Pin it
This hearty stuffed bell peppers recipe has become my go-to dinner option for busy weeknights. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fluffy brown rice, and colorful bell peppers creates a complete meal that's both nutritious and satisfying without requiring hours in the kitchen.
I first made these stuffed peppers when I needed a quick dinner solution that would please both my picky eaters and health-conscious family members. What started as a simple weeknight experiment has evolved into our most requested family meal when everyone gathers at the table.
Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle richness that enhances all the other flavors
- Onion and garlic: Create an aromatic foundation that infuses the filling
- Lean ground beef: Provides protein without excess fat. Look for 90/10 lean to fat ratio for best results
- Brown rice: Adds hearty texture and nutty flavor. Using precooked rice saves significant time
- Diced tomatoes: Bring acidity and moisture. Choose fire roasted for extra depth
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the umami flavor and helps bind the filling together
- Dried oregano: Provides classic Mediterranean notes that complement the beef perfectly
- Smoked paprika: Transforms the dish with its distinctive smoky flavor. Spanish varieties offer the most authentic taste
- Bell peppers: Choose firm peppers with glossy skin and thick walls for best results
- Cheddar jack cheese: Creates that irresistible golden melty topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the peppers:
- Cut the tops off your bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes carefully to create hollow vessels for filling. Arrange them cut side up in a baking dish where they fit snugly enough to support each other. This prevents them from tipping over during baking and spilling their delicious contents.
- Create the aromatic base:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Add diced onions and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they become translucent and start to soften. The edges should begin to turn golden. Add minced garlic and cook for just one minute more, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This aromatic foundation builds essential flavor for the entire dish.
- Brown the meat:
- Add ground beef to the skillet with the aromatics, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until no pink remains, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The meat should develop some caramelized bits for maximum flavor. Drain excess fat if necessary for a lighter result.
- Combine the filling:
- Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This creates a cohesive filling that will stay moist during baking.
- Stuff and bake:
- Divide the filling evenly among the prepared bell peppers, pressing down gently to fill any air pockets. Bake at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes until the peppers begin to soften but still maintain their shape. The initial bake tenderizes the peppers while allowing the filling to heat through completely.
- Add cheese and finish:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over each pepper, ensuring complete coverage for that perfect cheesy crust. Return to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops golden spots. This final step creates that irresistible melty top layer that makes everyone reach for seconds.
Pin it
The smoked paprika in this recipe is truly the secret ingredient that elevates these stuffed peppers from good to incredible. I discovered this after experimenting with different spice combinations, and the smokiness adds such a wonderful depth that complements the sweetness of the bell peppers perfectly. My family can always tell when I try to skip it.
Make Ahead Instructions
These stuffed peppers are perfect for meal planning and can be prepared in stages to save time on busy evenings. You can prepare the filling up to two days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply stuff your peppers and bake as directed, adding about 5 minutes to the initial baking time since the filling will be cold.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place in a microwave safe dish and heat for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through. For best results, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent the peppers from drying out. These peppers also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months wrap each cooled pepper individually in plastic wrap then aluminum foil before freezing.
Variations To Try
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a combination of chopped mushrooms, black beans, and quinoa. This creates a protein rich filling with wonderful texture variation. You can also experiment with different cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or pepper jack to create entirely new flavor profiles. Ground turkey or chicken makes an excellent lighter alternative to beef, especially when seasoned with herbs like basil and thyme.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers shine as a standalone meal, but pairing them with simple sides elevates the dining experience. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the rich peppers. For heartier appetites, serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. I also love offering a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side that can be spooned into the peppers for added creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this dish. It provides a lighter option without compromising flavor.
- → How do I ensure the bell peppers are tender?
Bake the bell peppers for about 10-12 minutes before adding the cheese. This ensures they soften while keeping their structure intact.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground meat with a mix of sautéed vegetables, beans, or plant-based protein options for a vegetarian version.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave until heated through or in the oven for a crispier texture.
- → What can I use as a low-carb substitute for rice?
Cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb alternative to brown rice. It adds texture while reducing carbohydrates.
- → Can I use a different cheese for this dish?
Yes, you can use any light or fat-free shredded cheese, or experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.