Description

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe features tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of lean ground beef, brown rice, tomatoes, and flavorful spices, all topped with melted cheddar jack cheese. Perfect for a comforting and balanced weeknight dinner, this baked dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Aromatics

7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)
1 Medium Onion (diced)
2–3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Main Ingredients

1 pound Lean Ground Beef
1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice
14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can)
1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste

Spices & Seasonings

1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
2 teaspoons Paprika
Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)

Dairy & Oils

2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared bell peppers upright, cut side up, in a baking dish or rimmed tray to get ready for stuffing and baking.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
Cook Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pan and cook until it turns no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon for about 5-6 minutes to ensure even browning and cooking.
Add Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in the cooked brown rice, canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients well.
Simmer Filling: Continue cooking the mixture for another 4-5 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces and thickens. Taste and season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper according to your preference.
Stuff Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, filling them generously but without overpacking.
Bake Peppers: Place the stuffed peppers in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the peppers become mostly tender but still hold their shape.
Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese on top of each pepper. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and turned slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful, nutritious meal!

Notes

Using brown rice adds a nutty flavor and additional fiber compared to white rice.
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the paprika.
Bell pepper varieties such as red, yellow, or orange can be used for sweeter flavor profiles, while green peppers offer a more robust taste.
If preferred, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
Leftover filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, ground beef recipe, baked stuffed peppers, easy dinner, healthy stuffed peppers