These Stuffed Bell Peppers are filled with juicy ground beef, tender rice, herbs, and melty cheese baked to perfection in a savory tomato sauce. This easy, family-favorite recipe is hearty, colorful, and ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Stuffed Bell Peppers A Classic Comfort Meal Packed with Flavor

Few dishes feel as warm, nostalgic, and satisfying as a plate of Stuffed Bell Peppers. Brightly colored peppers packed with seasoned meat, rice, and cheese create a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. This classic comfort food has been enjoyed for generations and remains a staple in kitchens worldwide.

Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a dinner party, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers everything you want in a wholesome meal — rich flavor, vibrant presentation, and a hearty serving of protein and vegetables.

Let’s explore how to make perfectly tender, juicy, and cheesy stuffed peppers that taste just as good as they look.

Ingredients

For the Peppers

6 large bell peppers (any color — red, yellow, or green)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Filling

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the Sauce

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
½ teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Start by washing the peppers thoroughly. Slice off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes inside.

Brush the inside lightly with olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and place them upright in a baking dish.

To ensure tenderness, pre-bake the peppers:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the peppers (without filling) for 10–12 minutes until slightly softened.
Remove and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant — about 3 minutes.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings — oregano, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors blend beautifully.

Remove from heat and stir in the cooked rice, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling mixture into each pepper, pressing down gently to pack it firmly. Fill each pepper to the top.

Pour tomato sauce over and around the peppers in the baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top of each one for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.

Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

The peppers should be tender but still hold their shape perfectly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

These Stuffed Bell Peppers are best enjoyed warm, served with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers

Choose the Right Peppers: Red, yellow, and orange peppers are naturally sweeter and milder than green ones — ideal for kids or those who prefer a gentle flavor.
Pre-baking Helps: Softening the peppers before stuffing ensures even cooking and a tender bite.
Use Leftover Rice: Day-old rice works perfectly because it holds its texture better than freshly cooked rice.
Add Veggies: You can sneak in chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost nutrition.
Cheese Variations: Try cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Make Ahead: Stuff the peppers a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Freezer Friendly: Cooked stuffed peppers can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your stuffed bell peppers with garlic bread, mashed potatoes, or buttered corn on the cob.
For a low-carb side, try cauliflower rice or a simple garden salad.
Drizzle extra tomato sauce on top or serve with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.
A sprinkle of chili flakes or hot sauce adds a bold, spicy kick for those who like heat.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	380 kcal
Protein	27 g
Carbohydrates	22 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugars	7 g
Sodium	720 mg
Calcium	180 mg
Iron	3.5 mg

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredients and portion size.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Family-Friendly: A colorful and wholesome dinner that both kids and adults love.
Balanced Meal: Each stuffed pepper delivers a healthy mix of protein, carbs, and veggies.
Customizable: Swap beef for turkey, rice for quinoa, or add beans for a vegetarian twist.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without compromising flavor.
Meal-Prep Approved: Great for freezing or reheating, making it perfect for busy weeks.

Make It Your Way – Delicious Variations

Mexican-Style: Add black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder. Top with cheddar and cilantro.
Mediterranean-Inspired: Use feta cheese, olives, and oregano instead of mozzarella.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use lentils or chickpeas for a protein-rich filling.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red chili flakes to the filling.
Low-Carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave until hot.

Final Thoughts

These Stuffed Bell Peppers are more than just a meal — they’re comfort in every bite. With their colorful presentation, hearty filling, and balanced nutrition, they bring together everything you love about home-cooked food.

Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for guests. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again — because good food never goes out of style.

So grab those vibrant peppers and start cooking — your next dinner masterpiece awaits.

STUFFED BELL PEPPERS