Stuffed bell peppers are a wholesome, comforting dish filled with seasoned ground beef, nutritious brown rice, and savory tomato sauce. These colorful peppers are baked to perfection, making them a great weeknight meal or meal prep option. Plus, they’re easy to customize to your taste preferences!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Nutritious & Balanced: High in protein and fiber.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for leftovers and freezing.
- Customizable: Use different proteins, grains, and seasonings.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun way to enjoy vegetables.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Bell Peppers (Any Color) – A healthy, edible vessel.
- Ground Beef (or Turkey/Chicken) – A hearty protein base.
- Brown Rice – Adds fiber and texture.
- Onion & Garlic – Enhances flavor.
- Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes – Creates a rich filling.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth.
- Cheese (Optional) – For a melty topping.
- Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Italian Herbs, Paprika) – Boosts taste.
Equipment Used
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon for stuffing
Directions & Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Add onions and garlic; cook until soft. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix in cooked brown rice.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Place them in a baking dish.
Step 4: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, top with cheese (if using), and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Let cool slightly, then serve warm with your favorite sides.
Nutritional Information
Each stuffed bell pepper contains:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
A well-balanced meal packed with essential nutrients!
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Low-Carb: Substitute brown rice with cauliflower rice.
- Vegan Option: Use lentils or plant-based meat instead of beef.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Mexican-Inspired: Use taco seasoning and top with avocado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat all work well.
Pro Tips by Elisa
- Pre-Cook the Peppers for a softer texture.
- Drain Excess Liquid to prevent soggy stuffing.
- Use Fresh Herbs for added flavor.
- Make Extra & Freeze for a quick future meal.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: A light and fresh pairing.
- With Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Adds extra nutrients.
- With a Yogurt-Based Dip: A cooling contrast to the savory filling.
This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Brown Rice recipe is a must-try for a nutritious, flavorful meal. Enjoy!
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Brown Rice
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon for stuffing
Ingredients
- Bell Peppers Any Color – A healthy, edible vessel.
- Ground Beef or Turkey/Chicken – A hearty protein base.
- Brown Rice – Adds fiber and texture.
- Onion & Garlic – Enhances flavor.
- Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes – Creates a rich filling.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth.
- Cheese Optional – For a melty topping.
- Seasonings Salt, Pepper, Italian Herbs, Paprika – Boosts taste.
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Cook the Filling
- In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Add onions and garlic; cook until soft. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix in cooked brown rice.
- Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
- Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Place them in a baking dish.
- Step 4: Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, top with cheese (if using), and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes.
- Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm with your favorite sides.