If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s vibrant, flavorful, and truly satisfying, look no further than this Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe. It brilliantly combines colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, all baked to melty perfection with a cheesy topping. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal to impress guests, this recipe brings warmth and freshness to your table like no other.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to creating a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Each component here plays a key role, from the sweetness of fresh bell peppers to the hearty blend of beef and rice, rounded out by Italian seasoning and melted cheese for that perfect finishing touch.
- 6 bell peppers (any color): Choose firm peppers with vibrant skin for the best presentation and sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the meat evenly.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the savory base for the stuffing; opt for lean to keep it balanced.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For aromatic warmth and that signature savory boost.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Acts as a tender filler that soaks up the juices beautifully.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained: Offers juiciness and a tangy freshness without making the stuffing soggy.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor with hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend): Melts to a golden, bubbly topping that adds gooey comfort.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note upon serving.
How to Make Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Bell Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a baking dish lightly. Carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers, keeping them intact like little cups. Remove all seeds and membranes since these can add bitterness and make the peppers harder to eat. If needed, trim the bottoms so they stand upright. This sets the stage for a beautiful presentation and even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Mixture
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s fully browned, ensuring those rich, meaty flavors develop. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling just right. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion softens and becomes translucent—this step infuses the mixture with aromatic goodness.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Seasonings
Stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the stuffing to heat through. This flavorful blend forms the heart of your Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe.
Step 4: Stuff and Bake the Peppers
Spoon the warm beef and rice filling into each bell pepper until they are nicely packed. Generously sprinkle the top with your shredded cheese choice—it’s the crowning glory that will melt and bubble beautifully. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. This extra time lets the peppers soften thoroughly while the cheese gets that irresistible golden, bubbly finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the peppers. This touch of green not only brightens the visual appeal but adds a fresh herbal lift that ties all the flavors together perfectly. Your Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is the classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with other garnishes like chopped basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra pop of flavor and elegance. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement rather than overpower, such as a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, or steamed green beans with a touch of butter and garlic. These sides help balance the hearty stuffed peppers and make for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive look, mix bell pepper colors for a vibrant presentation on the plate. You can also slice the peppers into rings and stuff them for bite-sized appetizers or serve the filling scooped out over rice bowls for a deconstructed twist. No matter how you present, this Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe shines every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffed peppers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Simply cover and chill, ready to heat up whenever you need a quick, comforting bite.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed peppers for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap each pepper individually in foil and then plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain their texture and taste.
Reheating
To bring your Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe back to life, reheat them covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, a microwave works for faster reheating, but be careful not to overcook and dry out the peppers or filling.
FAQs
Can I use other meats besides ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be excellent substitutes, each adding its own twist to the Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed and season accordingly.
Is it necessary to cook the rice before adding to the stuffing?
Yes, precooked rice is important because raw rice won’t cook fully inside the peppers and could make the stuffing gritty. Using cooked rice ensures everything is tender and cohesive.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for a hearty combination of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives along with the other ingredients to keep the same satisfying texture and flavor profile.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both are traditional favorites because they melt beautifully and complement the filling’s richness. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a sharp provolone for extra flavor.
How do I prevent the peppers from becoming too mushy?
Trimming the bottom so they stand upright helps them bake evenly. Also, covering the dish with foil for the majority of the baking time retains moisture while finishing uncovered allows peppers to soften without overcooking and turning mushy.
Final Thoughts
The Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s colorful, hearty, and packed with flavors that will make everyone at your table smile. Whether you’re cooking it for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers combine vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and aromatic seasonings, topped with melted cheese. Baked to perfection, this comforting dish is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 6 bell peppers (any color)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
Grains and Canned Goods
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
Oils, Spices, and Cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleaning.
- Prepare Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Trim the bottoms if necessary so that the peppers stand upright. Arrange the peppers upright in the prepared baking dish.
- Cook Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling from being greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking the mixture for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each bell pepper. Generously top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the peppers to soften and the filling to cook thoroughly.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the stuffed peppers before serving for a fresh, colorful touch.
Notes
- Bell peppers of any color can be used; mix colors for a vibrant presentation.
- For a milder flavor, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Cook the rice ahead of time or use leftover rice to save preparation time.
- Drain as much fat as possible from the cooked ground beef to keep the filling from becoming greasy.
- To make it vegetarian, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Covering the dish with foil during baking helps peppers steam and become tender without drying out the filling.
