Delicious Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef Recipe

March 12, 2025

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The aroma of baked stuffed bell peppers fills the air like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine sinking your teeth into colorful bell peppers bursting with a savory ground beef filling that dances on your taste buds while melting cheese oozes over the top. This dish is not just food; it’s a glorious celebration of flavor that brings everyone around the table together.

I remember the first time I made these stuffed bell peppers for my family; my kids acted like I had served them gourmet cuisine straight from a five-star restaurant. They devoured every last bite while declaring me the “Queen of Dinner.” Perfect for cozy family nights or impressing guests at your next gathering, this dish promises an explosion of flavors and smiles all around.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Stuffed bell peppers are incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner a breeze on busy weeknights
The combination of flavors creates a delightful experience in each bite
Their vibrant colors make for an eye-catching presentation on any table
You can easily customize fillings based on personal preferences and dietary needs

I’ll never forget how my friends raved about these delicious beauties at our last potluck.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors like red, yellow, or green; they add sweetness and visual appeal.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a flavorful yet healthier option; it keeps the filling moist.
Onion: Finely chopped onions add sweetness and depth; sauté them until translucent for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic goodness; use minced garlic cloves for that punchy flavor.
Tomato Sauce: Opt for canned tomato sauce or homemade; it binds the filling together beautifully.
Rice: Cooked rice helps to bulk up the filling; use white or brown rice based on preference.
Cheese: Shredded cheese is essential for that gooey topping; mozzarella or cheddar work wonderfully here.
Spices and Herbs: Seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepping these delectable stuffed bell peppers is as easy as pie (or should I say pepper?). Follow along and let’s get cooking!

Prepare the Bell Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off each bell pepper and remove seeds while keeping them whole—like little edible cups waiting to be filled.

Sauté the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped onions until translucent and soft. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant—around 30 seconds is perfect.

Add Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef and cook until browned thoroughly. Drain excess fat if necessary—nobody wants greasy stuffing!

Create the Mixture: Stir in cooked rice and tomato sauce along with spices like salt, pepper, and paprika. Allow everything to simmer together until heated through—about five minutes should do it.

Stuff Those Peppers: Generously fill each prepared bell pepper with your savory mixture. Pack it tightly but leave some space at the top because cheese is coming next!

Bake to Perfection: Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese, then bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

And there you have it! Your kitchen will smell divine as you pull these beauties out of the oven. Serve hot with fresh herbs sprinkled on top if you’re feeling fancy.

Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

You Must Know

Stuffed bell peppers with ground beef are a wholesome family favorite, combining flavors and textures
The vibrant colors of the peppers and the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen will entice everyone to the dinner table
Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in those veggies!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your bell peppers—cut the tops off and remove seeds. Cook the beef until browned while preheating your oven to 375°F. Mix in your favorite seasonings before stuffing those colorful beauties and baking for about 25-30 minutes.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even quinoa for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different spices like cumin or paprika to give it that extra zing. You can also top it with cheese for that melty goodness everyone loves!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay juicy and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect stuffed bell peppers, always pre-cook your rice and meat mixture to enhance flavors
Don’t overstuff; leave some room for expansion while cooking
Finally, let them rest after baking for better texture and taste integration

It was my grandma’s recipe that introduced me to stuffed bell peppers, and I remember her saying, “The messier you make it, the more love you’ll taste!” That kind of wisdom stays with you forever.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of ground meat works best for stuffed bell peppers?

Ground beef is classic, but turkey or chicken are great lighter options too.

Can I make stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance and store them before baking.

What sides pair well with stuffed bell peppers?

A fresh salad or garlic bread complements stuffed bell peppers perfectly!

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