Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Bell 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 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Ideas

I love making Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers because they are not only delicious but also a fun and colorful way to serve a hearty meal. The sweetness of the bell peppers complements the savory ground beef and spices perfectly. I enjoy experimenting with different fillings, but this classic version remains a favorite for its simplicity and flavor. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, which makes them a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-02-27T15:53:35.431Z

When I first tried making Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers, I wanted a recipe that was both easy and satisfying. After some experimentation, I discovered that browning the beef with onions and garlic really enhances the flavor. This step is not to be skipped! The aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible.

What I love most about this dish is the versatility. You can add various spices or even throw in some cheese for an extra creamy layer. I often make a batch on Sundays, so I have a quick and hearty meal ready for the week ahead.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Colorful presentation that makes for an impressive meal
Savory ground beef paired with aromatic herbs and spices
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies and seasonings

The Importance of Properly Preparing Your Peppers

When making Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers, the way you prepare your peppers can significantly affect the final dish. Ensure you remove all seeds and membranes, as this will enhance the flavor and make for a more pleasant texture. I suggest cooking the peppers in boiling water for about 5 minutes before stuffing them; this not only softens them but also helps to release their natural sweetness. This extra step can also prevent them from ending up too crunchy after baking.

It's crucial to choose bell peppers that are firm and have vibrant colors. A mix of red, yellow, and green not only improves the dish's presentation but also adds slightly different flavor profiles. Green peppers are more herbaceous, while red and yellow peppers provide a pleasant sweetness. Keep in mind that the larger the pepper, the more filling it can hold; thus, selecting consistently sized ones will help keep cooking times uniform.

Flavor Enhancements Through Ingredients

The combination of ground beef with aromatic onions and garlic creates a deliciously savory filling for your stuffed peppers. To elevate the flavor further, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce while cooking the meat. This addition adds depth and a bit of heat without overwhelming the dish; just start with a teaspoon and adjust according to your taste. If you want to create a lighter version, you could easily substitute ground turkey or chicken, which will still pair beautifully with the bell peppers and spices.

Don’t hesitate to customize your filling by incorporating other vegetables such as diced zucchini or mushrooms, which will increase the nutritional content and add texture. For a vegan version, lentils or quinoa serve as excellent replacements for ground beef, delivering protein while keeping the dish satisfying. You can experiment with spices like cumin or chipotle powder for a different flavor profile to match your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Prepare to stuff your peppers!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your stuffed bell peppers:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Peppers

Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly so they stand upright.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, adding the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Mix in Other Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and cooked rice. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the beef mixture, packing it down gently. Top with shredded cheese if desired.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

Let the peppers cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding chopped herbs like parsley or basil into the beef mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Make-Ahead Tips

Make your stuffed peppers in advance by preparing the filling and stuffing them a day ahead. Once filled, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove them and bake them straight from the fridge, allowing an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time. This method is especially wonderful for busy weekdays or meal prep days, as you’ll save time without sacrificing flavor.

Consider freezing stuffed peppers if you have leftovers or want to prep for future meals. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven, covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which usually takes around 20-30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A drizzle of homemade balsamic glaze over the top just before serving adds an appealing tanginess that complements the dish beautifully. For a bit more indulgence, consider serving them with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives to enhance the color and freshness.

If you’d like to turn this dish into a party favorite, slice the peppers into halves and serve bite-sized pieces as appetizers. You can also use mini bell peppers for a cute and shareable version; just reduce the baking time since they’ll cook faster. This style makes for a fun twist on the classic presentation while still delivering the same hearty flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance, then cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake them.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like lentils or quinoa can be great substitutes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Freeze stuffed peppers before baking, and they will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.