There’s something about stuffed peppers that evokes warmth and nostalgia. Growing up, my family would make this dish for cozy weeknight dinners, where everyone gathered at the table with eager plates and hearty appetites. These vibrant bell peppers filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, and gooey cheese prove to be more than just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors and a perfect way to sneak in veggies for the kids. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into crafting these delicious stuffed peppers that are destined to become a staple in your home.
Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Vibrant bell peppers filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, and gooey cheese, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers, any color
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, small diced
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon no salt added Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 ½ cups cooked long grain rice
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- ⅓ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian cheese blend, divided
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly spray a high-sided 9×13 baking dish with olive oil cooking spray.
- Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Slice each bell pepper in half from top to bottom, removing the seeds and membranes. Arrange them cut-side-up in the dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, diced onions, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Incorporate the ground beef, season with ½ teaspoon salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Remove from heat and stir in the remaining marinara sauce, cooked rice, parsley, parmesan cheese, and ½ cup of the Italian cheese mixture until well combined.
- Generously fill each pepper half with about a heaping ½ cup of the beef and rice mixture. Top each pepper with the remaining ½ cup of Italian cheese blend.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, try sautéing diced mushrooms or spinach with the onions. Top with panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Dish
When it comes to weeknight meals, this recipe checks all the boxes. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze. A delightful merge of protein, carbs, and veggies, stuffed peppers are perfect for any occasion—from lazy Sundays to festive gatherings. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can easily adapt the fillings based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.
“This stuffed pepper recipe has become a family favorite for us! It’s quick to make, and we love how customizable it is!” – Julie M.
Step-by-Step
Before we jump into the ingredients, here’s a quick preview of what to expect:
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min
You’ll start by preparing the peppers and the savory filling, followed by assembling everything into a baking dish. After a brief bake covered with foil, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying meal served right from the oven.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a rundown of all the ingredients you’ll need to create this hearty dish:
- 4 bell peppers, any color
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, small diced
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon no salt added Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 ½ cups cooked long grain rice
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- ⅓ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian cheese blend, divided
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative if you prefer.
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F, and lightly spray a high-sided 9×13 baking dish with olive oil cooking spray.
- Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish to create a tasty base for your peppers.
- Slice each bell pepper in half from top to bottom, removing the seeds and membranes. Arrange them cut-side-up in the dish.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, diced onions, and ¼ teaspoon salt, cooking for about 3-5 minutes or until the onions soften.
- Incorporate the ground beef into the skillet and season with ½ teaspoon salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Remove from heat and stir in the remaining marinara sauce, cooked rice, parsley, parmesan cheese, and ½ cup of the Italian cheese mixture until well combined.
- Generously fill each pepper half with about a heaping ½ cup of the beef and rice mixture. Top each pepper with the remaining ½ cup of Italian cheese blend.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
For a beautiful presentation, place each stuffed pepper on a plate, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of marinara sauce. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your stuffed peppers fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their life, consider freezing them before baking—simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Helpful Cooking Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, try sautéing some diced mushrooms or spinach along with the onions. You can also top the peppers with panko breadcrumbs before baking to add a delightful crunch.
Creative Twists
Want to switch things up? Experiment by using different grains like quinoa or farro in place of rice, or incorporate black beans for added fiber. You could also create a spicy version by adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese.
FAQs
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of beans and lentils for a vegetarian option.
How long do the leftovers last?
Stuffed peppers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day ahead, then just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
With each vibrant layer and fulfilling bite, these ground beef stuffed peppers promise to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!