Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Sweet bell peppers filled with seasoned rice, ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese, then baked until tender for a hearty family dinner.

This approachable recipe uses everyday ingredients and clear steps to help you prepare a flavorful homemade meal. Read through the method before starting, prep the ingredients, and adjust seasoning to suit your taste.

Why you’ll love this recipe

It is practical for a home kitchen, easy to serve, and flexible enough for simple ingredient swaps. For the best result, prepare the ingredients before cooking and taste the dish before serving.

Ingredients

Gather and measure the following ingredients before you begin.

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1/2 lb (225 g) lean ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes, divided
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice tops from peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Stand them in a baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook onion for 3–4 minutes, add garlic, then brown ground beef until no pink remains.
3. Stir in cooked rice, 3/4 cup tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and mix in half the cheese.
4. Fill peppers with the mixture. Spoon remaining tomatoes over the tops and cover the dish loosely with foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, remove foil, add remaining cheese, and bake another 10–15 minutes until peppers are tender and the filling reaches 160°F (71°C).

Tips for the best results

• Cut ingredients into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
• Season in stages and taste before serving; ingredient brands and salt levels vary.
• Use a food thermometer for meat and poultry rather than relying on color alone.
• For substitutions, expect that texture and cooking time may change slightly.

Serving ideas

Serve freshly prepared while the texture and flavor are at their best. Add a simple green salad, seasonal vegetables, or bread where appropriate to round out the meal.

Storage and reheating

Refrigerate perishable leftovers promptly in a clean, covered container. As a general food-safety guideline, use cooked leftovers within 3–4 days and reheat thoroughly. Keep sauces and salads separate when that helps preserve texture.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this recipe ahead?

You can measure and prep many ingredients in advance. For best texture, cook delicate components close to serving time and store raw ingredients safely in the refrigerator.

How do I adjust the seasoning?

Start with the listed amounts, taste near the end, then add salt, pepper, herbs, or acidity a little at a time.

Recipe notes

Cooking times are estimates and may vary with equipment, ingredient size, and kitchen conditions. Follow reliable food-safety guidance for meat, eggs, and other perishable ingredients.

Recipe by Imad Limrani · Browse more recipes