These stuffed bell peppers are baked until tender and filled with a savory beef and rice mixture, topped with melted cheese. A timeless dish that’s satisfying and easy to make.
Author:xqppw
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 5 minutes
Yield:6 stuffed peppers 1x
Category:Main Dish
Cuisine:American, Comfort Food
Ingredients
Scale
6 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup tomato sauce, divided
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Bell Peppers:
Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Blanch the peppers (optional for softer texture): Place them in a large pot of boiling water for 3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to cool. Drain and set aside.
Arrange the peppers upright in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Stuff the Peppers:
Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it in gently.
Spoon the remaining 1/2 cup of tomato sauce over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the peppers, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Make Ahead: Assemble the peppers up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
Variations: Add chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to the filling for extra veggies.
Cheese Options: Use Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.