If you’re looking for a hearty, colorful meal that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen, you are going to love this Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish with vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mix of ground beef, tender rice, tangy tomatoes, and melty mozzarella cheese. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors that make it an all-time family favorite and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building the delicious layers of flavor and texture in your Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe. From the crispness of the peppers to the richness of the cheese and the savory filling, every element matters.
- 4 large bell peppers (any color): Choose sturdy peppers to hold the filling and brighten the dish with their natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps soften the onions and garlic perfectly.
- 1 small onion (diced): Brings sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a flavor punch.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this dish filling and flavorful.
- 1 cup cooked white rice: Adds bulk and a subtle texture that pairs perfectly with the beef.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained): Contributes a juicy, tangy layer that keeps the filling moist.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping): Helps bind everything together and delivers classic tomato goodness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Boosts the flavor with a fragrant blend of herbs.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding creamy, gooey satisfaction.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, vibrant touch to finish the dish.
How to Make Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off your bell peppers and carefully remove all the seeds and membranes inside. This creates the perfect little cups to hold your savory filling. If needed, trim the pepper bottoms just a bit so they stand upright in your baking dish—steady peppers mean even cooking!
Step 2: Cook Your Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook it gently until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the garlic and cook for another minute to awaken its aroma. Next, toss in the ground beef, cooking it until it’s nicely browned while breaking it apart. Drain any excess fat, so your filling isn’t greasy.
Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Now, stir the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper right into the beef mixture. Let this simmer for 3 to 5 minutes so all those beautiful flavors can mingle and deepen.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Carefully spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in tightly so every bite is full of flavor. Top each generously with a little extra tomato sauce and then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese for that irresistible golden melt.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your baking dish with foil to keep moisture locked in, and bake for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and give your peppers another 10 to 15 minutes in the oven so the cheese bubbles up and gets that perfect golden brown finish.
How to Serve Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a fantastic, simple garnish that adds a pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness to your stuffed peppers. Just a sprinkle before serving makes the dish feel more refined and inviting.
Side Dishes
Though stuffed bell peppers are satisfying on their own, pairing them with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables elevates the meal with extra color and crunch. For a cozy touch, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread also work wonderfully alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or a fun weeknight twist, try serving your Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe halved and arranged on a platter with a drizzle of extra tomato sauce on top. You can also sprinkle with fresh basil or a dash of chili flakes to customize the dish and impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, you can store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep their flavors wonderfully and only get more convenient for quick meals later on.
Freezing
These peppers freeze beautifully if you want to plan ahead. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to enjoy your Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers by placing them in a microwave-safe dish and covering loosely with a paper towel, heating for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes to revive the oven-baked texture and melted cheese magic.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives, and you can also try plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly version of this Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe.
Do the bell peppers need to be pre-cooked?
They don’t have to be pre-cooked, but trimming the bottoms slightly helps them stand upright, and baking them filled softens them perfectly while keeping their shape.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and stuff your peppers, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great time-saver for busy days or entertaining.
What can I substitute for white rice?
You can swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or couscous to add different textures and nutritional profiles while keeping the filling hearty and delicious.
How do I prevent the peppers from getting soggy?
Draining the diced tomatoes well and not overfilling the peppers helps keep them from becoming too watery. Baking uncovered for the last 10–15 minutes ensures the cheese gets bubbly and the moisture evaporates nicely.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a meal that combines familiar flavors with such vibrant presentation, and this Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe captures that feeling perfectly. It’s a dish you can count on to bring smiles around the table, day after day, with just the right balance of wholesome ingredients and cozy warmth. I’m excited for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers featuring a savory blend of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and baked to perfection. This comforting American main course is easy to prepare and perfect for a wholesome family dinner.
Ingredients
Bell Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
Fillings and Sauce
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce, plus more for topping
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Bell Peppers: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish, trimming the bottoms if necessary to help them stand.
- Cook Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: Stir in cooked white rice, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it tightly. Top each stuffed pepper with a spoonful of tomato sauce and sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes to cook the peppers thoroughly.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley and serve the stuffed peppers warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lighter or vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
- These stuffed peppers can be prepared ahead of time and reheated for convenient meals throughout the week.
