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 cup cooked rice; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals

I love making Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers when I want a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s also easy to prepare. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers combined with the savory beef filling create a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Each bite is packed with flavor, and I appreciate how this recipe allows for customization based on personal preferences. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, these stuffed peppers can be adjusted to suit your taste buds, making them a great option for the whole family.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-30T19:02:29.207Z

When I first attempted Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers, I realized how versatile this dish can be. I experimented with different ingredients in the filling, such as rice and various spices, until I found the perfect combination that my family loves. It's satisfying to watch everyone enjoy their meal while knowing I’ve packed in a good mix of flavors and nutrients.

The trick I learned was to pre-cook the bell peppers slightly before filling them. This ensures they’re tender and brings out their natural sweetness, making for a delightful contrast with the hearty beef filling. Plus, the colors make for a stunning presentation on the dinner table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory blend of spices enhances the flavor of ground beef
Colorful and nutritious presentation makes it a feast for the eyes
Easy to customize based on your favorite ingredients

The Role of Each Ingredient

Understanding the role of each ingredient in Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers can enhance your cooking experience. The bell peppers serve as both a vessel and a key flavor element, providing a sweet and slightly crunchy texture that perfectly complements the savory beef filling. The combination of diced tomatoes and cooked rice not only adds moisture but also helps to stretch the filling, making this dish both satisfying and economical. The aromatic onion and garlic inject a depth of flavor that elevates the whole dish, while Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy richness that rounds out the taste.

When it comes to the ground beef, I recommend using an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can lead to a dry filling, while too much fat may make it greasy. If you're looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using quinoa or lentils mixed with the same seasonings and vegetables for a hearty yet meatless filling.

Stuffing Techniques and Presentation

Achieving the perfect stuffing technique is crucial for this recipe. When packing the beef mixture into the peppers, be sure to fill them generously but avoid overstuffing, as this can lead to spillage while baking. A light pressing down can help ensure that the filling holds its shape. Using a spoon or a small scoop makes this process cleaner and easier, especially if you're handling multiple peppers at once. Don't forget to reserve some filling to use as a side dish—it's great for serving alongside the peppers if you enjoy a heartier meal.

Presentation is important when serving these stuffed peppers. Once they’ve baked until the cheese is bubbling and the peppers are tender (which you’ll know when pierced with a fork), consider garnishing them with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for added color and flavor. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate the dish visually and add a delicious tangy finish that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the peppers.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

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

Feel free to add your own spin with other vegetables or spices!

Instructions

Prepare the Bell Peppers

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

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, cook the chopped onion and garlic until soft. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Stuff the Peppers

Pack the beef mixture into each prepared bell pepper. If using, sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some diced jalapeños or different types of cheese into the filling. You can also serve these with a side salad for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy weeknights. Prepare the filling early in the day and stuff the peppers, then store them in the refrigerator covered with foil until you're ready to bake them. This can save you about 30 minutes of prep when mealtime arrives. Just remember to adjust your baking time slightly, as the peppers will need a bit longer to cook if they are chilled.

If you have leftover stuffed peppers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked stuffed peppers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and they will keep well for up to three months. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Flavor Variations

To keep things exciting, exploring flavor variations can be a fun aspect of preparing stuffed peppers. For a Mexican twist, add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to the beef mixture, topping it with shredded Mexican cheese and fresh cilantro after baking. If you're craving something more Mediterranean, consider incorporating feta cheese, olives, and herbs such as oregano or dill into the filling.

You can also experiment with different cheeses on top, such as pepper jack for heat or a creamy goat cheese for a tangy flavor. My favorite addition on occasion is a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cumin for an extra layer of warmth, which complements the beef beautifully. These substitutions allow you to adapt the recipe to seasonal ingredients or whatever you have in your pantry, keeping it fresh and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance, cover them tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What spices can I add for more flavor?

Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, paprika, or even chili powder for some heat.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version of this dish.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

These stuffed peppers go well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even mashed potatoes if you want a hearty meal.