Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers because they’re not just eye-catching, but they also pack a punch of flavor in every bite. The bell peppers serve as a beautiful, edible vessel filled with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a medley of spices. Preparing them is a fun family activity where we can each personalize our own peppers. Plus, these stuffed peppers are great for meal prep and can be easily stored for later, making them a convenient choice for busy weeks.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:09:35.571Z

When I first made Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers, I was amazed at how easy they were to prepare and how the flavors melded together. The combination of ground beef and rice really makes the filling hearty, while the bell peppers add a refreshing crunch. Using brown rice instead of white offers a nutty flavor and extra nutrients, which is something I've come to love in this dish.

One tip I learned is to pre-roast the bell peppers for about 10 minutes before stuffing them. This softens the peppers just enough so they can absorb the juices from the filling while baking, resulting in a tender, delicious bite every time. Definitely a game changer for achieving the perfect texture!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful presentation that brightens any meal
Flavor-packed filling with a perfect blend of spices
Perfectly cooked peppers with a delightful crunch

      

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, look for ones that are firm, bright, and free from blemishes. A mix of colors can make your dish visually appealing, but ensure that they are all roughly the same size for even cooking. If you find peppers with soft spots or wrinkles, they may not hold their shape during baking, leading to subpar results.

Green bell peppers provide a slightly more bitter flavor compared to their red or yellow counterparts, which are sweeter and more flavorful. Depending on your preference, you can mix different colors for a balance of flavors. For a lower-carb alternative, try using halved zucchini or eggplant as a vessel.

The Importance of Flavor Balance

In this stuffed pepper recipe, the combination of spices plays a critical role in elevating the overall flavor. Chili powder brings heat, while cumin adds warmth and earthiness. Don't hesitate to adjust the spice levels based on your personal preference; for instance, adding smoked paprika can enhance depth, and a dash of cayenne pepper can ramp up the heat if desired.

Also, the addition of diced tomatoes not only contributes moisture to the filling but also enhances the flavor profile with acidity. For a twist, you could use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor or even fresh tomatoes in season. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

These stuffed peppers are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Even better, you can stuff the peppers and refrigerate them (unbaked) up to 24 hours ahead. When you're ready to eat, just pop them in the oven, adjusting cooking time as necessary since they’ll start cold.

If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes until heated through.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Optional Garnishes

Fresh parsley, chopped
Hot sauce

Instructions

Prep the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Optionally, roast them in the oven for 10 minutes to soften.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat.

Mix the Ingredients

Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper. Top with shredded cheese if desired.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Serving Suggestion

Serve the stuffed peppers on a bed of fresh greens for a delightful presentation.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding some chopped olives or jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also experiment with different grains like quinoa for a fun twist!

Serving Suggestions

These Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers make a great main dish, but you can pair them with various sides for a more substantial meal. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the filling. You could also serve them alongside roasted vegetables or a side of quinoa for added texture and nutrients.

For a crowd-pleasing addition, consider serving them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top. Fresh herbs like cilantro or chopped green onions could also be sprinkled for added flavor and color. This customizable nature makes them versatile enough for family dinners or even potlucks.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stuffed peppers seem undercooked after the suggested baking time, this might be due to variations in oven temperature. Always check the peppers for doneness; they should be tender yet still hold their shape. If they need more time, cover them with foil to prevent burning while allowing the filling to heat through.

Alternatively, if your filling is overly dry, it could be due to overcooking the beef or insufficient moisture from the tomatoes. If you find this happening, adding a splash of broth or a bit more tomato sauce in the filling can help before stuffing the peppers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work great in this recipe.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for later enjoyment.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can stuff the peppers a day in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What sides pair well with stuffed peppers?

A simple green salad or some roasted vegetables complement the flavors wonderfully!