Tasty Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Ground Beef Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of stuffed bell peppers wafting through your kitchen. Imagine vibrant red, green, or yellow peppers bursting at the seams with a savory mix of ground beef and fluffy rice—the very essence of comfort food. The sizzling sounds as they bake can make your mouth water in anticipation of that first bite.

I still remember the first time I tackled this crowd-pleaser for my family gathering. The reactions were priceless; my cousin even danced around the kitchen claiming I had transcended into culinary greatness! These stuffed bell peppers are perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests.

I once made these for a potluck, and everyone wanted seconds—definitely a hit!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bell Peppers: Choose firm, brightly colored peppers for the best presentation and flavor.
• Ground Beef: I prefer lean ground beef to keep things healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Cooked Rice: Use leftover rice if you have it; it saves time and adds texture.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion brings sweetness when sautéed; go for yellow or white.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor profile significantly; don’t skimp!
• Tomato Sauce: A good quality tomato sauce adds moisture; consider using diced tomatoes for extra texture.
• Cheese: Grated mozzarella or cheddar gives that gooey finish we all love; use as much as your heart desires.
• Spices (Salt, Pepper, Italian Herbs): Seasoning is crucial; tailor it based on your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly to prevent sticking during cooking.

Prepare the peppers: Slice the tops off each bell pepper carefully and remove the seeds. You’ll want them ready for stuffing without any pesky seeds getting in the way.

Sauté aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its delicious aroma.

Brown the beef: Add ground beef into the skillet with onions and garlic. Cook until well-browned while breaking it up with a spoon—about 5-7 minutes should do. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Mix filling ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, tomato sauce, spices, and browned meat mixture. Stir until everything is well combined like old friends at a reunion.

Stuff those peppers: Generously spoon the filling into each prepared bell pepper until overflowing slightly. Top each one with shredded cheese—because more cheese equals more happiness!

Bake in oven: Place filled peppers upright in your baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes before removing foil to let cheese bubble up nicely for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Serve hot: Once baked to golden perfection, serve immediately while they’re still warm. Watch how quickly they disappear—they’re that good!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the rice and brown the beef simultaneously, saving time and ensuring everything is hot and ready together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add beans for extra protein. Seasonings like cumin or smoked paprika can elevate flavors even further!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

I remember the first time I made stuffed bell peppers; my friends couldn’t get enough! We had a mini competition on who could stuff theirs best, leading to hilarious results and delicious memories.

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in stuffed peppers?

You can use turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.

How long do stuffed bell peppers take to cook in the oven?

Stuffed bell peppers usually take about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers before baking?

Yes, freeze them unbaked for up to three months; bake directly from frozen.

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Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Ground Beef

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Savor the delightful combination of savory ground beef and fluffy rice in these colorful stuffed bell peppers, perfect for a comforting family meal.

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Ingredients

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• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
• Salt, pepper, Italian herbs to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare the bell peppers by slicing off the tops and removing seeds.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions until golden; add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet; cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
5. In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, tomato sauce, spices, and the beef mixture until combined.
6. Stuff each bell pepper generously with the filling and top with shredded cheese.
7. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper (approx. 300g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 65mg