remove any plastic wrap and cover the peppers loosely with foil. Bake in a 350-degree oven until heated through, typically about 20-25 minutes. You can add a few extra minutes uncovered at the end to refresh that melted cheese topping. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, though the oven method preserves the texture best.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice in this Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe?

Absolutely! While jasmine rice is lovely for its fluffy texture and aroma, you can swap in brown rice, basmati, or even quinoa for a healthier twist. Just make sure whatever grain you use is fully cooked before mixing it into the filling.

Is it necessary to add Worcestershire sauce?

Not at all. Worcestershire sauce adds a deeper umami flavor, but the filling will still be delicious without it. You can also substitute with soy sauce or leave it out for a milder taste.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, prepping the filling a day ahead is a fantastic time-saver. You can stuff the peppers, cover them tightly, and keep them in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a bit more baking time if starting cold from the fridge.

What’s the best way to ensure peppers don’t get soggy?

Adding water to the bottom of the baking dish helps steam the peppers perfectly without making them mushy. Also, watch your baking time closely—overcooking causes them to become limp, so test for tenderness without letting them fall apart.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter version that still works beautifully. You might want to add a little extra seasoning or a splash of broth to keep the filling juicy since poultry can be leaner than beef.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe is truly one of those timeless dishes that feels like a special occasion but comes together with everyday ingredients and ease. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I love sharing it. It’s the perfect way to bring everyone to the table with smiles, full bellies, and a craving for seconds. Give it a try—you might just have found your new comfort food favorite!

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