Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers

I love making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers for dinner because they are not only delicious, but they're also a complete meal in one dish. The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and vibrant bell peppers brings a comforting warmth to the dining table. Plus, I appreciate how easy they are to customize with different spices and vegetables. Whether it's a weeknight or a casual gathering, these stuffed peppers never fail to impress with their hearty flavors and beautiful presentation.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:09:36.494Z

When I first tried making stuffed peppers, I was blown away by how well the flavors meld together. The sweet bell peppers offer the perfect contrast to the savory beef and spices, creating a delightful dish that’s not only eye-catching but also incredibly satisfying. I found that precooking the rice helps keep the peppers from getting soggy and allows the flavors to develop beautifully.

Another tip I've learned is to sprinkle some cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking. It adds a lovely gooey layer that makes every bite irresistible! Since then, these stuffed peppers have become a family favorite for both their taste and ease of preparation.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful presentation that’s perfect for serving guests
Nutritious and filling — a complete meal in one
Endlessly customizable with your favorite veggies and spices

      

Selecting the Perfect Peppers

When choosing bell peppers for stuffing, opt for ones that are firm and have vibrant colors. Red, yellow, and orange peppers tend to be sweeter, while green peppers have a more distinct, slightly bitter flavor. Make sure to select peppers with a flat bottom so they stand upright in the baking dish, preventing any spillage of the filling during cooking.

Another tip is to look for peppers that feel heavy for their size, indicating they are juicy and fresh. Avoid any that have bruises or soft spots, as these may spoil quickly. You can also create a fun variety by using a mix of colors; the visual appeal of a multi-colored dish will impress your guests.

Enhancing the Filling Flavors

The filling for these stuffed peppers can be a playground for flavors. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the beef mixture will elevate the savory depth and add some heat. If you’re a fan of extra spice, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes, adjusting according to your heat preference.

Don't shy away from incorporating different vegetables too. Chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach can introduce additional nutrients and textures. If you're using firmer vegetables, sauté them briefly with the onions and garlic to ensure they release their moisture and blend seamlessly into the beef mixture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. Prepare the peppers and filling, assemble them, then cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes to ensure they're heated through.

For creative serving ideas, pair your stuffed peppers with a side salad or garlic bread for a rounded meal. Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a great option for quick lunches or dinners. You can also freeze them for up to three months; just bake straight from the freezer, adding about 15 minutes to the cooking time for best results.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before starting:

Stuffed Peppers Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured for convenience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set them aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until heated through.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper until they are generously filled. Place them upright in a baking dish. If desired, top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding chopped fresh herbs to the filling. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for beef for a lighter option.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when baking stuffed peppers is undercooked filling. To avoid this, ensure the beef is fully browned before adding other ingredients. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 160°F (71°C) when correctly cooked. If you're unsure, allow extra time in the oven covered with foil to guarantee tenderness throughout.

If your peppers seem to be browning too quickly, cover them with foil for part of the baking time. This will prevent them from becoming overly charred while ensuring the filling warms thoroughly. Conversely, if you prefer a slight char for enhanced flavor, leave the foil off during the last 10 minutes of baking when you add the cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten this dish, you can substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken, which will yield a similar texture but with fewer calories. For a vegetarian option, opt for cooked quinoa or lentils as the base protein, and include additional vegetables to enhance the dish's nutrition.

For the rice, you might consider using brown rice or cauliflower rice as healthier alternatives. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and a chewy texture, while cauliflower rice keeps the dish low-carb. Just be mindful that the cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to make sure everything is properly cooked.

Variations to Try

One delicious variation is to create a southwestern flair by adding black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to the filling mixture. Topping the peppers with avocado or a dollop of sour cream upon serving elevates this version even more.

Another option is to use a Mediterranean twist by incorporating feta cheese, sundried tomatoes, and olives into the filling. You can complement this variation by serving the stuffed peppers with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping, bringing a refreshing aspect to the hearty dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the filling and stuff the peppers up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option.

→ How long do leftovers last?

Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking them. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra baking time.