Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef And 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 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Recipes

I love making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers because they are a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a tender pepper filled with savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a medley of spices. This dish is not only hearty but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings. I find that the fresh herbs really elevate the flavor profile, giving a fresh twist to this classic recipe. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a complete meal in a single, colorful package.

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:05:36.797Z

Making stuffed peppers has always been a family favorite in my home. I remember the first time I tried a recipe that involved sautéing the beef with onions and garlic before mixing it with rice and spices—it made such a difference in flavor! The sweet bell peppers provide a beautiful contrast to the richness of the filling, making each bite satisfying.

One tip I’ve learned is to bake the stuffed peppers in a covered dish during the first half of cooking time. This method helps to steam the peppers, ensuring they are perfectly tender while the flavors meld together beautifully. You can also customize the filling by adding vegetables or switching to ground turkey for a lighter option!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful presentation that brightens up any meal
Savory stuffed mixture that’s adaptable to your taste
Perfect make-ahead option for busy nights

Understanding Flavor Balance

The harmony between the savory ground beef and the sweetness of the bell peppers creates an unforgettable flavor experience. By incorporating spices like paprika and oregano, you not only amplify the taste but also add depth to the dish. The combination of cooked rice serves as a neutral base, soaking up the juices from the filling and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. This balance is key to making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers a standout dish.

If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adjusting the spice levels. Adding red pepper flakes can introduce a hint of heat, while swapping oregano for fresh basil gives the recipe a lighter, more aromatic profile. Remember to taste the filling as you go; it should be well-seasoned before being stuffed into the peppers, as the cooking process will enhance the flavors but won’t compensate for seasoning errors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Make-ahead meals take the stress out of dinner prep. You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just ensure they cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal at any time without the hassle of cooking from scratch.

When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven rather than a microwave for the best texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 20 minutes. For a bubbly cheese topping, uncover for the last 5-10 minutes. This method helps to keep the peppers tender and the filling warm while achieving a nice golden finish on any cheese.

Ingredients

Stuffed Peppers Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Feel free to use leftover rice or other ground meats as substitutes!

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant. Stir in ground beef, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned. Mix in cooked rice and diced tomatoes.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each prepared pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it lightly. If desired, top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top!

Pro Tips

For a bit of heat, add minced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

In case you want to lighten the dish, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. They provide a similar texture and absorb flavors well, though they might need a bit more seasoning. Additionally, you can substitute brown rice for white rice to increase fiber content and enhance the overall nutrient profile. Quinoa is another great option, adding a distinct nuttiness to the filling.

For those following a vegetarian diet, you can replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute like tempeh. This maintains the heartiness of the recipe while catering to specific dietary preferences. Adding chopped vegetables such as zucchini and mushrooms can enrich the stuffing further, providing an array of textures and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers are delightful on their own but can be elevated with a few simple accompaniments. A side salad of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish. For a complete meal experience, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a simple pasta dish to soak up any extra juices.

To enhance the visual appeal, garnish the stuffed peppers with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. A squeeze of lime or lemon can bring a burst of brightness that complements the savory flavors beautifully. Don’t forget to serve any extra shredded cheese on the side for guests who want an additional cheesy touch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the peppers and filling ahead of time, then bake them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for rice?

Quinoa or cauliflower rice are great alternatives if you're looking for a low-carb option.

→ Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use lentils or black beans instead of beef and add more vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.