Colorful Stuffed Bell Peppers

Craving Stuffed Bell Peppers? Enjoy colorful peppers filled with seasoned ground beef and fluffy rice topped with melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights!

May 16, 2025
By Sandra.

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Brighten Up Your Table with Stuffed Bell Peppers

Oh my gosh, if you’re looking for a dinner that checks all the boxes, look no further than stuffed bell peppers ! imagine colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, fluffy brown rice, diced tomatoes , and topped with that ooey-gooey goodness of melty cheddar jack cheese .

Yup, this is a home run for weeknight dinners and even fancy enough for a dinner party!

A Taste of Tradition

This dish isn't just tasty; it's got history too! stuffed peppers have roots in many cultures, from the mediterranean to latin america.

It's a comforting, filling meal that brings families together, which is exactly what we need sometimes, right? plus, they're super easy and quick to whip up—perfect for busy weekdays.

Prep will take you only 10 minutes , and about 30 minutes in the oven gives you a total of 40 minutes for this complete meal! you’ll get 7 servings from this recipe, so it’s great if you’ve got a crowd or just want some killer leftovers.

Why These Peppers Stand Out

One of the top health benefits is the bell pepper itself. did you know that they are loaded with vitamin c? seriously, in fact, 1 medium pepper can provide you more than a day’s worth of this essential vitamin.

Plus, this meal appeals to everyone—whether you're a meat lover or vegetarian ensoiasts, it's easily adaptable!

These stuffed peppers are a fantastic choice for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy date night. it's the kind of dish that says, "hey, i care about you!" there’s something so special when the cheese is bubbling and the aroma fills your kitchen.

Trust me, nobody can resist indulging in this cheesy stuffed pepper delight.

What's in the Mix?

Before we dive into this scrumptious adventure, let’s gather our ingredients. you’ll need garden-fresh bell peppers, lean ground beef, and some pantry staples like brown rice and diced tomatoes.

The mix of tastes from the spices like smoked paprika and oregano turns this dish into something truly magical. the best part? most of these ingredients are already at home, making this an effortless easy dinner idea .

So, are you ready to make your kitchen smell like heaven? Let’s roll up those sleeves and start cooking!

Ingredients & Equipment for Stuffed Bell Peppers

Alright, my friends, let’s break down the essentials you'll need to whip up those mouthwatering Stuffed Bell Peppers . Trust me, these cheerful, colorful beauties will brighten up any dinner table and are perfect for weeknight dinners!

Main Ingredients

1. 7 large bell peppers (any color, just ditch the tops and hollow them out)
2. 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (or avocado oil—your choice!)
3. 1 medium onion , diced
4. 2-3 garlic cloves , minced (because, let’s be honest, garlic makes everything better)
5. 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef (that’s about 80/20 for a bit of fat for flavor)
6. 1½ cups (300g) cooked brown rice (makes it hearty!)
7. 1 can (14.5 ounces or 410g) diced tomatoes (juicy goodness)
8. 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for that rich flavor)
9. 1 teaspoon dried oregano (classic Italian vibes)
10. 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (or 2 teaspoons if you prefer it milder)
11. Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12. 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar jack cheese (the more, the merrier, right?)
13. Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (adds a pop of freshness!)

Seasoning Notes

Now, seasoning is where the magic happens! Here are some must-haves:

• Essential Flavors: Always have salt , pepper , and smoked paprika on hand. They elevate your meal!
• Quick Substitutions: No tomato paste? Use a bit of ketchup (emergency recipe hack).
• Spice Combinations: Want it spicy? Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.

Equipment Needed

Let’s chat tools—you don’t need fancy gadgets here. Just the essentials:

• A large skillet for sautéing (you really can't go wrong with a good skillet).
• A baking dish or rimmed baking sheet for your stuffed beauties. Make sure it’s deep enough to keep those peppers stable!
• A wooden spoon to mix everything up—classic and sturdy.
• A sharp knife for coring your peppers (be careful—those things can be tricky!).
• Measuring cups and spoons because eyeballing can be a disaster in cooking.

And that’s it! seriously, with these ingredients and tools, you’re well on your way to creating those cheesy stuffed peppers that will make your family gather around the table like it’s one of those cozy family gathering scenes in movies.

Now, get cooking, and don’t forget to let those peppers rest a bit after baking—they’ll be even tastier, trust me! Happy cooking!

Cooking Method for Colorful Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ah, stuffed bell peppers! they’re like edible little treasure chests, full of flavor, and totally classy for any dinner table.

If you’re aiming for a family-friendly meal or an easy dinner idea for a busy weeknight, this recipe is a winner.

Plus, they’re colorful, nutritious, and you'll feel like a kitchen superstar when you whip these up!

Prep Steps

Mise en place is your bestie when cooking! gather your ingredients first. chop your onions, mince your garlic, and don’t forget to hollow those bell peppers! you’ll be thanking yourself later when it’s time to cook.

Organization : Keep everything handy! Set out your skillet, baking dish, and measuring cups. Trust me, grabbing like a pro will save you time.

And, hey! Safety first : When chopping, keep those fingers tucked in and watch out for that sharp knife. We want delicious food, not a trip to the ER!

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preheat your oven to 375° F . Now’s the time to set the mood by blasting your favorite tunes!
2. Prepare your bell peppers : Cut off the tops and scoop out the insides. Place them cut-side up in your baking dish. They’ll be your little flavor vessels!
3. Sauté your aromatics : Heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft—about 3- 4 minutes . Toss in the minced garlic for just another minute.
4. Brown the beef : Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart. Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5- 6 minutes . Drain excess fat if there’s a lot.
5. Mix in the filling : Stir in 1½ cups cooked brown rice , a can of diced tomatoes , and all your spices. Let it simmer for about 4- 5 minutes . Season with salt and pepper.
6. Stuff the peppers : Use a spoon to fill each pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Don’t overstuff, but fill 'em nicely!
7. Bake your peppers : Pop them in the oven for 10- 12 minutes . You want them soft but still standing strong.
8. Add cheese : Sprinkle on about 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese and bake for another 5- 7 minutes until bubbly and golden. That’s when the magic happens!

Visual cue : Look for that cheese to start bubbling and getting a little crispy around the edges—pure heaven!

Pro Tips

• Spice it up : Want a kick? Toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the beef mix!
• Avoid mushiness : Be careful not to over-bake! You're aiming for tender peppers, not mushy ones that fall apart.
• Make ahead : These peppers freeze like a dream! Make a double batch, and you’ll have easy meals ready in a pinch.

So, whether you’re cooking for your family or having friends over for a cozy dinner party, these stuffed bell peppers are easy to make, bursting with flavor, and oh-so-satisfying.

Trust me, once you try them, the whole crew will be asking for these colorful little beauties on repeat!

Recipe Notes for Colorful Stuffed Bell Peppers

Serving Suggestions

Alright, so you've just whipped up these stuffed bell peppers packed with a savory blend of ground beef, fluffy brown rice, diced tomatoes, and topped with melty cheddar jack cheese.

Just imagine the colorful display on your dinner table! for a little flair, serve them with a refreshing side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette; it adds a nice, crisp contrast.

If you wanna keep it classic, some buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every delicious bite. trust me; your family will love it!

A chilled glass of iced tea or a traditional lemonade pairs nicely with these beauties, making your golden hour at the dinner table extra special.

Seriously, who doesn’t love a good homemade meal with refreshing sips on the side?

Storage Tips

Now, let’s talk leftovers! if you happen to have some satisfying stuffed peppers left (or if you're thinking ahead for meal prep), they store really well.

Pack those bad boys in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge for up to 3 days . want to make them stretch longer? you can freeze them for up to 3 months .

Just let them cool down before you tuck them away!

When you're ready to dig back in, defrost them in the fridge overnight and reheat them in the oven at 350° f until heated through, or microwave them for a quick convenience fix.

Just don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before reheating for that gooey goodness!

Variations

Feeling creative? spice up stuffed peppers with some seasonal ingredients. you could swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a gluten-free option or just want to keep it light.

If you’ve got zucchini or corn knocking about, toss those into the filling too; they add great texture!

For an exciting twist, try using quinoa in place of brown rice. it’s a protein powerhouse and complements the peppers beautifully.

You could also try adding a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the beef mix for a fun tex-mex vibe!

Nutrition Basics

Let’s break it down: each stuffed bell pepper comes in at 262 calories , packed with 21 grams of protein —hello, healthy dinner! plus, these colorful guys are full of vitamins a and c from those vibrant bell peppers.

Each bite is a nourishing family meal that supports your overall health. the beauty of this dish is that it’s not just good for you; it’s also comfort food done right.

Conclusion

So there you have it! colorful, hearty, and utterly satisfying. these stuffed bell peppers are perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or your next dinner party .

With just a bit of prep, you'll have a flavorsome, hearty meal that’ll have everyone raving. whether you stick with the classic recipe or spice it up with your own twists, they’re sure to become one of your go-to easy dinner ideas .

Grab your apron, whip some up, and enjoy the deliciousness!

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Colorful Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe Card

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Preparation time:10 Mins

Cooking time:30 Mins

Servings:7 servings

Ingredients:

• 7 large bell peppers, tops removed and cores hollowed out
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1½ cups cooked brown rice
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the cores and seeds. Place the hollowed-out peppers cut side up in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute more.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in the cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Cook for about 4-5 minutes.
5. Using a spoon, fill each hollowed-out bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Pack the filling in gently but don’t press too firmly.
6. Place the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the peppers begin to soften.
7. Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar jack cheese over each stuffed pepper. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
8. Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.