Stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort food that combines a hearty beef and rice filling with the natural sweetness of roasted peppers. The dish is baked to perfection, topped with melty cheese, and finished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a hungry family, this one-pan recipe is a simple yet satisfying choice.
The best part? You can customize the filling to your liking—swap ground beef for turkey or add extra veggies for a nutritious twist. With its balance of flavors and textures, these Classic Stuffed Peppers are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Full Recipe:
- 6 bell peppers (any color), tops and cores removed
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15 or 90/10 recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, until the liquid reduces slightly.
- Arrange the bell peppers cut-side-up in a 13″x9″ baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil.
- Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Top with shredded cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 375 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
Classic Stuffed Peppers: A Timeless Comfort Food
Stuffed bell peppers are a dish that has stood the test of time, with variations found in cuisines across the globe. The concept is simple: take fresh bell peppers, hollow them out, and fill them with a delicious, hearty mixture before baking them to perfection. This classic recipe, featuring ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese, is a staple in many households because of its satisfying taste, ease of preparation, and versatility.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, stuffed peppers provide a visually appealing and flavor-packed dish that never disappoints. Their balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables makes them a well-rounded meal that can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences.
The History and Cultural Significance of Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers have been enjoyed by various cultures for centuries, each bringing their own unique twist to the dish. In Mediterranean cuisine, peppers are often stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and ground meat, sometimes topped with a tangy tomato sauce. In Mexican cuisine, variations like chiles rellenos are filled with cheese or meat and coated in a light batter before being fried. Eastern European recipes often include a rich tomato-based sauce and a hearty combination of ground beef, pork, and rice.
The beauty of stuffed peppers lies in their adaptability. The dish can be customized to reflect different regional flavors and ingredients while maintaining its core appeal: a tender pepper filled with a savory, well-seasoned stuffing that satisfies both hunger and taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Perfectly Balanced Meal: This recipe includes protein, grains, and vegetables all in one dish, making it a wholesome and nutritious option.
- Easy to Customize: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, replace rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice, or add more vegetables to suit your dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Stuffed peppers can be prepped in advance and baked when needed, making them a great option for busy schedules.
- One-Pan Simplicity: With minimal cleanup required, this dish is perfect for those who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Great for Meal Prepping: Stuffed peppers store well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for a quick and satisfying meal during the week.
Choosing the Right Bell Peppers
The choice of bell peppers can influence the flavor and texture of your dish. Red, yellow, and orange peppers tend to be sweeter and milder, while green peppers have a slightly bitter, grassy taste. Any color will work for this recipe, but if you prefer a naturally sweeter profile, opt for red or yellow bell peppers.
When selecting peppers, look for ones that are firm, glossy, and free from wrinkles or blemishes. They should be uniform in size to ensure even cooking. If your peppers are slightly uneven, you can carefully trim the bottoms to help them stand upright in the baking dish.
The Role of Rice in Stuffed Peppers
Rice plays a key role in the texture and heartiness of stuffed peppers. While traditional recipes use white or brown rice, there are plenty of alternatives to suit different dietary needs. Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and added fiber, while quinoa provides extra protein. Those following a low-carb diet can substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter version of the dish.
Cooking the rice ahead of time ensures that it absorbs the flavors of the beef and tomatoes while baking, creating a deliciously cohesive filling. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked or microwaveable rice to speed up the process.
Cheese: The Final Touch
One of the highlights of this classic stuffed peppers recipe is the layer of melted cheese on top. Monterey Jack cheese is a great option because of its mild, buttery flavor and excellent melting properties. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper Jack for a bit of spice.
If you want to add a gourmet touch, try using smoked gouda or feta cheese. The choice of cheese can significantly impact the final taste, so feel free to customize it to your preference.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Before baking, a light drizzle of olive oil helps keep the peppers tender and prevents them from drying out.
- Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack the peppers as much as possible, leave a little room to prevent the filling from spilling over during baking.
- Use a Baking Dish with High Sides: This helps keep the peppers upright and ensures even cooking. If necessary, you can use crumpled foil to help stabilize them.
- Bake Covered First: Covering the peppers with foil for the first 35 minutes helps them soften while keeping the filling moist. Uncovering them at the end allows the cheese to brown and bubble.
- Add Fresh Herbs for a Finishing Touch: Chopped fresh parsley, basil, or cilantro can elevate the dish and add a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed peppers are satisfying on their own, but you can enhance the meal by serving them with complementary side dishes. Some great options include:
- Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery side that pairs well with the flavors of the stuffed peppers.
- Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing contrast to the rich filling.
- Steamed Vegetables: A great way to add extra nutrients to your meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comforting and hearty meal, serve the peppers with a side of creamy mashed potatoes.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Stuffed peppers store well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making them an excellent meal-prep option.
- Refrigerator: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave until heated through.
- Freezer: To freeze, let the stuffed peppers cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Comfort Meal
Classic Stuffed Peppers are a timeless dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients. Whether you follow this traditional recipe or customize it to your taste, it’s a meal that delivers both comfort and satisfaction. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s no wonder that stuffed peppers have remained a beloved favorite for generations.
This recipe is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions where you want to serve something both delicious and visually appealing. With the ability to adapt the filling to fit dietary preferences and available ingredients, stuffed peppers prove to be one of the most versatile dishes in any home cook’s repertoire.