Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Tender bell peppers baked to perfection, filled with a savory mix of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and rich tomato sauce. A classic American comfort food that's both hearty and delicious.
For 4 servings
10 steps. 55 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or one large enough to hold the peppers snugly.
- 2
Prepare the bell peppers
- a.Slice the tops off, then carefully remove the seeds and white membranes. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the peppers by boiling them for 3-4 minutes to soften. Remove with tongs and place them upside down on a paper towel to drain excess water.
- 3
While peppers drain, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- a.Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the ground beef to the skillet
- a.Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- 5
Remove the skillet from the heat
- a.Stir in the cooked rice, 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- 6
Arrange the blanched peppers upright in the prepared baking dish
- a.Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each pepper, filling them to the top.
- 7
Step 7
- a.In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of tomato sauce with 1/2 cup of water. Pour this mixture into the bottom of the baking dish, around the peppers. This will create steam and keep the peppers moist.
- 8
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes
- a.The peppers should be getting tender.
- 9
Carefully remove the foil
- a.Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tops of the peppers. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are fully tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 10
Remove from the oven and let the peppers rest for 5-10 minutes before serving
- a.This allows the filling to set.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra tender peppers, increase the covered baking time to 35 minutes before adding the cheese.
- 2Using a mix of bell pepper colors like red, yellow, and orange not only looks beautiful but also provides a range of sweet flavors.
- 3To save time, you can use leftover cooked rice or quick-cook rice.
- 4Assemble the peppers a day in advance (without baking), cover, and refrigerate. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
- 5Don't pack the filling too tightly into the peppers, as this can make it dense. A gentle fill is best.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Grain Free / Low CarbGrain-Free / Low-Carb
Replace the cooked rice with an equal amount of cauliflower rice or quinoa for a healthier, lower-carb option.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or one finely diced jalapeño to the beef mixture for a touch of heat.
Cheese VarietyCheese Variety
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for spice, provolone for a mild pull, or a Mexican cheese blend for a zesty flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The ground beef provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Protein also helps in keeping you full and satisfied.
Rich in Vitamins
Bell peppers are packed with vitamins, especially Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Red bell peppers, in particular, are one of the best dietary sources of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
Provides Sustained Energy
The combination of rice and protein offers a source of sustained energy, making this a hearty and fulfilling meal that can power you through your day.
Contains Antioxidants
The tomato sauce is a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Frequently asked questions
A single beef and rice stuffed pepper contains approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the size of the pepper and the fat content of the ground beef used.