Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Inspiration

When it comes to comfort food, I have a soft spot for stuffed peppers. I often find myself making these Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers on busy weeknights or when I’m entertaining guests. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and colorful bell peppers makes for a hearty and nutritious meal that always satisfies. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to customize with your favorite spices and toppings, which means every time I make them, they feel fresh and exciting. I can’t wait for you to try them!

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:45:35.832Z

My journey with stuffed peppers began when I was a child, watching my grandmother fill vibrant, roasted bell peppers with a savory mixture of beef and rice. I’ve carried that tradition into my own kitchen, experimenting with different flavors and spices that reflect our ever-changing taste buds. One crucial tip I’ve learned is to par-cook the rice and beef before stuffing, which enhances the flavors and ensures everything cooks evenly.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that the choice of peppers can greatly impact the dish’s final taste. I love using a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers to not only make the dish visually appealing but also to enjoy the slight sweetness of the red peppers contrasted with the earthiness of green. It’s a delightful balance that never fails to impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Colorful presentation that brightens up the dinner table
Packed with protein and vegetables for a well-rounded meal
Versatile ingredients allow for endless variation and creativity

Selecting the Right Peppers

When choosing bell peppers for this recipe, opt for firm, glossy fruits that feel heavy for their size. The color of the peppers can change the flavor profile slightly; for example, red and yellow peppers are sweeter than green ones. If you prefer a slight bitterness, green peppers work well. You can also mix and match the colors for a vibrant presentation that heightens the dish's appeal.

Before preparing, it's essential to ensure that the peppers have a stable base. If they wobble, you may want to slice a small bit off the bottom to create a flat surface, but be careful not to pierce through into the cavity. This step helps them stand upright in the baking dish, preventing spills while cooking and ensuring even heating throughout.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these stuffed peppers marries flavor and texture in a delicious way. Use lean ground beef for a moist filling but be cautious not to overcook it in the skillet. Searing until browned allows the meat to develop richness and depth. After searing, letting it simmer with the other ingredients allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Experimenting with spices can elevate your filling. While Italian seasoning lends a classic flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a deeper, earthy essence. Fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or basil, can also be stirred in just before stuffing for a fresh burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers:

Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it lightly. If desired, top each one with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.

Serve your stuffed peppers hot, enjoying the wonderful aroma and flavors they deliver!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some chopped fresh basil or parsley to the filling before stuffing the peppers. You can also use cooked quinoa instead of rice for a healthier twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These stuffed peppers are a fantastic make-ahead option. Prepare the filling and stuff the peppers, then cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes prior to baking, or adjust the baking time accordingly if they're still cool from the fridge.

For leftovers, store any uneaten stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for about 3–4 minutes on high, ensuring they're steaming hot in the center.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with the filling! If you want a healthier twist, substitute ground chicken or turkey for the beef. This not only lowers the fat content but can also take on a wonderful flavor when seasoned well. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with black beans or lentils combined with additional diced vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms for added texture.

Topping your stuffed peppers with cheese is optional but highly recommended. Try different cheese varieties; mozzarella is mild and gooey, while cheddar adds a sharper taste. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast sprinkled on top can provide a cheesy flavor without the milk.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work just as well if you prefer a lighter option.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils and add more vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ Can you freeze the stuffed peppers?

Yes, they freeze well before or after baking. Just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What should I serve with stuffed peppers?

They pair nicely with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.