Get ready for a truly satisfying and wonderfully flavorful main course that’s both a weeknight hero and a comforting classic! Imagine vibrant bell peppers, tender and sweet, generously filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and rich tomato sauce, all baked until bubbly and topped with a melty blanket of cheese. What makes these Stuffed Bell Peppers truly special is their timeless appeal and the way they transform simple ingredients into a complete, nourishing meal that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for a cozy family dinner when you crave something hearty and delicious, a fantastic make-ahead option for busy schedules, or when you simply want a reliable and crowd-pleasing recipe. You’ll love how the aroma fills your kitchen, promising a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will adore!
Prep Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins - 1 hr 35 mins (includes baking time)
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Bell Peppers & Preparation:
- 4 large Bell Peppers, halved, deseeded
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 cup Water
For the Savory Beef & Rice Filling:
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef
- 1 tsp Dried Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
- 1 (15 oz) Can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup Tomato Sauce
- 1 cup Cooked Rice
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, plus more for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the cut sides of the bell pepper halves lightly with 1 tbsp olive oil and place them cut-side down in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes to par-cook.
- Cook Aromatics: While peppers pre-bake, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Brown Meat: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in the Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Add the undrained diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Filling: Remove from heat. Stir in the cooked rice, chopped fresh parsley, and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Stuff Peppers: Remove par-baked pepper halves from the oven and turn them cut-side up. Generously stuff each bell pepper half with the beef and rice mixture.
- Arrange and Bake: Arrange stuffed peppers in the baking dish. Pour 1/2 cup water into the bottom of the dish.
- First Bake: Cover loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Add Topping and Finish Baking: Remove foil. Sprinkle tops generously with more shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Recipe Notes:
- Pepper Prep: Halving peppers lengthwise is recommended for easier stuffing and serving.
- Meat Variations: Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef. Adjust seasoning as needed. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Rice Options: Any cooked white or brown rice works well. Leftover rice is perfect!
- Cheese Choices: Cheddar or Monterey Jack can be used instead of Mozzarella.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance and store it refrigerated. Stuff peppers just before baking. Assembled peppers can also be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking (add 10-15 mins to initial covered baking time if baking from cold).
- Freezing: Cooked and cooled stuffed peppers freeze well. Wrap individually or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, corn, and extra diced vegetables. Season well.
And there you have it – a truly comforting, hearty, and delicious batch of Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers that’s perfect for feeding your family and warming your soul! This recipe is sure to be a go-to for its incredible flavor, satisfying nature, and the joy it brings to the dinner table. We hope you delight in every savory bite! Happy cooking!
