Name: Delicious Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste

In a world where dinner can often feel like a chore, stuffed bell peppers filled with ground beef come in to save the day. Picture this: vibrant green, red, or yellow bell peppers cradling a savory mix of seasoned ground beef, rice, and aromatic spices. The moment you pull them from the oven, your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that promises a flavor experience like no other.

Remember the time when your friend challenged you to cook something that would impress their picky eater sibling? Well, these stuffed bell peppers not only won over their hearts but also made for an unforgettable family dinner. Who knew a simple vegetable could be so charming?

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These flavorful stuffed bell peppers are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
They offer a satisfying meal packed with protein and veggies
Visually stunning, they’ll brighten up any dinner table
Enjoy these versatile beauties as a main dish or a delightful side!

I still chuckle when I think about the first time I made these for my family; my nephew declared it his new favorite food on his very first bite.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bell Peppers: Choose firm, colorful peppers; they add both flavor and visual appeal.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for lower fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Cooked Rice: Leftover rice works perfectly—just make sure it’s fluffy!
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to your filling.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the taste; don’t skimp on it!
Tomato Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for added richness.
Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates that gooey finish we all love.
Spices (Italian seasoning, salt & pepper): These essential seasonings bring everything together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking later on.

Prepare the Peppers: Slice the tops off your bell peppers and remove the seeds carefully. Set them aside while you prepare the filling.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do it!

Cook the Beef Filling: Add ground beef to your skillet along with Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked through; drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Rice and Sauce: Mix in cooked rice and tomato sauce into your skillet. Stir well until everything is combined beautifully; let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Stuff Your Peppers!: Spoon generous amounts of the beef mixture into each pepper until they’re overflowing. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Add Cheese and Bake!: Top each pepper generously with shredded cheese before covering with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly!

And there you have it! Your house will smell amazing as you serve these hearty stuffed bell peppers filled with flavorful ground beef. Grab your fork and dig in!

You Must Know

Stuffed bell peppers with ground beef are not just delicious; they are a visual feast
The vibrant colors of the peppers and the mouthwatering aroma of the filling make them irresistible
Plus, they are perfect for meal prep or family dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the ground beef until it’s browned. Then, prepare the rice while seasoning the beef mix. Finally, stuff the bell peppers and bake them until tender.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for an extra flavor kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a delicious filling, use leftover rice or quinoa as a base
Make sure to season well and taste your mixture before stuffing
Cooking time varies based on pepper size, so check for doneness frequently

Sometimes, I find my kids fighting over who gets to finish off the last stuffed pepper! That’s when I know I’ve created something special that everyone loves.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully in stuffed bell peppers.

How long do stuffed bell peppers take to cook?

Typically, they need about 25-30 minutes at 350°F until tender.

Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.