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, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Cooking

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers because they are not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of flavorful ground beef, savory rice, and fresh peppers creates a meal that feels wholesome and comforting. Plus, they’re versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients I have on hand. Every time I make these stuffed peppers, I find joy in the process of prepping, stuffing, and watching them bake beautifully in the oven. It's a dish that brings both warmth and happiness to our dinner table.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:01:36.242Z

Making Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers was a challenge I took on one weekend. I was looking for something that would please the whole family, and these peppers fit the bill perfectly. I carefully cooked the beef with spices before mixing it with fluffy rice, and the vibrant colors of the peppers made it all the more appealing.

One trick I discovered was to slightly steam the pepper halves before stuffing them. This ensures they become tender during baking while still holding their shape, creating a deliciously juicy bite. These little tips transformed my simple meal into a delicious celebration!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flavor-packed filling that’s comforting and hearty
Vibrant colors that brighten up your dinner table
Easy to customize based on your favorite ingredients
A complete meal all in one dish!

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for your stuffed peppers, it's essential to choose ones that are firm and unblemished. Colors like red, yellow, or green are all excellent choices based on your preference. If you're looking for a sweeter flavor, opt for red or yellow varieties. Remember to trim the tops neatly so they fit back on without any gaps later, which helps retain moisture while baking.

If you prefer a twist on the classic, consider using poblano or Anaheim peppers instead of standard bell peppers. These varieties add a mild heat and unique depth of flavor, making your dish even more interesting. Ensure they are large enough to hold the filling without tearing, and they should be roasted lightly before stuffing to enhance their flavors.

Customizing Your Filling

The filling for these stuffed peppers is highly versatile. You can swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken if you're looking for a leaner option, or even substitute with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version. If you’re short on cooked rice, quinoa or couscous can work beautifully as a nutritious alternative, adding different textures to the dish.

Adding black beans, corn, or chopped spinach to the filling not only boosts nutritional value but also adds color and flavor complexity. Feel free to experiment with spices; for a smoky flavor, a bit of paprika or smoked paprika can make your dish stand out. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, especially if you're adding different fillings or ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious experience:

Ingredients

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

These ingredients combine beautifully for a hearty meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. If desired, lightly steam them for 5 minutes to soften before stuffing.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Stuff and Bake

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, packing it tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy your hearty meal!

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Rice Stuffed Peppers!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different spices and cheeses to customize the filling to your taste. You can also use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a unique twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

One great advantage of stuffed peppers is their make-ahead potential. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, which not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For quicker baking, consider prepping the peppers by cutting and cleaning them without stuffing, storing them in an airtight container until you're ready to assemble.

If you decide to freeze the stuffed peppers, it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, take them out the night before to thaw in the fridge, and bake them as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed peppers can be a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with sides. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the hearty filling. Alternatively, some crusty bread or garlic knots can be delightful for sopping up any saucy remnants from the peppers. If you're feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top can elevate the flavors even further.

For a fun serving twist, try serving them in a sauce. A light tomato sauce can be drizzled over the top before baking, adding extra moisture and flavor. Consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to your sauce for a bit of heat, balancing the sweetness of the peppers beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and keep them in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken, or use beans and vegetables for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, stuffed peppers can be frozen. Bake them and let them cool completely before wrapping tightly and storing in the freezer for up to three months.

→ How do I know when the stuffed peppers are done?

They are done when the peppers are tender and the filling reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).