Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Traditions

I love making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers because they are not only delicious but also a beautiful dish to serve. The vibrant colors of the peppers filled with a savory mix of seasoned beef and rice create an appealing meal that's perfect for family dinners. As I combine flavors and textures, I enjoy seeing how each bite reveals the juicy filling. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in veggies while satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Let's dive into this flavorful recipe together!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-27T14:14:35.588Z

Each time I prepare Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers, I am reminded of family gatherings where delicious aromas filled the kitchen. I experimented with different spices and found that a touch of cumin and paprika elevates the dish to another level, making it truly irresistible. Ensuring the rice is cooked before mixing it with the beef saves time and enhances the overall texture with each bite.

One of my favorite moments is when I watch the colors of the peppers soften in the oven, melding beautifully with the filling. I often add a sprinkle of cheese on top for that melty finish, making this dish a favorite among both kids and adults alike. It's so rewarding to see clean plates at the end of dinner!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Colorful presentation that brightens any table
Savory and hearty filling abundant with flavor
Perfect for meal prep or leftovers that taste even better

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for stuffing, look for firm, smooth-skinned peppers with vibrant color. I prefer using a mix of red, yellow, and green to enhance the visual appeal. Each color has a slightly different flavor profile; green peppers are a bit more bitter, while red and yellow offer a sweeter taste. Ensure they are about the same size for even cooking, and remember that larger peppers provide more filling, but smaller ones are perfect for individual servings.

It’s also essential to ensure the peppers can stand upright. If necessary, slice a tiny bit off the bottom to create a flat surface, but be careful not to cut through the pepper. This small adjustment can prevent your delicious filling from spilling out during cooking while also allowing them to cook evenly.

Enhancing the Filling Flavor

To elevate the flavor profile of the stuffing, consider incorporating ingredients like fresh herbs—such as parsley or basil—into the beef and rice mixture. Adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce can impart an extra layer of umami richness that enhances the overall taste. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can kick things up a notch.

Don’t hesitate to mix in other vegetables like diced zucchini or corn for added texture and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté them until tender before adding to the filling to ensure everything cooks uniformly. Balancing the seasoning is key; taste the mixture before stuffing the peppers to ensure it’s well seasoned.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great advantages of Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers is that they can be made ahead of time. After stuffing the peppers, cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, just add about five extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through evenly. This is especially handy for busy weeknights or when hosting guests.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing unbaked stuffed peppers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and they can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes, until heated through.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a satisfying meal:

Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish and set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

Mix Ingredients

Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for a couple of minutes, stirring well to combine all ingredients.

Stuff the Peppers

Carefully fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of the filling.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Serve Hot

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Delicious and nutritious stuffed peppers ready to savor!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. A light side salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty filling beautifully and adds a refreshing touch. Additionally, a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls can make for a satisfying accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.

For a less traditional twist, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top just before serving. This addition adds creaminess and contrasts nicely with the savory stuffing, enhancing flavors with each bite.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the filling based on what you have on hand. You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. For grain alternatives, quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used instead of traditional rice, offering different textures and nutritional profiles.

Moreover, consider different flavor profiles by adding various seasoning blends or sauces. For instance, using taco seasoning in the mix can turn these stuffed peppers into a fun, Mexican-inspired dish. Topping them with salsa and avocado prior to serving can add additional layers of flavor and freshness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your stuffed peppers sometimes end up soggy, it could be due to excess moisture in the filling or undercooking them. Make sure to drain canned tomatoes well and consider cooking down fresh tomatoes to reduce liquid. Alternatively, pre-cook the rice slightly less than usual, as it will absorb some moisture during baking.

Another common issue is overcooked or burnt edges of the peppers. Covering the baking dish with foil for the first part of baking allows the peppers to steam and cook evenly. Remove the foil halfway to let the tops brown to your liking without overcooking the insides.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ Are these peppers gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rice and ensure your spices are gluten-free.