Name: Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); Spices: paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper

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It’s time to meet your new favorite dish—stuffed stuffed peppers beef Picture this: vibrant bell peppers bursting at the seams with juicy ground beef, aromatic herbs, and just the right amount of cheese melting on top. The scent wafting from your kitchen will have your family flocking in like it’s a scene from a cooking show. You might even hear angels singing as you take that first bite.

I remember the first time I made these beauties; my kitchen looked like a colorful explosion of veggies! Friends and family had gathered for game night, and I thought I’d impress them with something healthy yet indulgent. Little did I know that these stuffed bell peppers would steal the show—and our hearts!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These incredible stuffed bell peppers are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor
They look stunning on any dinner table and can be customized based on what you have in your fridge
Plus, they’re perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd

I once prepared these stuffed bell peppers for a potluck, and let me tell you: they disappeared faster than a magician’s rabbit.

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 visual appeal and sweetness.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while maintaining that juicy flavor.
Cooked Rice: Leftover rice works great here; it adds texture while soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Diced Tomatoes: Opt for canned tomatoes with herbs for an extra flavor boost without any fuss.
Onion: Fresh onions bring sweetness; sauté them until translucent for the best results.
Garlic: Mince fresh garlic cloves to infuse the filling with aromatic goodness.
Cheese: Shredded cheese melts beautifully on top; use mozzarella or cheddar based on your preference.
Spices: Seasoning is key; consider paprika, cumin, or Italian herbs for that extra zing!

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds. Set aside like colorful little hats waiting to be filled.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and onions are translucent—this will make your kitchen smell divine.

Add Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef to the skillet. Cook thoroughly until browned and crumbled nicely; drain excess fat if necessary. Add some salt and pepper for good measure.

Mix in Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in cooked rice and diced tomatoes into the mixture along with spices of choice. Let simmer for about five minutes so flavors meld together beautifully.

Stuff Those Peppers: Take each bell pepper and stuff them generously with the savory mixture until they’re overflowing—like they just hit the buffet line at their favorite restaurant!

Bake to Perfection: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, then bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

And there you have it! A dish so delightful that even your pickiest eater will be begging for seconds (or thirds).

So gather your loved ones around the table because nothing says “family bonding” like sharing plates of cheesy goodness. Enjoy every bite of these amazing stuffed bell peppers—your taste buds will thank you!

You Must Know

Stuffed bell peppers with ground beef create a symphony of flavors, combining savory meat, spices, and fresh vegetables
Make sure to enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake
This dish is perfect for meal prep, too!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the ground beef with onions and garlic until browned. Then, prepare your peppers while you cook rice or quinoa simultaneously. This ensures everything is ready to assemble and bake together.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or even a vegetarian option like lentils. Experiment with different cheese types or add fresh herbs for a personal twist that reflects your culinary style.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through to maintain their deliciousness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked stuffed bell peppers, ensure they are tender but not mushy
Use a mix of spices to elevate flavor profiles
Don’t skip pre-cooking rice or quinoa; it saves time during assembly and baking

Sharing my first attempt at stuffed bell peppers reminds me of my cousin’s raised eyebrows when she tasted them—she thought I could only boil water! The laughter around the table was priceless.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat for stuffed bell peppers ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins work great as alternatives.

What can I serve with stuffed bell peppers ground beef?

Pair your dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

How can I prevent my stuffed bell peppers from getting soggy?

Avoid overcooking the filling and use thick sauces sparingly to keep them firm and delicious.