Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers: The Ultimate Easy, Hearty, and Healthy Weeknight Dinner
These Stuffed Peppers embody everything you could desire in a dinner recipe. They are remarkably healthy, bursting with savory flavors, and incredibly straightforward to prepare. This classic stuffed pepper recipe stands out as one of the best! Crafted with lean ground beef, rich tomatoes, tender rice, and fresh, vibrant bell peppers, this delightful dish is a cherished favorite in countless households.
If you’re seeking a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe to delight your family or guests, your search ends here. Our classic stuffed peppers recipe is designed to impress, delivering a significant “wow factor” to any dinner table. These vibrant bell peppers, generously filled with a savory mixture of lean ground beef and tender rice, are not only deeply satisfying but also packed with fiber and surprisingly low in calories. It’s a well-rounded meal that perfectly balances hearty goodness with bold, delicious flavors.
Beyond this traditional preparation, bell peppers offer endless culinary possibilities. For those who love exploring different profiles, be sure to check out my Southwest Chipotle Stuffed Peppers to uncover even more exciting flavors that you’re sure to adore.
What makes this recipe truly special is the harmonious combination of nutrient-dense ingredients. The lean ground beef provides essential protein, brown rice offers complex carbohydrates and fiber, and the bell peppers contribute a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants. Together, they create a mouthwatering meal that nourishes the body while satisfying the taste buds. This recipe is also incredibly flexible; it can easily be scaled down or cut in half when you’re cooking for a smaller gathering, making it ideal for any occasion.
A Cherished Family Favorite: Why Stuffed Peppers Always Win
There’s a special kind of joy that comes from seeing your family gather around a meal you’ve prepared, especially when it’s a dish that has been loved for generations. For me, these classic stuffed peppers hold a particularly nostalgic place in my heart, as they’ve been one of my favorite meals since childhood. And I couldn’t be happier that they’ve become one of my family’s most cherished dinners too! In fact, as an adult, I confess I might be a little “Stuffed Pepper Obsessed.” You’ll discover all sorts of delightful variations right here on my website, reflecting this passion.
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its sheer simplicity. Often, I’ll prepare the filling and stuff the peppers in the morning, letting them chill in the refrigerator. Then, when the kids arrive home from school, all it takes is popping them into the oven. By 5:30, dinner is perfectly ready, all cooked in one convenient dish! This hands-off approach makes it an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights, allowing for more quality time with family.
Beyond their ease and incredible flavor, these stuffed peppers offer impressive health benefits. They are notably low in calories and, for those monitoring their diet, rich in essential fiber. Unlike a light salad that might leave you feeling hungry an hour or two later, this is a truly filling and hearty meal. It provides sustained energy and satisfaction, ensuring everyone leaves the table feeling nourished and content.
Why This Stuffed Pepper Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
- Effortlessly Easy to Make: Forget complicated recipes! These stuffed peppers come together in just a few straightforward steps. Once assembled, simply let them bake, filling your home with a comforting aroma, while you sit back and relax. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
- Remarkably Versatile: This recipe is a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity. While ground beef and rice are classic, you can easily switch up the proteins (think ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles) or try different grains like quinoa or wild rice. Experiment with various spices, herbs, or cheeses to tailor it perfectly to your family’s preferences.
- Deeply Comforting: There’s something inherently comforting about classic dishes, and stuffed peppers are no exception. This filling recipe is loaded with all the hearty ingredients you love, making it the ultimate comfort food for a cozy evening. It’s a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
- Nutritionally Balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich grains, and vitamin-loaded bell peppers, this meal offers excellent nutritional value. It’s a satisfying option that supports a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing readily available and affordable ingredients, this recipe is kind to your wallet. It’s an economical way to feed a crowd or ensure delicious leftovers for days.
- Great for Meal Prep: Stuffed peppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them ideal for meal prepping. You can assemble them in advance and bake them when ready, or bake a large batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
Essential Ingredients for Your Easy Stuffed Peppers
For the complete list of measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this page!
Rice: The choice of rice offers flexibility. You can use either instant brown or white rice for this recipe. For a healthier option that boosts fiber content, brown rice is an excellent choice. Its slightly nutty flavor also complements the savory beef and sweet peppers beautifully. If you prefer a softer texture and quicker cooking, white rice works perfectly too.
Bell Peppers: Any color of bell pepper can be used, and each offers a slightly different flavor profile and aesthetic. Red, yellow, and orange peppers tend to be sweeter, while green peppers have a more distinct, slightly bitter taste. When I want to add a vibrant pop of color and a variety of subtle flavors to my dish, I love to use a mix of different colored bell peppers!
Ground Beef: To keep this recipe wholesome and lighter, lean ground beef is highly recommended. It provides rich flavor without excessive fat. However, this recipe is incredibly adaptable! Feel free to substitute with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based meatless crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly alternative. The cooking time might vary slightly with different proteins.
Diced Tomatoes: Two cans of quality diced tomatoes are essential for this recipe. They contribute a juicy, tangy base and help create a flavorful sauce as the peppers bake. You can choose regular diced tomatoes, fire-roasted for a smoky depth, or even diced tomatoes with chilies for an extra kick.
Salt and Pepper: Sometimes, simplicity is key. For this easy recipe, good quality salt and freshly ground black pepper are often the only seasonings you need to bring out the natural deliciousness of the ingredients. Don’t underestimate their power to elevate the flavors!
Optional Additions to Enhance Flavor:
- Cheese: For a gooey, irresistible topping, feel free to add shredded cheese to this recipe. Mozzarella would be absolutely amazing, melting perfectly into the savory filling. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses are also fantastic options. Sprinkle it on top during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
- Spice: Craving a little heat? Serve your stuffed peppers with fresh jalapeño slices, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the filling, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Onion and Garlic: Sautéing some finely diced onion and minced garlic with the ground beef before stuffing can add a layer of aromatic depth to the flavor profile.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, or parsley can brighten up the flavors. Stir them into the beef and rice mixture.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce in the ground beef adds umami and richness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Peppers
What is the best rice for stuffed peppers?
The “best” rice truly depends on your preference and dietary goals! I personally lean towards brown rice because it offers a healthier, leaner profile with more fiber and nutrients compared to white rice. It also provides a satisfying, slightly chewy texture and a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. However, white rice is also a perfectly acceptable and popular choice, especially if you prefer a softer grain or need a quicker cooking option. If using white rice, ensure it’s fully cooked before stuffing to avoid a hard texture after baking.
Do you have to boil the peppers before stuffing them?
For this specific recipe, you do not need to cook or boil the bell peppers prior to stuffing them! This is a fantastic time-saver and contributes to the “easy” aspect of the dish. If you prefer your bell peppers to have a firmer, slightly crisper texture, stuffing them raw and letting them soften as they bake is the way to go. The long baking time ensures they become tender while retaining their structural integrity. Some recipes suggest a quick blanching or par-boiling for very soft peppers, but it’s entirely optional here!
How long does it take to bake stuffed peppers?
Baking stuffed peppers takes a bit of time, so plan accordingly to ensure a perfectly cooked meal. Since this recipe uses raw ground beef within the peppers, they will need approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours to bake thoroughly. This extended baking period is crucial to ensure the ground beef reaches a safe internal temperature (160°F or 71°C) and the peppers become wonderfully tender. Covering the baking dish helps to steam the peppers and cook the filling evenly, preventing them from drying out. Always check the internal temperature of the meat to guarantee doneness.
Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! Stuffed peppers are an excellent meal-prep option. You can assemble them completely (stuffing the peppers and arranging them in the baking dish) and then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes weeknight dinners incredibly convenient. Just add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
How do I store and reheat leftover stuffed peppers?
Leftover stuffed peppers are simply delicious! Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual servings until heated through, or place them back in a baking dish, cover, and warm in a preheated oven (around 350°F / 175°C) until hot, about 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make These Flavorful Stuffed Peppers
You’ll be amazed at how straightforward it is to prepare these mouthwatering stuffed peppers. This recipe is your ideal solution when you’re craving a wholesome, hearty meal with minimal effort and very few steps. It’s truly perfect for those bustling weeknights!
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to a steady 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). While the oven is heating, take your chosen covered baking dish and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the peppers and their delicious filling from sticking to the bottom and sides, ensuring an easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Cook the Rice and Layer the Pan
Next, prepare your rice according to the package directions. For an added boost of savory flavor, consider dissolving a bit of beef bouillon in the water you use to cook the rice – it makes a noticeable difference! Once cooked, transfer about half of the prepared rice to the bottom of your greased baking pan, spreading it evenly to form a comforting bed for your peppers.
Step 3: Arrange and Fill the Peppers with Beef
Carefully place your cored and cleaned bell peppers on top of the rice layer in the baking dish. If you’ve cut off the tops, set them aside for later. Now, generously fill each bell pepper cavity with the raw ground beef, ensuring you leave sufficient space at the top. This reserved space is essential for topping with more rice and the diced tomatoes later, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add More Rice and Extra Ground Beef
Now, take the remaining cooked rice and artfully add it to the tops of the beef-filled peppers, mounding it slightly. Any leftover rice can be distributed around the base of the peppers in the dish. Additionally, form any extra ground beef into small meatballs and tuck them in between the peppers in the pan. This ensures every bite of your meal is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 5: Season and Incorporate Tomatoes
Next, generously season the entire dish – the peppers, the rice, and any additional ground beef – with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This is where you build the foundational flavor. Finally, pour the two cans of diced tomatoes evenly over the tops of the stuffed peppers and the surrounding rice mixture. Their juices will infuse the dish with a rich, tangy depth as it bakes.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Baking
For good measure, give the peppers and the dish another light sprinkling of salt and pepper. Now, place the reserved tops of the bell peppers back onto their respective bases. Critically, cover your baking dish securely with its lid. (Remember to spray the underside of the lid with non-stick cooking spray too, to prevent sticking and ensure moisture retention!) Finally, transfer the covered dish to your preheated oven and bake for one and a half to two hours, or until the ground beef inside the peppers is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), and the peppers are fork-tender. The long, slow bake allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the ingredients to cook through perfectly.
Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and carefully uncover. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving piping hot, directly from the baking dish. The flavors will be robust and incredibly satisfying!
Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
If these delicious stuffed peppers have captured your culinary interest, don’t let this recipe slip away! Make sure to save it to your Pinterest board right now. You’ll definitely want to whip up this easy, healthy, and flavorful meal for dinner as soon as possible!
Troubleshooting and Serving Your Stuffed Peppers
Why are my stuffed peppers sometimes watery?
A common culprit for watery stuffed peppers is undercooked or overly moist rice within the filling. Bell peppers also release moisture as they cook. To prevent this, ensure your rice is prepared according to package directions and not over-hydrated before mixing it into the filling. Draining any excess liquid from the diced tomatoes can also help. The long baking time, especially when covered, usually allows any released moisture to be reabsorbed or evaporate, resulting in a perfectly cooked and flavorful interior.
What are the best accompaniments for stuffed peppers?
These stuffed peppers are incredibly satisfying on their own, as they encompass all the delicious and hearty ingredients needed for a complete meal. However, if you’re looking to round out your dinner with something extra, they pair wonderfully with a light and fresh side. Consider serving them with a vibrant pea salad with cauliflower for a crunch, a zesty Italian bean salad, or a refreshing cucumber tomato salad with yogurt dressing. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce would also be excellent choices.
Expert Tips for Crafting the BEST Stuffed Peppers
To ensure your stuffed peppers turn out perfectly every single time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Storage of Leftovers: Allow any remaining stuffed peppers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four to five days, making them excellent for meal prepping.
- Prevent Sticking on Lid: Don’t forget this small but important step! Lightly spray the inside of your baking dish lid with non-stick oil spray before placing it on top of the peppers. This prevents any cheese or filling from sticking to the lid as it bakes and helps retain moisture for tender peppers.
- Proper Pepper Preparation: Always ensure your bell peppers are thoroughly cored and cleaned before stuffing. Remove all seeds and any white membranes, as these can impart a bitter taste. A clean, smooth cavity makes stuffing easier and ensures an even cook.
- Even Cooking: Try to choose bell peppers of similar size so they cook uniformly. If you have a mix of sizes, the smaller ones might be done sooner.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the step of seasoning not just the filling but also the peppers themselves and the surrounding rice with salt and pepper. This layering of seasoning builds a richer overall flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: Leave about a half-inch of space at the top of each pepper. The rice can expand slightly as it absorbs moisture, and you’ll want room for the tomato topping without it overflowing.
- Customization: Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite seasonings or add a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or basil to the beef and rice mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
More Stuffed Pepper Recipes You’ll Adore!
As I’ve enthusiastically mentioned, I harbor a genuine obsession with all things “stuffed pepper”! The versatility of this concept allows for endless delicious creations. If you’ve enjoyed this classic version, I encourage you to delve into some of my other favorite variations. There’s a stuffed pepper dish for every craving!
- Stuffed Pepper Meatloaf (pictured above): A fantastic twist that brings all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers into a comforting meatloaf form.
- Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: Experience the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, but in a healthier, low-carb bell pepper vessel.
- Stuffed Pepper Casserole: All the delicious components of stuffed peppers deconstructed into an easy-to-make, family-friendly casserole.
- Stuffed Pepper Soup: Warm up with a hearty bowl of soup that captures the essence of classic stuffed peppers, perfect for a chilly day.
- Easy Stuffed Pepper Meatballs: Enjoy the flavors of stuffed peppers in convenient, bite-sized meatballs, ideal for appetizers or a fun dinner.
- Skillet with Stuffed Peppers: A quick and easy one-pan version that delivers all the great taste without the oven time.
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Print Recipe
Classic Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 4 cups prepared instant brown rice (or white rice can be used)
- 2 – 15 ounce cans diced tomatoes
- 6 large bell peppers (tops cut off, cored, and cleaned)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Optional: Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, a dash of beef bouillon for rice water.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a covered baking dish by spraying it thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray, including the inside of the lid.
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Prepare the rice according to its package instructions. For an enhanced savory depth, you can add a small amount of beef bouillon to the cooking water. Once cooked, spread approximately half of the prepared rice evenly across the bottom of your baking dish.
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Place the cored and cleaned bell peppers on the bed of rice in the dish, reserving their tops if you wish to use them. Fill each pepper cavity generously with raw lean ground beef, ensuring you leave about a half-inch of space at the top for the remaining ingredients.
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Take any remaining ground beef and roll it into small, bite-sized balls. Place these beef balls artfully around the peppers in the baking dish.
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Carefully spoon the rest of the cooked rice onto the tops of the stuffed peppers, allowing it to mound slightly. Distribute any further leftover rice around the peppers in the dish, filling in gaps.
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Season the entire dish generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial seasoning is crucial for building a rich flavor profile.
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Evenly pour the diced tomatoes over the tops of the stuffed peppers and all the rice and beef in the dish. Their juices will create a delicious sauce as the peppers bake.
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Season the dish once more with salt and pepper for maximum flavor. If you reserved the bell pepper tops, place them back onto their respective peppers. Securely cover the baking dish with its lid (which you’ve already sprayed to prevent sticking!).
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Bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. The peppers are done when the beef inside is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), and the bell peppers are tender. If adding cheese, sprinkle it on during the last 15-20 minutes of baking, uncovered, until melted and bubbly.
Nutrition
This beloved recipe was originally shared with our community on February 3, 2013. It has since been thoroughly updated and re-shared on June 1, 2021, to enhance user experience, provide clearer instructions, and add more valuable tips for preparing these fantastic stuffed peppers.
