Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty meal made with colorful peppers filled with a mix of rice, meat, cheese, and spices. They are easy to bake and look nice on the plate.
I like to fill mine with leftover cooked rice and veggies. My family always asks for seconds—they know they’re getting a hearty, cheese-topped treat!
I find that topping them with a little extra cheese and baking until golden makes them extra special—and perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bell Peppers: Use large, colorful bell peppers for a sweet, crisp bite. I like the red ones—they’re tastier and look pretty! If you prefer a milder flavor, green peppers work well. Remove seeds and membranes for less bitterness.
Ground Meat: Ground beef or turkey gives hearty flavor. For leaner options, go for turkey or chicken. I often use beef for richness, but chicken keeps it lighter. Just ensure it’s cooked through before stuffing!
Cooked Rice: Adds bulk and texture. Leftover rice works perfect, but quick-cooking rice is fine too. I sometimes swap in cooked quinoa for added protein or to make it gluten-free.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts nicely and adds gooeyness. I love using cheddar for a sharper taste, or Monterey Jack for something milder. For a creamy touch, sprinkle some ricotta on top before baking.
Tomato Sauce: Keeps everything moist and flavorful. Use canned or fresh, depending on what’s available. I sometimes mix in a teaspoon of Worcestershire for depth or a pinch of chili flakes for spice.
How do I stuff and bake the peppers evenly?
First, cut off the tops and remove seeds. Fill each pepper with the mixture, pressing down gently so they’re not overstuffed. Place in a baking dish upright, stand them sturdy, and cover with foil to keep the peppers moist.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Filling shouldn’t be overflowing — leave a little room at the top.
- Stand peppers upright in a baking dish with a bit of water or tomato sauce in the bottom for steam.
- Cover loosely with foil. Bake for 30-40 minutes until peppers are tender and filling is hot.
How to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
Filling
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Others
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 35 minutes | Total time: 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the peppers
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds. Rinse them and set aside.
2. Cook the filling
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Mix the stuffing
Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and half of the cheese into the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Stuff the peppers
Fill each pepper with the meat mixture. Place them in a baking dish.
5. Bake the peppers
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 5 more minutes.
